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Hydroelectric Power Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

St Anthony Hospital

Power Plant Operator

Lakewood, CO · On-site

$26.82 - $44.26/hr

Job Summary and Responsibilities As our Power Plant Operator at St. Anthony Hospital in Lakewood Colorado, you will help ensure a safe and comfortable environment for patients, staff, and visitors by ...

JCSI

Power Plant Operator

Long Island City, NY · On-site

$50.60 - $55.30/hr

Plant Operator - Power Generation Facility | Queens, NY Location: Long Island City, Queens, NY Pay Range: $50.60 - $55.30/hour Schedule : 12-hour rotating shifts, 5-week modified DuPont schedule ...

St Anthony Hospital

Power Plant Operator

Lakewood, CO

$26.82 - $44.26/hr

Job Summary and Responsibilities As our Power Plant Operator at St. Anthony Hospital in Lakewood Colorado, you will help ensure a safe and comfortable environment for patients, staff, and visitors by ...

City of Pasadena, CA

Power Plant Operator

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$101K - $120K/yr

Under direction from the Power Plant Control Operator, operates steam and gas turbo-electric generators; operates compressors, chillers and other equipment. * Makes routine rounds and inspects ...

City of Pasadena

Power Plant Operator

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$101K - $120K/yr

The Pasadena Water and Power Department is seeking a Power Plant Operator to perform journey-level duties in the safe and efficient operation of simple and combined cycle gas turbines, main and ...

Open Mountain Energy

Power Plant Operator

Winnemucca, NV · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

... power plants. Geothermal energy experience a plus, however, excellent work ethic, reliability ... Used prescribed plant operating procedures to conduct efficient and effective plant uptime while ...

mkecounty

Power Plant Operator - CRC

Franklin, WI · On-site

$32.01 - $48.01/hr

Power Plant Operator Department: Community Reintegration Center Full-time, Hourly Hourly Range $32.01 - $48.01/hr Job Summary: The Power Plant Operator ensures an efficient and safe operation of the ...

mkecounty

Power Plant Operator - CRC

Franklin, WI · On-site

$32.01 - $48.01/hr

Power Plant Operator Department: Community Reintegration Center Full-time, Hourly Hourly Range $32.01 - $48.01/hr Job Summary: The Power Plant Operator ensures an efficient and safe operation of the ...

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Hydroelectric Power Plant Operator information

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$20

$44

$63

How much do hydroelectric power plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydroelectric power plant operator in the United States is $44.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.05 and $58.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a hydroelectric power plant operator do?

A Hydroelectric Power Plant Operator is responsible for controlling and monitoring the equipment that generates electricity at hydroelectric power stations. Their duties include starting and stopping turbines, adjusting water flow and voltage, monitoring instruments for performance and safety, and performing routine maintenance checks. They ensure that the plant operates efficiently and safely while responding to any operational issues that arise. Hydroelectric operators also record data, follow safety protocols, and may assist with troubleshooting mechanical or electrical problems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a hydroelectric power plant operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hydroelectric Power Plant Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, electrical knowledge, and understanding of power generation processes, often supported by a high school diploma or associate degree in a related field. Familiarity with SCADA systems, turbine controls, and safety protocols, as well as certifications such as OSHA, are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently or in teams are important soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of hydroelectric facilities.

What are some common challenges faced by hydroelectric power plant operators, and how can they be managed?

Hydroelectric Power Plant Operators often encounter challenges such as responding quickly to unexpected equipment malfunctions, managing fluctuating water levels due to weather changes, and coordinating with grid operators to meet variable electricity demand. Effective management involves thorough knowledge of safety protocols, regular preventive maintenance, and strong communication skills for team coordination. Staying updated on technological advancements in control systems can also help operators handle these challenges efficiently and ensure continuous, safe plant operations.

What is the difference between Hydroelectric Power Plant Operator vs Hydroelectric Maintenance Technician?

AspectHydroelectric Power Plant OperatorHydroelectric Maintenance Technician
Primary RoleOperate and monitor hydroelectric plant equipment to generate electricityPerform maintenance, repairs, and troubleshooting on hydroelectric equipment
Required CertificationsOperator licenses, technical certificationsTechnical certifications, trade licenses
Work EnvironmentControl rooms, plant floors, outdoor facilitiesMaintenance workshops, outdoor sites, plant areas
Industry UsageUsed by power companies managing hydroelectric facilitiesEmployed by similar companies for equipment upkeep

While both roles are essential in hydroelectric facilities, Hydroelectric Power Plant Operators focus on running the plant and ensuring continuous power generation, whereas Hydroelectric Maintenance Technicians handle repairs and maintenance to keep equipment functioning efficiently.

How much does a hydroelectric power plant operator make?

Hydroelectric power plant operators typically earn a median annual wage of around $70,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and the size of the facility. They are responsible for monitoring equipment, adjusting controls, and ensuring safe operation, often working shifts that include nights and weekends.

How to get hired as a hydroelectric power plant operator?

To become a hydroelectric power plant operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training or an apprenticeship in power plant operations. Relevant skills include understanding control systems, safety procedures, and maintenance practices, and some positions may require certification or licensing depending on local regulations.

Is it hard to become a hydroelectric power plant operator?

Becoming a hydroelectric power plant operator typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training or an apprenticeship. Operators often need to obtain certifications and have technical skills to monitor equipment, control systems, and ensure safety, which can involve on-the-job learning and experience.
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Hydroelectric Power Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydroelectric Power Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,004 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

Power Plant Operator

Umatilla, OR • On-site

US Department of the Army
National Security • 10K+ employees
Learn more about US Department of the Armyexternal

$69.15/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Key responsibilities

  • Operate and maintain the hydropower facility, including restoring turbines to service after major overhauls.

  • Respond to system plant disturbances under supervision to ensure proper performance.

  • Perform physical tasks such as operating valves, lifting equipment, and working in various environmental conditions.

United States Army rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 495 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 50 rated military and defense

Job description

This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain Personnel of the DoD Workforce to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service.
About the Position: This position is located at McNary Dam, Umatilla, OR, a multi-purpose hydropower project, with missions that include operation/maintenance of the facility for flood control, hydroelectric power generation. Employees working at McNary and living in WA are exempt from OR state tax.Qualifications:Who May Apply: US Citizens
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.
There is no specific length of training or experience required. However, you must be able to demonstrate, through experience shown in your written application materials that you possess the sufficient knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the work of this position without more than normal supervision.
Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element): Ability to do the work of a Power Plant Operator without more than normal supervision. You must have the ability to ability to perform common journey-level Power Plant Operator duties in a power plant. (Example: Ability to restore a 12 megawatt or larger turbine generator to service after major overhaul in a large power plant with my work checked by my supervisor or another journey-level Power Plant Operator.) You must be able to respond to system plant or disturbances under close supervision of a work leader or journey-level employee who observes tasks in progress and upon completion to make sure they are properly performed. Failure to meet this Screen Out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
  • Physical Efforts: Eye and hand coordination is required to operate switches and controls. Job requires extensive walking, standing, and climbing vertical and inclined ladders and stairs. Is required to operate large valves, apply servolocks, lift deck hatches and other jobs requiring pulling or turning force. Lifts and carries equipment and supplies frequently up to, and occasionally over, 45 pounds. Work requires prolonged standing, walking, climbing, bending, stooping, twisting, pulling, pushing, and kneeling.
  • Working Conditions: Works on a rotating shift, inside, in well-lighted work area. Works outdoors for short periods with exposure to climate extremes. Occasionally works in proximity to high voltages and currents. Incumbent is often exposed to equipment and machinery noises and outside the control room employee will be subject to the discomfort of wearing safety equipment such as hard-hats, earplugs, and respirators. Must wear appropriate safety equipment and protective clothing, and successfully complete and maintain all occupational health requirements.
Education:Employment Type: OTHER

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Industry

National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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