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Hydroelectric Power Jobs (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

$89K - $116K/yr

Directs the many facets and activities of the Seattle District Hydroelectric Power Plant Trainee Program (HPPTP) and is responsible for ensuring quality and quantity of the training. Geographic ...

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$13

$24

$46

How much do hydroelectric power jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydroelectric power in the United States is $24.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in hydroelectric power operations?

Professionals in hydroelectric power operations often face challenges related to maintaining equipment reliability, adapting to fluctuating water levels, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Daily tasks may involve monitoring power generation systems, performing routine maintenance, and coordinating with engineers, environmental specialists, and local authorities. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are crucial, as the work environment is typically team-oriented and may require responding quickly to unexpected issues like equipment faults or changes in weather conditions.

How many jobs are created by hydropower?

Hydroelectric power plants create a variety of jobs, including roles for engineers, technicians, operators, and environmental specialists. The industry supports thousands of jobs worldwide, with employment opportunities in construction, maintenance, and management, often requiring technical skills and safety certifications.

How hard is it to become a power plant operator?

Becoming a hydroelectric power plant operator typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with on-the-job training or an apprenticeship that can last several months to years. Operators often need to obtain certifications or licenses depending on state regulations and must develop skills in equipment operation, safety procedures, and troubleshooting, making it a job that demands technical knowledge and experience.

What is the highest paying job in renewable energy?

In renewable energy, senior roles such as renewable energy project managers, energy directors, and chief engineers tend to have the highest salaries. Hydroelectric power specialists with advanced technical skills and management experience can also earn high compensation, especially in leadership positions overseeing large projects or operations.

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 a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or relevant technical certification. Familiarity with SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems, turbine controls, and maintenance management software is important. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable operation of hydroelectric facilities.

How much do hydroelectric operators make?

Hydroelectric operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and the size of the facility. They often require technical skills, safety certifications, and knowledge of control systems and machinery to operate and maintain hydroelectric power plants effectively.

What are hydroelectric power jobs?

Hydroelectric power jobs involve working with the generation, operation, maintenance, and management of electricity produced by harnessing the energy of moving water. These roles can include engineers, plant operators, technicians, environmental scientists, and administrative professionals. Employees in this sector help design, construct, monitor, and repair hydroelectric dams and facilities, ensuring safe and efficient power production. Careers in hydroelectric power support renewable energy initiatives and contribute to sustainable electricity generation.

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

AspectHydroelectric PowerHydroelectric Plant Technician
CredentialsEngineering degrees, technical certificationsTechnical certifications, training in electrical/mechanical systems
Work EnvironmentPower plants, control rooms, outdoor dam sitesPower plants, maintenance facilities, outdoor dam sites
Industry UsageDesigning, managing, and optimizing hydroelectric systemsMaintaining and repairing hydroelectric equipment

Hydroelectric Power involves the overall design, management, and optimization of hydroelectric energy systems, often requiring engineering expertise. In contrast, a Hydroelectric Plant Technician focuses on the hands-on maintenance and repair of equipment within hydroelectric facilities. Both roles are essential in the hydroelectric industry but differ in scope and responsibilities.

More about Hydroelectric Power jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Hydroelectric Power jobs? The most popular types of Hydroelectric Power jobs are:
What states have the most Hydroelectric Power jobs? States with the most job openings for Hydroelectric Power jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Hydroelectric Power jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Hydroelectric Power jobs are:
Hydroelectric Power jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydroelectric Power job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 84% Physical, 9% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,977 per year, or $24.5 per hour.
Power Plant Trainee I

Power Plant Trainee I

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Lancaster, TN • On-site

$40.90/hr

Other

Posted 25 days ago

U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 530 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 46 rated military and defense

Job description

This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain Personnel of the DoW Workforce to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service.
About the Position: You will serve as a first year trainee in a formal program in power plant operation. The assignments, on-the-job training, and required course work are designed to qualify the employee for the next higher grade in the trainee program.
11 Total VacanciesQualifications:Who May Apply: US Citizens
In order to qualify, you must meet the experience requirements described below. 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.
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 perform the duties of a POWER PLANT TRAINEE I without more than normal supervision. Duties include operating, servicing and maintaining hydroelectric power plant equipment and associated auxiliary systems; performing routine preventative maintenance inspections and operational checks; cleaning and painting equipment and facilities; and assisting with major electrical and mechanical maintenance and overhaul activities. Failure to meet this Screen Out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
PHYSICAL EFFORT: Incumbent frequently lifts, carries or otherwise handles items weighing up to 50 pounds. Occasionally handles items greater than 50 pounds. Assistance is available with heavy items. Works in sitting, standing, walking. bending, crouching, reaching, and stooping positions, for extended periods if required.
WORKING CONDITIONS: Work is required to be performed both inside and outside and is subject to all extremes of weather. Incumbent is subjected to the danger of falls from scaffolds and slings, asbestos, carbon dust, fumes, electric shock, noise, moving machinery. close places in cramped positions. slippery conditions both water and grease. frequent travel, and other conditions expected from mechanical and electrical repair of power plant equipment. Incumbent is subject to abrasions, burns, cuts. and bruises common to the use of hand tools. Employee is required to observe established safe working procedures. Wearing of respirators, hard hats, hard toe footwear, gloves. goggles. face shields, rubber aprons, rainwear, and earplugs is mandatory in the performance of duties.Education:The Hydropower Plant Trainee program includes approximately one year of formal classroom instruction at Old Hickory Power Plant (Hendersonville, TN), followed by 2-3 years of structured on-the-job training. Upon successful completion of the classroom training phase, trainees may be assigned to duty locations including Barkley Power Plant (Kuttawa, KY); Cordell Hull Power Plant (Carthage, TN); Dale Hollow Power Plant (Celina, TN); Cheatham Power Plant (Charlotte, TN); Old Hickory Power Plant (Hendersonville, TN); and Center Hill Power Plant (Lancaster, TN).Employment Type: OTHER

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