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Hydroelectric Power Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$112K - $168K/yr

You are responsible for leading the design of HVAC, Plumbing, and Fire Protection systems on municipal water treatment plants, pumping stations, wastewater treatment plants, hydroelectric power ...

You are responsible for leading the design of HVAC, Plumbing, and Fire Protection systems on municipal water treatment plants, pumping stations, wastewater treatment plants, hydroelectric power ...

You are responsible for leading the design of HVAC, Plumbing, and Fire Protection systems on municipal water treatment plants, pumping stations, wastewater treatment plants, hydroelectric power ...

You are responsible for leading the design of HVAC, Plumbing, and Fire Protection systems on municipal water treatment plants, pumping stations, wastewater treatment plants, hydroelectric power ...

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Showing results 1-20

Hydroelectric Power information

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$13

$24

$46

How much do hydroelectric power jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 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.

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.

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:
Infographic showing various Hydroelectric Power job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 5% As Needed, 73% Part Time, 4% Temporary, 14% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,977 per year, or $24.5 per hour.
Senior Water Resources Engineer

Senior Water Resources Engineer

CDM Smith

Pittsburgh, PA

Other

Posted 20 days ago


CDM Smith rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 352 rated engineering


Job description

Join CDM Smith's esteemed team in the Mid-Atlantic, renowned for its expertise in water supply planning, groundwater and surface water modeling, water quality, stormwater/BMPs, collection system modeling and design support, hydraulics, hydrodynamic modeling, dam safety and emergency action planning, floodplain mapping, water distribution modeling, sustainability and climate resiliency planning, data analytics, dashboards, watershed management, effluent recharge planning, and permitting support.
An ideal candidate would support our team's multiple projects under the direction and guidance of task and project managers.
Main Responsibilities include:
Creating basic to moderate complexity calculations, modeling, data analysis, designs, on site evaluations and/or other similar evaluations for water resources projects (Ex: climate change adaptation; collection systems; CSOs; dams; drainage; economics and planning; ecosystem restoration; flood management; green infrastructure; groundwater; hydroelectric power; hydrology and hydraulics; integrated resource planning; irrigation; open channels; outfalls; planning; pressure conduits; probability and risk analysis; reservoirs; sedimentation; spillways, gates, and outlet works; stream, rivers and wetlands; stormwater management; urban watersheds; water law and regulations; watershed management; water supply planning and systems; and water quality, etc.).
Providing technical guidance, technical reviews, mentoring, and training to more junior staff.
Utilizing and supporting the development of CDM Smith's Technical Knowledge Management systems and Technical Knowledge Management material.
Collaborating with sales staff to create proposals in response to client requests.
Meeting with current and potential future clients.
Attending conferences, symposia, etc

to improve the visibility of the firm's products and services in collaboration with applicable sales staff.
Performs other duties as required.


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About CDM Smith

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

CDM Smith is a distinguished name in the engineering and construction industry, providing insightful consulting, designing, and execution services. Based in Boston, Massachusetts, US, this full-service engineering and construction firm was founded in 1947 and has been contributing to the national and global infrastructure ever since. Serving across diverse sectors like transportation, environment, water, energy, and facilities, they have built a reputation for excellence. The company firmly stands on its mission of delivering lasting, superior solutions to the world's complex challenges, thereby ensuring their clients create a transformative impact.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Cambridge, MA, US

Year founded

1947