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Hydropower Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HDR is looking for a Mechanical Engineer to join our Power and Hydropower team in Charlotte, NC. This team provides engineering consulting services to electric utilities and independent power ...

HDR is looking for a Mechanical Engineer to join our Power and Hydropower team in Charlotte, NC. This team provides engineering consulting services to electric utilities and independent power ...

Our industry-leading experts in engineering and consulting are committed to driving positive change ... S. Hydropower Growth Leader, you will serve as a trusted advisor to clients and internal teams ...

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Hydropower Engineer information

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$39K

$104K

$193K

How much do hydropower engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for hydropower engineer in the United States is $104,010.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Hydropower Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hydropower Engineer, you need solid expertise in civil, mechanical, or electrical engineering, a relevant degree, and experience in designing and maintaining hydropower systems. Familiarity with software such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, and hydrological modeling tools, as well as knowledge of industry standards and professional engineering licensure (PE), is highly valuable. Strong project management, problem-solving, and teamwork skills are important for coordinating complex projects and working with diverse stakeholders. These competencies are critical for ensuring efficient, safe, and sustainable hydropower operations within regulatory and environmental guidelines.

What are some of the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Hydropower Engineer?

As a Hydropower Engineer, your daily activities often include designing system components, performing site assessments, and analyzing hydrological data to optimize power generation. You may also oversee maintenance schedules, troubleshoot operational issues, and support the installation or upgrade of equipment. Collaboration with environmental scientists, civil engineers, and regulatory bodies is common to ensure compliance and project success. The role is typically a mix of office-based planning and occasional field work to monitor site progress and fix technical issues.

What does a Hydropower Engineer do?

A Hydropower Engineer designs, develops, and maintains hydroelectric power systems that generate electricity from water resources. They analyze water flow, select suitable sites, and design dams, turbines, and power stations for efficient energy production. Their role also includes ensuring environmental compliance, optimizing energy output, and maintaining existing hydropower infrastructure. Hydropower Engineers work closely with environmental scientists, civil engineers, and policymakers to create sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions.

More about Hydropower Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Hydropower Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Hydropower Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Hydropower Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Hydropower Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Hydropower Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Hydropower Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Hydropower Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,010 per year, or $50 per hour.

Principal Hydropower Engineer - Innovation & Solutions (Charlotte)

Morson Talent

Charlotte, NC โ€ข Hybrid

$120K - $170K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 23 hours ago


Job description

Job Description Principal Hydropower Engineer - Innovation & Solutions Department: Engineering Supervisor: Engineering Director Location: Charlotte, NC Summary of the role The Engineering Subject Matter Expert will report into the Engineering Manager of US hydropower. This position will be the technical lead on critical time sensitive projects. They will work with a diverse team to handle the most challenging and critical technical issues related to turbine, generator, gates, and BOP.

This role will work closely with engineers by providing design consultation as well as mentorship to younger engineers to help ensure quality and timely solutions. The Engineering Subject Matter Expert will support proposals and design phases of projects including risk identifications and mitigation, strategic technical decision and orientation, lessons learned sharing and training. The following responsibilities form the core of this role: Provide documented technical support and guidance to field and design related issues.

Support the creation and review of budget and schedule proposals Act as technical expert in design reviews and provide documented design guidance. Conduct / support design interface review and stack up calculations Record and communicate lessons learned and correctives/preventives measures. Lead and mentor engineers in turbine and generator design Analyze mechanical components, using in-house tools or developing calculations as necessary Disposition and create technical reports to address non conformances Review and approve mechanical drawings to ensure contractual and internal requirements are met Define technical requirements for manufacturing, installation and testing Review and analyze site data and testing Provide support for manufacturing, testing, installation and commissioning of systems as necessary Participate in problem solving and root cause identification Participate in the planning of engineering activities Do you fit the profile.

Successful teams share objectives, and they also share values. In addition to your strong skills and experience, we need someone with high motivation, a positive mindset, and a willingness to be part of a team. The ideal candidate will have a passion for engineering and hydropower with more than 15 years experience in hydropower.

They must be good technical mentors, have a high sense of urgency, able to handle dynamic urgent technical needs, be willing to work in a complex, fast-paced environment, with evolving priorities. Result and solution-oriented candidates who follow through with ideas and commitments will perform well with our client. As our projects have large scopes and often require years to be completed, your perseverance will be valued with us.

15+ years experience in hydropower Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering Mastery in the areas of hydroelectric turbines and generators, and the systems that surround them Engineer with broad experience in hydropower products, from engineering to installation and commissioning Professional Engineer license preferred Ability to navigate complex organizations to identify stakeholders Excellent written communication skills of technical issues to leadership and customers Mastery of engineering and business processes CAD knowledge (Siemens NX preferred) Knowledge of MS Office suite, and relevant IT tools 10-15% travel domestically and abroad as required What do we offer Life, disability, dental and extended health insurance; 401k matching; Hybrid work mode; Annual bonus program; Employee assistance program; Employee individualized training and career plan.