1

Hydropower Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Become part of our global network of skilled engineers, scientists, auditors, planners and ... Strong technical skills within hydropower disciplines; structural engineering, civil engineering ...

Hydropower Growth Leader to help grow and shape our hydropower and dam practice in the United ... Our industry-leading experts in engineering and consulting are committed to driving positive change ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Hydropower Engineering information

See salary details

$12

$31

$57

How much do hydropower engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydropower engineering in the United States is $31.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $37.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Hydropower Engineering vs Civil Engineering?

AspectHydropower EngineeringCivil Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Civil, or Environmental Engineering; often specialized certifications in hydropowerBachelor's in Civil Engineering; PE license often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesigning, analyzing, and overseeing hydropower projects; fieldwork at dams and power plantsDesigning and constructing infrastructure like bridges, roads, and buildings; site visits and project management
Employer & Industry UsageEnergy companies, renewable energy firms, government agenciesConstruction firms, consulting agencies, government departments

Hydropower Engineering focuses specifically on designing and managing water-based energy projects, often requiring specialized knowledge of fluid dynamics and renewable energy systems. Civil Engineering covers a broader range of infrastructure projects, including water resources, transportation, and structural design. While both fields share foundational engineering principles and credentials, hydropower engineers specialize in renewable energy projects involving water resources, whereas civil engineers work on diverse infrastructure projects across multiple sectors.

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

To thrive as a Hydropower Engineer, you need a solid background in civil, mechanical, or electrical engineering, often supported by a relevant engineering degree and professional licensure. Familiarity with design software like AutoCAD, hydrological modeling tools, and project management systems is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and sustainable design, construction, and operation of hydropower projects.

What are some common challenges faced by hydropower engineers during project development?

Hydropower engineers often encounter challenges related to environmental regulations, site accessibility, and community impact. Navigating the permitting process can be complex, as it requires thorough environmental assessments and coordination with multiple stakeholders. Additionally, engineers must address technical challenges such as designing for variable water flow and integrating with existing power grids. Effective collaboration with environmental scientists, construction teams, and local authorities is essential to ensure project success and compliance.

What is hydropower engineering?

Hydropower engineering is a specialized field of engineering focused on the design, development, and maintenance of systems that generate electricity from the energy of moving water. This includes the planning and construction of dams, turbines, and related infrastructure to harness hydroelectric power. Hydropower engineers work to ensure these systems are efficient, environmentally responsible, and safe. Their work plays a critical role in providing renewable energy and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
More about Hydropower Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Hydropower Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Hydropower Engineering job openings:
What states have the most Hydropower Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Hydropower Engineering jobs include:
Infographic showing various Hydropower Engineering job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,624 per year, or $31.6 per hour.

Senior Engineer - Hydropower Lead

Kleinschmidt Group

Lexington, SC โ€ข On-site

$120K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Kleinschmidt has a full-time opening for a Senior Engineer-Hydropower Lead in either our Lexington, South Carolina or Charlotte, North Carolina offices to develop hydropower engineering work in the region and support projects across Kleinschmidt. We welcome candidates based in the Southeast region. Our flexibility and core value of relationships allow us to offer employees the opportunity to work in a hybrid environment.

Salary: $120,000 - $185,000/year (based on experience)

Who You Are

Knowledgeable: A licensed Professional Engineer with a BS in Civil, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering, and a minimum of 15 years' experience in hydropower engineering, business development, client management, and project management. Knowledge of standards and codes applicable to the candidate's engineering discipline is required. Experience with analysis and design of hydropower facilities including dams, gates, spillways, penstocks, powerhouse structures, generating equipment, and balance of plant systems. The candidate should show experience with coordinating multidiscipline designs and design teams with structural, hydrology/hydraulic, mechanical, electrical, and geotechnical engineers. The candidate should possess experience with regulatory requirements and processes. The candidate should have experience working in the field with clients and contractors during the planning and construction of projects. The candidate will possess excellent problem-solving skills, oral and written communication skills to manage projects and clients, and be passionate about mentoring junior-level staff.

Project Manager: Experience working on and managing all aspects of large, multidiscipline, complex projects, working directly with senior leaders and the project team to provide practical solutions to complex problems affecting renewable energy, water, and the environment.

Relationship-focused: Ability to establish long-lasting relationships with clients to assist them in solving complex engineering challenges. Demonstrates the ability to work effectively with a multidisciplinary team while applying engineering skills from analysis and design through to construction.

Additional Requirements

  • Must possess permanent authorization to work in the United States.
  • Must be willing to travel and possess a valid driver's license.

About the Position

This position provides an opportunity to be a part of a team working on the design and management of hydroelectric and fisheries related facilities, incorporating the skills of civil, structural, geotechnical, mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic engineering. The position includes developing hydropower engineering work, developing client relationships, managing large multi-disciplinary project teams, and mentoring and developing staff in the southeastern and eastern United States.

Who We Are

At Kleinschmidt, we combine engineering expertise, regulatory know-how, and scientific skills to tackle the most challenging projects in renewable energy, water resources, and the natural environment. With over 50 years of experience, we stand out as one of North America's premier employee-owned consulting firms specializing in hydropower.

Our team thrives on passion and engagement, continuously pushing the boundaries of innovation and creativity. At Kleinschmidt, you'll find a vibrant community of professionals eager to share knowledge and help you achieve your career goals. We place technical excellence at the core of what we do, fostering an environment that prioritizes continuous learning and professional development. Join us and turn your potential into impactful solutions that define the future of our planet.

Our Process

Kleinschmidt strives to provide a great candidate experience. After careful review of resumes, we will notify those we are interested in interviewing. We may ask for more details with an initial screening. Our process normally involves two interviews. The top candidate will then be asked to provide 2-3 references and offered a benefits call, a unique step in our process where we describe our full benefits package. The final step is an offer sent via email.

Benefits

  • Competitive salary
  • Bonus Program
  • Comprehensive medical/dental/vision package
  • 401(k) with 4% employer match and 100% immediate vesting
  • 10 Paid Floating Holidays
  • Paid Time Off
  • Company Paid Short-Term Disability and Life Insurance
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Employee Ownership

Kleinschmidt is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. It is our company policy and culture to provide equal opportunity to all persons without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender status, disability status, national origin, veteran status, and all other dimensions of diversity.


Job Posted by ApplicantPro