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Hydropower Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

GHD Group

Hydropower Project Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

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

GHD

Hydropower Project Manager

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

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

Tetra Tech

U.S. Hydropower Growth Leader

Irvine, CA

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 ...

Tetra Tech

U.S. Hydropower Growth Leader

Boston, MA · On-site

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 ...

Tetra Tech

U.S. Hydropower Growth Leader

Seattle, WA

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 ...

Tetra Tech

U.S. Hydropower Growth Leader

Madison, WI

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 ...

Tetra Tech

U.S. Hydropower Growth Leader

Fairfax, VA

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 ...

Tetra Tech

U.S. Hydropower Growth Leader

Atlanta, GA

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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How much do hydropower engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 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 engineers make $500,000?

In the field of hydropower engineering, senior-level engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills in project management or design can reach salaries around $500,000, especially in leadership roles or consulting positions. Such compensation often includes bonuses, profit sharing, or other incentives, and typically requires many years of expertise in the energy or engineering sectors.

What does a hydropower engineer do?

A hydropower engineer designs, develops, and maintains hydroelectric power systems that generate electricity from water flow. They analyze site conditions, select appropriate equipment, and ensure projects meet safety and environmental standards, often using tools like CAD software and requiring knowledge of fluid mechanics and electrical systems.

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

In the field of hydropower engineering, senior-level engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills in project management or design can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $300,000 annually, especially in leadership roles or in regions with high demand for renewable energy projects. Such compensation often includes bonuses, profit sharing, or other incentives. Typically, these roles require professional licensure and a strong track record of successful project delivery.

What are the top 3 most paid engineers?

In general, the highest-paid engineering roles include petroleum engineers, computer hardware engineers, and aerospace engineers. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and industry, with specialized skills and advanced certifications often leading to higher compensation.

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.
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Hydropower Engineering jobs near you
U.S. Hydropower Growth Leader

U.S. Hydropower Growth Leader

Tetra Tech, Inc.

Fairfax, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Tetra Tech rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

335th of 355 rated engineering

Job description

The Opportunity:
Tetra Tech's National Water Group is seeking a U.S. Hydropower Growth Leader to help expand and shape our hydropower and dam practice across the United States. This position offers hybrid work flexibility from our Fairfax, VA office or any Tetra Tech office nationwide.
Why Tetra Tech:
At Tetra Tech, we areLeading with Scienceto solve the world's most complex challenges.Our industry-leading experts in engineering and consulting are committed to driving positive change in communities around the world.For 60 years, we have been at the forefront of innovation and sustainability.Today we stand as a market leader, offering cutting-edge solutions in water, environment, energy, and international development.Our science-based planning and design improves lives in our local communities and around the world.
Your Impact:
As the U.S. Hydropower Growth Leader, you will serve as a trusted advisor to clients and internal teams alike. You will help define market strategy, strengthen client relationships, and guide the delivery of technically complex projects that support the future of hydropower in the United States. Your leadership will directly influence the growth of the Water Group's hydropower practice, the success of major pursuits, and the quality of delivery across our regional and national teams.
Position Summary:
We're looking for an experienced U.S. Hydropower Growth Leader with a keen knowledge of markets, trends and clients to lead and grow the U.S. hydropower and dam sector, with emphasis on FERC licensing, facility modernization, and early-phase hydropower development. This leader will be a client-facing, senior technical and market leader who leverages deep industry knowledge, regulatory expertise, and national client relationships to expand Tetra Tech's hydropower practice while strengthening integration with our established dam and reservoir program. Key attributes of this leader include:
  • 20+ years of dam and hydropower industry technical and leadership experience with a keen understanding of FERC licensing and fish-passage related projects.

  • Established reputation in the industry through participation in the National Hydropower Association, US Society on Dams, Association of State Dam Safety Officials, or related industry organizations.

  • Ability to scan power and water-related markets and to develop and implement a robust market strategy.

  • Agile to respond to market drivers including funding mechanisms, tax incentives and permitting requirements to provide an enhanced customer offering.

  • Proven ability to deliver projects and foster collaboration across geographies, disciplines, and business lines.

The position emphasizes market entry and growth, client development, and technical credibility, particularly in FERC-regulated hydropower projects and multi-office delivery models.
Essential Job Functions:
The following duties are considered essential to the role. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions:
  • Lead client engagement and serve as primary relationship manager for key hydropower and dam clients, converting industry relationships into repeat work and new awards across conventional hydropower and pumped storage markets.

  • Drive opportunities, shape pursuit strategies based on trends and funding mechanisms, define technical approaches, assemble best-in-firm teams, and represent Tetra Tech's technical credibility with developers, utilities, and public owners.

  • Provide program level leadership for feasibility studies, site screening, FERC licensing support, conceptual design, permitting, and early development services for hydropower and pumped storage projects.

  • Serve as senior technical reviewer and advisor on hydropower and dam projects, ensuring alignment with regulatory requirements, industry standards, and client expectations.

  • Coordinate and integrate multidisciplinary delivery teams across geographies and business lines, including dams, geotechnical, environmental, water quality, transmission, and fish passage.

  • Serve as Program Manager or Technical Lead on select major projects, with responsibility for scope, budget, schedule, and technical risk.

  • Support relationships with key clients of interest, including Public Utility Districts (PUDs) throughout the Northwest, the Tennessee Valley Authority; and clients with pumped storage hydropower (PSH) opportunities.

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree (Master's preferred) in Civil Engineering, Water Resources Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.

  • A minimum of 20+ years of experience in hydropower and/or dam engineering, including significant leadership responsibility in technical delivery, client development, or program management roles.

  • Professional Engineer (PE) licensure.

  • Demonstrated expertise in FERC licensing, hydropower permitting, and coordination with environmental review processes.

  • Proven capability leading early phase hydropower development, including feasibility studies, site screening, conceptual design, cost estimating, and licensing support.

  • Strong record of building and sustaining client relationships with utilities, public utility districts, power authorities, and public agencies.

  • Demonstrated success leading cross disciplinary, multi office teams and delivering complex infrastructure projects profitably.

  • Knowledge of hydropower facility systems (e.g., turbines, gates, balance of plant, powerhouses) sufficient to guide integrated engineering teams.

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to represent the firm at executive, regulatory, and industry association levels.

Physical Requirements:
  • Willingness to travel nationally to support client development, site visits, and project delivery.

  • Ability to work effectively in a hybrid or flexible work environment.

  • Manual dexterity to use a computer mouse, keyboard, and peripheral equipment.

  • The ability to sit at a workstation for prolonged periods of time.

  • Ability to communicate effectively verbally and via electronic means.

Additional Information:
  • This position offers hybrid work flexibility from any Tetra Tech office in the United States, with preference for candidates located in Denver, CO; Madison, WI; Chicago, IL; Nashville, TN; Chattanooga, TN; Raleigh, NC; Charlotte, NC; Fairfax, VA; Boston, MA; Atlanta, GA; Sacramento, CA; Irvine, CA; Seattle, WA; Bellevue, WA; or Portland, OR.

  • This is a full-time position typically scheduled Monday through Friday; however, additional hours may be required to meet company and program needs.

The salary range for this position is approximately $190,000 to $260,000. Compensation may vary and offers will be determined based on a combination of an individual's experience, skill set, certifications, and educational background.
Life at Tetra Tech:
The perks of working at Tetra Tech include:
  • Comprehensive and market-competitive benefits.

  • Merit-based financial rewards.

  • Flexibility and company-wide commitment to work/life balance.

  • A collaborative team atmosphere that values the contributions of all employees.

  • Learning and development opportunities for ongoing professional growth.

  • About Tetra Tech:

Tetra Tech is the leader in water, environment, and sustainable infrastructure, providing high-end consulting and engineering services for projects worldwide. With 25,000 employees working together, Tetra Tech provides clear solutions to complex problems by Leading with Science® to address the entire water cycle, protect and restore the environment, design sustainable and resilient infrastructure, and support the clean energy transition.
Tetra Tech is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, marital or familial status, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. Tetra Tech is a VEVRAA federal contractor and we request priority referral of veterans.

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