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Hydropower Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HDR

Hydropower Structural EIT/Designer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

HDR's Hydropower Engineering group has an opportunity for a Hydropower Structural EIT/Designer in our Charlotte, NC office. The EIT will work with HDR structural engineers and inspectors on various ...

HDR

Hydropower Structural EIT/Designer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

HDR's Hydropower Engineering group has an opportunity for a Hydropower Structural EIT/Designer in our Charlotte, NC office. The EIT will work with HDR structural engineers and inspectors on various ...

Schnabel Branding Colors

PA · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Schnabel is an employee-owned, professional engineering and consulting firm that focuses on solving ... Analyze and design components related to hydropower generation, dams, and water infrastructure ...

Schnabel Inc.

Senior Hydropower Engineer

Chadds Ford, PA · On-site

$115K - $150K/yr

Schnabel is an employee-owned, professional engineering and consulting firm that focuses on solving ... Analyze and design components related to hydropower generation, dams, and water infrastructure ...

Schnabel Inc.

Senior Hydropower Engineer

Harrisburg, PA · On-site

$115K - $150K/yr

Schnabel is an employee-owned, professional engineering and consulting firm that focuses on solving ... Analyze and design components related to hydropower generation, dams, and water infrastructure ...

HDR

Structural Engineer - Hydropower

Charlotte, NC · On-site

HDR is growing our Hydropower team across the Southeast and we're looking for engineers at all ... Requires professional engineering license recognized by the licensing board for the location of the ...

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 ...

HDR

Structural Engineer - Hydropower

Charlotte, NC · On-site

HDR is growing our Hydropower team across the Southeast and we're looking for engineers at all ... Requires professional engineering license recognized by the licensing board for the location of the ...

HDR

Geotechnical Engineer - Hydropower

Charlotte, NC · On-site

HDR is growing our Hydropower team across the Southeast and we're looking for engineers at all ... S. degree in Geotechnical or Geological Engineering PE license in NC 5 years of related experience ...

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Hydropower Engineering information

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How much do hydropower engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 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 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a hydropower engineer?

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 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.

How much do hydropower engineers make?

Hydropower engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior engineers or those with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $120,000 annually. Salaries may also vary based on the complexity of projects and the size of the employing organization.

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, create engineering plans, and ensure projects meet safety and environmental standards, often using tools like CAD software and requiring knowledge of fluid mechanics and electrical systems.
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What are popular job titles related to Hydropower Engineering jobs?

For Hydropower Engineering jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Hydropower Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydropower Engineering job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,624 per year, or $31.6 per hour.

Senior Hydropower Engineer

Harrisburg, PA • On-site

Schnabel Engineering, Inc.
Civil Engineering Construction • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Schnabel Engineering, Inc.external

$115K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Schnabel is an employee-owned, professional engineering and consulting firm that focuses on solving problems related to the earth and environment through specialization in geotechnical, geostructural, tunnel, and dam engineering. Schnabel’s high standards for quality, business ethics, and concern for the communities in which we live are a vital part of who we are. Schnabel is an ENR Top 500 Design Firm with 700+ employees in 32 offices throughout the United States.

Recognized by CE News as one of the Best Engineering Firms to Work for, Schnabel provides employees with a competitive benefits package including maternity leave, tuition reimbursement for continuing education, health, dental, life and disability insurance and a wellness program. As an employee-owned company, through the Employee Stock Ownership Plan, Schnabel employees directly benefit from the success of our growing firm.

Benefit options include:

  • Medical insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Employee life & ADD insurance (100% company-paid)
  • Short-term disability (100% company-paid)
  • Long-term disability
  • Supplemental life insurance
  • 401(k) and profit-sharing plan
  • Employee stock ownership plan (ESOP)
  • Bonus program
  • Paid time off
  • 9 Paid Holidays
  • Wellness program
  • Professional development and tuition reimbursement

Job Description:

Schnabel Engineering is seeking a Senior Hydropower Engineer to join our growing team in our Harrisburg or Chadds Ford, PA locations. In this role, you will support clients with assessments, planning, and optimization of hydropower facilities with a focus on life extension and modernization. This role will also support engineering and design of other water infrastructure projects, including dams, pump stations, intakes, penstocks, gates, and valves.
 

Job Responsibilities:

  • Analyze and design components related to hydropower generation, dams, and water infrastructure, including stationary and rotating power unit equipment, water control devices, steel fabrications, and hydraulic structures.
  • Perform inspections and assessments of flow control structures, hydroelectric turbines, generators, governors, and other hydropower plant equipment. 
  • Prepare technical reports that summarize findings, analysis, and provide recommendations with clarity.
  • Conduct mechanical analysis, including detailed design calculations, Finite Element Analysis (FEA), and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) were appropriate.
  • Assist in the preparation of engineering plans and technical specifications.
  • Prepare 2D design drawings.
  • Prepare 3D design models.
  • Review the work of team members.
  • Organize and manage project specific engineering scope, schedule, and deliverables.
  • Communicate with clients and project stakeholders, establish goals and objectives for project teams, schedule and coordinate resources to deliver projects on time, within budget, and to the quality expectations of the contract.
  • Serve as a direct supervisor to oversee, develop, and mentor engineering staff.
  • Travel periodically—up to 20%—for field investigations, client meetings, and business development activities.

Required Skills/Experience:

  • A bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited institution is required.
  • 10+ years of engineering experience with planning, design, and modernization of hydropower generation equipment.
  • Ability to manage simultaneous tasks and multi-discipline projects throughout the project lifecycle.  
  • High proficiency with technical engineering principles and analysis methods.
  • PE license or desire and ability to become a Licensed Professional Engineer.
  • Experience and interest in the following types of water infrastructure projects:
    • Dams
    • Hydropower Plants
    • Pumps Stations
    • Hydroelectric Turbines, Generators, & Governors
    • Intakes
    • Penstocks
    • Gates and Valves
  • Proficiency with modern CAD software.
  • Excellent communication skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Have a positive attitude and work well in a team environment.
  • A strong work ethic and the desire to perform professionally at a high level.

Preferred Skills/Experience:

  • 12+ years of relevant work experience on hydropower, water infrastructure, and dam engineering projects.
  • Experience with Mathcad, AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Inventor, or Revit.

Other Requirements:

  • Ability to pass a background check which may include criminal history, motor vehicle record, credit check.
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening.

Candidates must provide a cover letter to be considered.

The compensation range for this position is between $115,000 to $150,000. Compensation for this position may vary based on geographic location and other factors. We remain committed to providing competitive and equitable compensation to all employees, regardless of their location.

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