Hydroelectric Plant Technicians

Job Zone 3 - Medium preparation needed

Monitor and control activities associated with hydropower generation. Operate plant equipment, such as turbines, pumps, valves, gates, fans, electric control boards, and battery banks. Monitor equipment operation and performance and make necessary adjustments to ensure optimal performance. Perform equipment maintenance and repair as necessary.

Pay & job outlook

Median pay: $102,040/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)

$61,790$131,940

Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.

Job outlook: -11.2% projected growth, 2024–2034 — declining.

About 2,500 openings per year, on average, over the decade.

Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.

Top skills

Critical ThinkingOperations MonitoringEquipment MaintenanceOperation and ControlMonitoringRepairingTroubleshootingReading ComprehensionActive ListeningSpeaking

Top knowledge areas

MechanicalPublic Safety and SecurityMathematicsEngineering and TechnologyEducation and TrainingDesignComputers and ElectronicsEnglish Language

Core tasks

• Monitor hydroelectric power plant equipment operation and performance, adjusting to performance specifications, as necessary.

• Identify or address malfunctions of hydroelectric plant operational equipment, such as generators, transformers, or turbines.

• Start, adjust, or stop generating units, operating valves, gates, or auxiliary equipment in hydroelectric power generating plants.

• Perform preventive or corrective containment or cleanup measures in hydroelectric plants to prevent environmental contamination.

• Inspect water-powered electric generators or auxiliary equipment in hydroelectric plants to verify proper operation or to determine maintenance or repair needs.

• Communicate status of hydroelectric operating equipment to dispatchers or supervisors.

• Operate high voltage switches or related devices in hydropower stations.

• Operate hydroelectric plant equipment, such as turbines, pumps, valves, gates, fans, electric control boards, or battery banks.

Frequently asked questions

What's the median pay for Hydroelectric Plant Technicians?

The median pay for Hydroelectric Plant Technicians is $102,040 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What's the job outlook for Hydroelectric Plant Technicians?

Employment for Hydroelectric Plant Technicians is projected to change -11.2% from 2024 to 2034 - declining.

What education is typically required for Hydroelectric Plant Technicians?

Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.

How many job openings are there each year for Hydroelectric Plant Technicians?

About 2,500 openings per year, on average, over the decade.