Hydroelectric Plant Technicians

These technicians spend their days controlling machines and processes to ensure smooth hydropower generation. They operate heavy plant equipment such as turbines, pumps, valves, electric control boards, gates, and battery banks. To keep the facility running safely, workers inspect equipment, monitor processes, and identify any unusual events or mechanical issues. When problems arise, they use critical thinking, troubleshooting, and decision-making skills to make adjustments or perform repairs on mechanical systems.

This role fits well with people who have realistic interests, as it involves hands-on, physical activities and operating mechanized devices. Technicians need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, engineering, technology, public safety, and mathematics. They must also be skilled in operations monitoring, reading comprehension, and active listening to communicate effectively with supervisors and peers about plant conditions.

To enter this career, a high school diploma is typically the minimum education required. However, many workers prepare by completing vocational training, earning an associate degree, or gaining related work experience. Students interested in this pathway often study college majors such as energy systems technologies or energy systems technicians.

Because the job involves complex machinery and safety protocols, employers value knowledge in physics, computers, electronics, and building construction. New technicians often receive on-the-job training to familiarize themselves with specific plant designs, public safety guidelines, and equipment maintenance procedures. No specific licenses or certifications are listed as mandatory for this role.

In 2025, the median annual pay for this field was $102,040, which is based on the broader BLS category for power plant operators. Within this group, the lowest 10% of earners made less than $61,790, while the highest 10% earned more than $131,940.

There were 29,320 people employed in this sector. Between 2025 and 2035, employment is projected to decline by -5.1%. Despite this projected decrease in total jobs, the industry is still expected to have 2,300 openings each year.