Hydroelectric Plant Technicians
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.
Common Job Titles
- Hydro Technician (Hydro Tech)
- Hydroelectric Mechanic
- Operations and Maintenance Technician (O and M Technician)
- Power Plant Mechanic
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Hydroelectric Plant Technicians (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
30,720
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $59,930. 25th percentile: U.S. $77,400. 50th percentile: U.S. $99,670. 75th percentile: U.S. $111,980. 90th percentile: U.S. $128,760. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $59,930 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $128,760 |
| Workers on average earn | $95,990 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Mechanical4.9/5
- Public Safety and Security4.3/5
- Mathematics4.3/5
- Engineering and Technology4.1/5
- Education and Training4.0/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Word
Technology Skills
- Computerized maintenance management system CMMS
- Distributed control system DCS
- IBM Lotus Notes
- Supervisory control and data acquisition SCADA software
- Web browser software
Tools & Equipment
- Adjustable hand wrenches
- Channel lock pliers
- Clamp-on ammeters
- Claw hammers
- Combustion turbines
- Cordless drills
- Desktop computers
- Digital multimeters