Hydroelectric Plant Technicians
O*NET 51-8013.04 · SOC 51-8013
Hydroelectric Plant Technician is a risky career choice. Median pay is $102k a year with -5.1% projected growth through 2035 (declining) and about 2,300 openings a year. AI exposure: Elevated.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Open and close water intake gates to control flow
- →Monitor turbine speed and generator output on control panels
- →Inspect penstocks and draft tubes for leaks or damage
- →Adjust wicket gates to regulate water flow through turbines
- →Coordinate with grid operators to match power demand levels
Education & How to Get In
Most Hydroelectric Plant Technician positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.
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Work Environment
Hands-on — labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed — alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Hydroelectric Plant Technician involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Hydroelectric Plant Technician?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering — personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Hydroelectric Plant Technician Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
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Job Outlook
Employment of Hydroelectric Plant Technicians is projected to decline 5.1% from 2025 to 2035, declining for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·39% routine cognitive tasks — high automation target
- ·44% physical tasks — limited by robotics progress
- ·Declining employment suggests structural disruption
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Hydroelectric Plant Technician make?
The median Hydroelectric Plant Technician earns $102k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Hydroelectric Plant Technician jobs?
Our model puts Hydroelectric Plant Technician at 58 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is elevated disruption risk. The main drivers: 39% routine cognitive tasks — high automation target; 44% physical tasks — limited by robotics progress.
Is Hydroelectric Plant Technician a growing field?
Employment is projected to shrink 5.1% between 2025 and 2035, which is declining. That works out to roughly 2,300 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Hydroelectric Plant Technician?
Most Hydroelectric Plant Technician roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.
How long does it take to become a Hydroelectric Plant Technician?
Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Hydroelectric Plant Technician career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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