Hydroelectric Plant Technician

Your Fit

Income

$97K

Preparation

Medium

Growth

-12.5%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Hydroelectric Plant Technician?

A Hydroelectric Plant Technician operates and maintains the machinery and controls that generate power using hydroelectric energy. They ensure the efficient and safe production of electricity from water resources.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Hydroelectric Plant Technician.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

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How much does a Hydroelectric Plant Technician earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$54K per year	$73K per year	$97K per year	$107K per year	$123K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $49K above the national average.

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What does a Hydroelectric Plant Technician do?

Work environment

Technicians work in hydroelectric power plants, often located in remote areas near water sources like rivers and dams. The environment may involve working in confined spaces, at heights, or outdoors, sometimes in adverse weather conditions. Shift work can be common, including nights and weekends.

Quick task list

Monitors and adjusts equipment to optimize power generation.
Conducts regular inspections and maintenance of turbines, generators, and other plant equipment.
Diagnoses and repairs mechanical and electrical problems.
Ensures compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
Records and analyzes operational data.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Turbine Maintenance: Specializing in the upkeep and repair of hydroelectric turbines.
Control Systems: Focusing on the electrical systems that control power generation.
Environmental Compliance: Ensuring plant operations adhere to environmental standards.
Power Generation Optimization: Enhancing efficiency and output of hydroelectric plants.
Safety Management: Specializing in implementing and monitoring safety protocols.

Description

Hydroelectric Plant Technicians play a critical role in the renewable energy sector. They manage the day-to-day operations of hydroelectric power plants, ensuring that the facilities run efficiently and safely. This involves a combination of hands-on mechanical work and technical monitoring.

Understanding how water flow is converted into electrical energy is key for these technicians. They must be skilled in both the mechanical aspects, like maintaining turbines and generators, and the electrical components, including control systems and power distribution.

The job requires a strong commitment to safety and environmental stewardship, as hydroelectric plants must operate within strict regulatory frameworks. Technicians often work as part of a team, though some tasks may require independent problem-solving.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Contributing to sustainable energy production.
Engaging in diverse technical and mechanical challenges.
Opportunities for career advancement in a growing renewable energy sector.
Job stability in a field essential to energy infrastructure.

You might make a good Hydroelectric Plant Technician if you are...

Fascinated by renewable energy and environmental stewardship.
Proficient in mechanical and electrical systems.
Detail-oriented with strong problem-solving skills.
Comfortable working in various physical conditions and locations.
Capable of working independently and as part of a team.

Pros:

Involvement in the environmentally friendly and growing renewable energy industry.
Diverse and challenging work with opportunities for continual learning.
Competitive salaries and benefits.

Cons:

Potential for work in remote locations.
Physical demands and possible exposure to hazardous conditions.
Requirement for shift work, including nights and weekends.

How to become a Hydroelectric Plant Technician

Typical education

Typically, a high school diploma with additional specialized training or an associate degree in a field like electrical or mechanical technology is required. Some positions may also require specific certifications.

High school preparation

Courses:

Physics and mathematics for technical foundation.
Shop classes or vocational training in mechanical and electrical fields.
Environmental science to understand the impact of renewable energy.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Joining science clubs or environmental groups.
Participating in internships or summer jobs related to mechanical or electrical work.

Preparation after high school

Technical or community college programs in electrical or mechanical technology.
Specific training programs in hydroelectric power.
Apprenticeships or on-the-job training in power plants.
Certifications in areas like electrical systems or environmental compliance.

More resources

Hydroelectric Power Plant Technicians - Information on the role and training.
National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) - Offers resources on renewable energy technologies.
American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) - Provides industry standards and educational resources.
North American Young Generation in Nuclear (NAYGN) - Networking and education for young professionals in the energy sector.

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