Associate Hydroelectric Power Utility Engnner

California Department of Water Resources; Sacramento (CA); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

The California Department of Water Resources seeks an Associate Hydroelectric Power Utility Engineer to perform energy demand and supply optimization studies as part of the SWP planning process.

You will assist in developing strategies to meet renewable and greenhouse gas portfolio standards and craft approaches that ensure reliable, cost-effective energy delivery for water projects. Prior hydroelectric and utility project experience is essential.

Qualifications

• B.S. in electrical, mechanical, civil or related field.
• Eligible for professional engineer licensure desirable.
• Experience in power utility, hydroelectric facilities, or large infrastructure projects.
• Knowledge of safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
• Effective communication and teamwork across disciplines.

Responsibilities

• Perform energy demand and supply optimization studies as part of SWP planning.
• Assist in developing strategies to meet renewable and greenhouse gas targets.
• Develop strategies for reliable and cost-effective energy supply for water deliveries.

Skills

Power systems

Hydroelectric

Electrical engineering

Project coordination

Regulatory compliance

Stakeholder communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering

Job description

Company Description

The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) was established in 1956 to plan, design, construct, and oversee the nation’s largest state-built water development and conveyance system. Today, DWR protects, conserves, develops, and manages a significant portion of California’s water supply, including the State Water Project, which serves 27 million residents and 750,000 acres of farmland. Working collaboratively with other agencies and the public, DWR sets strategic goals and implements near- and long-term actions to sustain California’s watersheds and water management systems. The department also plays a critical role in preventing and responding to floods, droughts, and other catastrophic events that threaten public safety, water resources, infrastructure, the environment, and property. DWR is committed to balancing the state’s water needs with environmental protection over the long term.

Role Description

Under direction of the Power Resources Unit's Senior Hydroelectric Plant (HEP) Utility Engineer (Supervisor), the incumbent Associate Hydroelectric Power Utility Engineer is responsible for performing energy demand and supply optimization studies as part of the Department of Water Resources (DWR) integrated resource planning for the State Water Project (SWP); assisting in developing strategies to meet renewable and greenhouse gas portfolio standards; and developing strategies that will promote reliable and cost-effective energy supply for water deliveries.

Qualifications

• Technical engineering skills in power systems, hydroelectric generation, electrical or mechanical engineering, and utility operations.
• Analytical and problem-solving abilities, including data analysis, system performance evaluation, and troubleshooting of complex technical issues.
• Project coordination and documentation skills, such as developing technical reports, reviewing plans and specifications, and supporting project schedules.
• Knowledge of safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements relevant to hydroelectric and utility operations, with attention to compliance and risk mitigation.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to collaborate across disciplines and interact with internal and external stakeholders.
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering (electrical, mechanical, civil, or related field) from an accredited institution; eligibility for professional engineer licensure is desirable.
• Experience in power utility, hydroelectric facilities, or large infrastructure projects is required. Please see the minimum expirience requirements (
• Ability to work in a hybrid setting in Sacramento, CA, manage priorities, and adapt to evolving operational and environmental conditions.

https://eservices.calhr.ca.gov/enterprisehrblazorpublic/Public/ClassSpec/ClassSpecDetail/3675