Chief Dam Safety Engineer

NCPA; Murphys (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Key role in public safety

Lead high-impact projects

Commitment to safety and inclusion

Job summary

NCPA is seeking an experienced Senior Hydroelectric Engineer to lead critical engineering and regulatory compliance efforts as Chief Dam Safety Engineer. The role involves overseeing the Dam Safety Program, providing engineering leadership, and managing large-scale hydroelectric projects. Ideal candidates have over 13 years of experience and a strong background in safety management and engineering tools. Join NCPA, a mission-driven organization, to play a pivotal role in public safety and renewable energy reliability in California.

Qualifications

• 13+ years of progressive hydroelectric civil engineering experience, including large-scale projects.
• Extensive background in planning, design, permitting, O&M, project, and construction management.
• Prior designation as a Chief Dam Safety Engineer (CDSE).
• California Civil Engineer license (highly desirable).

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee NCPA’s Dam Safety Program, ensuring compliance with FERC, DSOD, and other regulatory requirements.
• Provide engineering leadership for design, inspection, permitting, licensing, and construction management of hydroelectric projects.
• Serve as project and construction manager for capital improvements.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Technical compliance

Dam safety management

Communication

Engineering tools proficiency

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

ArcGIS

HEC-HMS

MS Office

Job description

Overview

NCPA is seeking an experienced Senior Hydroelectric Engineer to serve as Chief Dam Safety Engineer (CDSE) and lead critical engineering, dam safety, and regulatory compliance efforts across our hydroelectric facilities. This is a highly visible role for a seasoned professional who thrives in technical leadership, project delivery, and collaboration with regulatory agencies.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee NCPA’s Dam Safety Program, ensuring compliance with FERC, DSOD, and other regulatory requirements
• Provide engineering leadership for design, inspection, permitting, licensing, and construction management of hydroelectric and civil infrastructure projects
• Serve as project and construction manager for capital improvements and public works projects
• Manage and analyze dam, tunnel, and landslide instrumentation; prepare technical reports and feasibility studies
• Act as primary liaison to regulatory agencies (FERC, DSOD, USFS, USGS, and others)
• Improve plant reliability, performance efficiency, and water resource utilization
• Supervise engineering staff, consultants, and contractors; support training and O&M coordination
• Oversee road maintenance, land surveys, and project records

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from an accredited institution
• 13+ years of progressive hydroelectric civil engineering experience, including large-scale projects
• Extensive background in planning, design, permitting, O&M, project and construction management
• Prior designation as a Chief Dam Safety Engineer (CDSE)
• California Civil Engineer license (highly desirable)
• Strong leadership, decision-making, and communication skills
• Proficiency with engineering and project tools such as AutoCAD, ArcGIS, HEC-HMS, and MS Office

Why NCPA

• Play a key role in public safety and renewable energy reliability
• Lead high-impact infrastructure projects from concept to completion
• Work with a mission-driven organization committed to safety, inclusion, and operational excellence