Hydro Operator (Union Role)

Great River Hydro LLC; Hartford (VT); On-site; USD 45,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Great River Hydro LLC in the United States is seeking a Hydro Operator trainee with a path to Hydro Operator II. The role emphasizes remote operation of hydro facilities and adherence to FERC, NERC, and ISO-NE policies.

The position involves 12-hour rotating shifts in an office environment, with overtime and emergency call-ins as needed. Candidates should bring basic electricity knowledge, strong math skills, and solid communication abilities.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of basic electricity and power plant physics.
• Proficiency with MS Office (Outlook, Word, Excel).
• Strong math skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent oral and written communication.
• Ability to work in a team and independently.
• Ability to multitask and prioritize.

Responsibilities

• Training on a primary river system with progression to Hydro Operator II.
• Oversee remote operation and control of hydro facilities.
• Start/stop generators, monitor generation levels and river flow.
• Coordinate with maintenance crews and ISO-NE, follow policies.
• Perform other duties as required.

Skills

Power plant basics

Analytical/math skills

Oral and written communication

Teamwork and independence

Multitasking

Tools

MS Office

Job description

Description

About Us

Great River Hydro is New England’s largest producer of conventional hydropower. We own and operate 13 generating stations and three storage-only reservoirs along the Connecticut and Deerfield Rivers, providing clean, renewable, and reliable energy to New England.

Our mission and vision guide our work every day—to be a trusted leader in New England’s energy transition by growing and diversifying our generation while leveraging our legacy assets. Backed by more than 100+ skilled professionals, we operate with a strong safety culture and a commitment to responsible stewardship.

We are seeking dynamic individuals who thrive in fast-paced environments and prioritize safety in every task, ensuring a secure atmosphere for all. Our ideal candidates will demonstrate a commitment to delivering reliable solutions while embracing a culture of stewardship—taking responsibility for their actions and the impact they have on our community and environment. Trustworthiness is at the core of our operations; we value team members who build strong relationships based on integrity and transparency. Join us in shaping a future where these values drive success and innovation.

Role Summary

This recruitment is based on the terms and conditions as outlined in the Collective Bargaining Agreement.

This position will be scheduled on a rotating 12hr shift. The successful candidate must be willing to work overtime, be available for emergency call-ins, and provide acceptable off-hours contact via telephone. This position works almost exclusively in an office environment.

Responsibilities

• Engages in a training program, focused on a primary river system; and
• Progresses to Hydro Operator II.
• Once qualified, primary responsibilities include remote operation and control of all hydro facilities within areas of jurisdiction, including overseeing local operation and control.
• Starts and stops power generators, adjusts, monitors and maintains generation levels as directed, regulates river flow through the appropriate raising and lowering of gates for water release(s), monitors water levels at our locations, understands the impact of flows from inclement weather and upstream releases, and stays in communication with local maintenance crews and the ISO- New England (Independent System Operator) as needed;
• Ensures we adhere to all applicable FERC, NERC and ISO-NE policies and procedures;
• Develops a working knowledge of company policies and procedures; and
• Performs other duties as required.

Requirements

• Knowledge of basic electricity and power plant physical science desired;
• Basic MS Office applications including Outlook, Word and Excel;
• Ability to master and apply fundamentals of computer operations;
• Excellent mathematical skills and strong attention to detail;
• Excellent oral and written communication skills;
• Knowledge of telephone and email etiquette;
• Able to work effectively in a team environment as well as independently; and
• Ability to multitask and prioritize.

Great River Hydro is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. Great River Hydro is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability, age, or any other legally protected status.

Pay Rate: $39.72/hour