Hydropower Electrical Engineering Section Manager

Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising; Sacramento (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm is seeking a Hydropower Electrical Engineering Section Manager in California. This role involves managing a team of electrical engineers, overseeing hydropower projects, and ensuring technical excellence. Ideal candidates should have a Bachelor's degree, 10-20 years of hydropower experience, and strong leadership skills. The position offers a full-time status and a commitment to employee equity.

Qualifications

• Proficient in electrical systems and controls.
• 10–20 years of hydropower industry experience required.
• Strong communication and leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor the electrical team.
• Ensure technical excellence in project delivery.
• Serve as Project Manager for hydropower projects.

Skills

Leadership

Technical excellence

Communication

Collaboration

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience

Job description

Hydropower Electrical Engineering Section Manager - ( 191946 )

At HDR, our employee‑owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. We are part of the Power sector, helping shape how electricity is generated, transmitted and delivered as global energy demands grow.

Responsibilities

• Lead a high‑performing electrical team: hire, grow, mentor, and develop technical staff across experience levels; hold responsibility for operations of production and oversight of the electrical section.
• Champion quality control, technical excellence and exceptional delivery.
• Facilitate career development and personal growth among team members.
• Serve as Project Manager and/or Technical Lead for hydropower electrical projects; oversee electrical design plans, specifications, equipment specs, bid reviews and site investigations.
• Support field activities during installation, testing, commissioning and start‑up; coordinate closely with mechanical, structural, civil and controls teams.
• Partner with Power sector and National Hydropower Practice leaders to support local and national initiatives.
• Build relationships with key hydropower owners/operators across utility clients, federal agencies and/or water authorities; support proposals, interviews and strategic pursuits throughout CA and the region.
• Work in partnership with the National Hydropower Practice and overall Power Sector: support local and national marketing and production efforts.
• Perform other duties as needed to support project goals and HDR business activities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Licensed Professional Engineer.
• Proficient in dynamic communication and collaboration.
• Consulting experience supporting client relationships and delivering high‑quality electrical engineering work.
• 10–20 years of extensive hydropower industry experience.
• Technical depth in hydropower electrical systems—generator protection and controls, excitation systems, governor controls, SCADA/DCS, station service, switchyard/substation equipment, relay settings/coordination, arc‑flash/grounding analysis.
• Active engagement in electrical‑focused industry organizations such as IEEE PES, IEEE Hydropower Working Groups, NHA Technical Committees or CEATI Hydropower Electrical Task Forces.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience.
• A minimum of 10 years experience.
• Professional registration, license or certification may be required based on role.
• Strong communication and listening skills.
• Ability to handle multiple assignments.
• Good leadership and organizational skills.
• An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee‑owned culture is a must.

Location

Walnut Creek; Folsom, California, United States

Job type

Full‑time, Regular employee status

At HDR, we are committed to the principles of employment equity.

We are an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants, regardless of criminal histories, arrest and conviction records.