Hydropower Electrical Engineering Section Manager

HDR; Walnut Creek (CA); On-site; USD 134,442 - 218,250; Full time

Job summary

A leading hydropower firm is seeking a Hydropower Electrical Engineering Section Manager to lead modernization projects across California. You will mentor an electrical team, serve as project manager for hydropower projects, and engage with clients and business development. The ideal candidate has extensive hydropower experience (10-20+ years) and strong communication skills. This full-time position offers a competitive compensation range from $134,442 to $218,250 annually.

Qualifications

• Proficient in dynamic communication and collaboration.
• Minimum of 10 years experience required.
• Active engagement in electrical-focused industry organizations.
• Technical depth in hydropower electrical systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead a high-performing electrical team across various experience levels.
• Serve as project manager and/or technical lead for hydropower projects.
• Coordinate with mechanical, structural, civil, and controls teams.
• Build relationships with hydropower owners/operators and support proposals.
• Support marketing and production efforts as needed.

Skills

Dynamic communication

Collaboration

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience

Job description

Hydropower Electrical Engineering Section Manager – HDR, Northern California.

At HDR, we are committed to creating an inclusive environment where each employee is valued, respected, and empowered. Our mission is to shape how electricity is generated, transmitted, and delivered as global energy demands grow.

HDR is the #2 hydropower firm in the U.S. (2025 ENR). This role leads modernization projects and a multidisciplinary team across California, the Southwest, and the nation.

Responsibilities

• Lead a high‑performing electrical team: hire, mentor, and develop staff across experience levels; oversee operations of production and electrical section; champion quality control and technical excellence; facilitate career development.
• Own electrical project leadership: serve as project manager and/or technical lead for hydropower projects; oversee design plans, equipment specifications, bid reviews, and site investigations; support field activities during installation, testing, commissioning, and start‑up.
• Drive collaboration across power & hydropower: coordinate with mechanical, structural, civil, and controls teams; partner with power sector and national hydropower practice leaders to support local and national initiatives.
• Engage directly with clients & business development: build relationships with hydropower owners/operators in utilities, federal agencies, and water authorities; support proposals and strategic pursuits; partner with business development and client management teams.
• Work in partnership with the national hydropower practice and overall power sector: support 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 high‑quality electrical engineering work.
• Extensive hydropower industry experience, ideally 10–20+ years.
• Technical depth in hydropower electrical systems: generator protection; excitation and 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.
• Minimum of 10 years experience.
• Professional registration, license or certification may be required.
• Strong communication and listening skills.
• Ability to handle multiple assignments.
• Good leadership and organizational skills.
• Commitment to active participation in an employee‑owned culture.

Compensation & Location

• Compensation range: $134,442 – $218,250 annually.
• Primary location: Sacramento, California.
• Other locations: Walnut Creek, California; Folsom, California.
• Full‑time, regular employee status.
• Schedule: full‑time.
• Business class: Hydropower.

HDR is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are considered, regardless of criminal histories, arrest, and conviction records.