Hydropower Mechanical Engineering Team Lead

HDR; Sacramento (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in hydropower is seeking a Hydropower Mechanical Engineering Team Lead to oversee operations in Northern California. This role involves project management, team leadership, and client engagement in a collaborative environment. Ideal candidates will have extensive experience in the power industry and strong leadership skills.

Qualifications

• 7+ years in the power industry with hydropower experience.
• Professional registration or certification as required.

Responsibilities

• Lead the hydropower mechanical engineering practice.
• Manage operations, staff hiring, and quality control.
• Engage with clients in marketing and project delivery.

Skills

Communication

Leadership

Project Management

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Hydraulic Systems

HVAC

Piping

Turbines

Valves

Job description

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. As we work to weave diversity, equity, and inclusion into our work and foster a sense of belonging throughout the company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?

Watch Our Story: https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story

Each role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world.

HDR has an immediate opening for a Hydropower Mechanical Engineering Team Lead to join our Northern California team and be a part of our vibrant and growing national hydropower practice that ENR ranks Number 2 in the Top 10 firms providing services to owners and operators of hydropower plants. Primary responsibilities include leading the hydropower mechanical engineering practice in Northern California, overseeing project management and team activities, and engaging in business development and client relations. Our NorCal hydropower practice serves as a vital hub linking expertise across our Power and Water sectors, supporting projects throughout California, the southwestern U.S., and nationwide. This role combines leadership, technical expertise, and business development.

As Hydropower Mechanical Engineering Team Lead, you will:

1. Manage operations of the mechanical section, including staff hiring, development, mentorship, and quality control.
2. Serve as Project Manager and/or Technical Lead, responsible for project production, equipment reviews, site inspections, and field support during installation, testing, and startup.
3. Handle administrative responsibilities for the section and coordinate services with other power and hydropower teams.
4. Engage with hydropower clients in marketing, project delivery, and proposal preparation.
5. Ensure all work is planned, organized, and executed with proactive project management and quality standards.
6. Train, develop, and manage technical personnel and multidisciplinary teams.
7. Collaborate with national hydropower and power sector teams on marketing and project efforts.
8. Perform additional duties to support project goals and business activities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in client relationship management within consulting.
• 7+ years in the power industry, with engagement in hydropower or engineering associations (e.g., ASME, NHA).
• Experience with large valves, turbines, piping, rotating equipment, and power station mechanical systems (e.g., cooling water, hydraulics, HVAC).

*LI-MO1

Keywords: hydro, hydro power, hydroelectric, power generation, Team Lead, Manager, Supervisor, Lead Engineer

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience
• At least 7 years of relevant experience
• Professional registration or certification as required
• Strong communication and leadership skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects
• Commitment to our employee-owned culture

What We Believe

HDR values diverse perspectives and fosters a collaborative culture that builds trust and connects us to our clients and communities.

Our Commitment

We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone is welcomed, valued, and empowered. Our Employee Network Groups support belonging and engagement across different identities and experiences.