Senior Hydro Plant Operator

Chelan County Public Utility District (PUD); Wenatchee (WA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 109,000; Full time

Job summary

Chelan PUD, based in Washington, is hiring a Journeyman Operator to support operation of the Rocky Reach and Rock Island dams. The role requires test, inspection, switching and coordination with maintenance teams to ensure reliable hydropower generation.

The position emphasizes safety, compliance with RCW/WAC, and the ability to train apprentices. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States and submit a resume in PDF format.

Qualifications

• Completion of a recognized operator apprentice program (journeyman status) or equivalent cross craft operator-in-training experience is required.
• 3+ years of documented, relevant power plant operator experience (journeyman status) is required.

Responsibilities

• Control Room: manage switching and control for water releases, electrical production, voltage regulation, and station services; test, diagnose and take corrective action as needed.
• Inspections: regularly check generators, turbines, transformers, switchgear, and related equipment to ensure proper operation.
• Switching/configuration: perform authorized, high-voltage switching and plant clearances as directed by supervisors.
• Communication: maintain status updates and write reports to keep leadership informed of plant operations.
• Training: assist in training apprentices and other personnel; participate in safety orientation as needed.

Skills

Power plant operation

High voltage switching

Safety compliance

Documentation & reporting

Communication skills

Education

No post-secondary education required

Tools

Maximo Asset Management

IFix

PeopleSoft Timekeeping/HR

Microsoft Excel

Maximo Order Processing

Job description

Chelan PUD, based in Washington, is hiring a Journeyman Operator to support operation of the Rocky Reach and Rock Island dams. The role requires test, inspection, switching and coordination with maintenance teams to ensure reliable hydropower generation.

The position emphasizes safety, compliance with RCW/WAC, and the ability to train apprentices. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States and submit a resume in PDF format.