Structural Engineer - Hydro

Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising

Portland (ME)

Hybrid

USD 80,000 - 100,000

Full time

14 days+

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Job summary

A leading engineering firm is seeking a Structural Engineer to join their Hydropower Practice. The role involves supporting structural design and assessments for hydraulic projects, requiring a Bachelor's degree in Civil or Structural Engineering and a PE license. The preferred candidate should be self-motivated, capable of working independently and collaboratively on innovative projects. This position offers opportunities for career growth in a hybrid work environment based in Portland, Maine.

Qualifications

Familiarity with concrete dams and structural steel gates is desirable.
Previous experience with hydropower and dams is a plus.
Ability to perform field inspections at power generation facilities.

Responsibilities

Support inspections and engineering assessments of existing structures.
Conduct analyses, evaluations, and designs for hydraulic structures.
Work with multi-disciplinary teams on hydropower projects.

Skills

Self-motivated

Critical thinking

Team collaboration

Client interaction

Education

Bachelor's degree in Civil or Structural Engineering

Professional Engineer (PE) license

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 foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?

Each and every 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. Check out the difference Employee‑Ownership makes at HDR!

We believe electricity powers modern life. As part of our Power sector, you’ll help shape how electricity is generated, transmitted and delivered as global energy demands grow. From massive data centers to modernizing transmission systems, our industry‑recognized engineers and scientists have been at the forefront of grid transformation for more than a century. You’ll work side‑by‑side with these experts and contribute to reliable, resilient and sustainable power systems, helping communities thrive and industries expand. This isn’t just a job, it’s a chance to drive infrastructure forward, power innovation and leave your mark on our energy future.

HDR is looking for a Structural Engineer to join our thriving and growing Hydropower Practice. HDR is a hydropower and dam safety industry leader. Our national Hydropower Practice engineering and regulatory team offers core services such as mechanical, electrical, structural, geotechnical, and site civil engineering expertise in addition to environmental scientists and regulatory specialists. Hydropower generation is recognized as a critical and renewable component of the US energy portfolio, and our team provides engineering consulting services to all types of hydropower owners located across the U.S. and Canada. If you are looking for a vibrant work environment with career growth opportunities and the chance to work on innovative hydropower, pumped‑storage, and dam safety projects, we welcome the opportunity to speak with you. Hybrid or flexible work locations will be considered.

We are seeking a Structural Engineer with the technical skills and desire to help support structural engineering design, repair and retrofit hydropower projects as part of our nationally recognized Hydropower Practice.

Primary duties of the Structural Engineer include:

Support inspections and engineering assessments of existing dams and water retaining structures.
Conduct analyses, evaluations and designs; develop design options or recommendations with supporting calculations.
Preparation of contract documents including drawings, specifications, design documentation and criteria, and cost estimates including critical reports for various new and/or rehabilitation of hydraulic structures, including dams, spillways, gates, outlet works, diversion structures, retaining walls, floodwalls, water conveyance structures, foundations, etc.
Perform engineering assignments that may require critical thinking and creativity to address unique elements that have limited or no specific code based guidance.
Work with multi-disciplinary teams on a variety of hydropower, pumped‑storage, and dam safety engineering projects.
Work independently as project engineer and provide oversight, checking, QA/QC, and mentorship of staff as needed or if required.
Participate in risk assessments for dams and hydraulic structures.
Some travel is required.

Preferred Qualifications

Familiarity with concrete dams, structural steel gates, and stability of concrete structures is desirable but not required.
Previous experience with hydropower and dams is a plus.
Ability to perform field inspections at operating power generation facilities or dams.
Ability to independently direct the design of projects from proposal to completion.
Self‑motivated, able to work independently and with a project team to completion of task.
Experience working in a multi‑discipline environment.
Experience interacting with clients.
An attitude and commitment to quality, teaming, innovative problem solving, communication, relationship management, and the culture that is integral to our employee ownership model.
Ability to travel as needed for inspections, meetings or other requirements.
Preference given to local candidates.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Structural Engineering
Professional Engineer (PE) license
Previous experience with an architectural/engineering or engineering consulting firm
An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee‑owned culture is a must

What We Believe

HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.

Our Commitment

As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.

Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.

Primary Location

United States - Maine - Portland

Industry

Power

Schedule

Full‑time

Employee Status

Regular

Job Posting

Mar 23, 2026

Employment Equity Statement

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