A Hydroelectric Plant Technician operates and maintains the machinery and controls that generate power using hydroelectric energy. They ensure the efficient and safe production of electricity from water resources.
Education: High school diploma or equivalent
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: Long-term
Projected Growth: -12.5% (negative growth)
Annual job openings: 2 500
Direct AI exposure: 0% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 15% of tasks
| Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2025 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Other Labourers in Processing, Manufacturing and Utilities. According to the wage tables, average income is $74K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $50K per year | $60K per year | $74K per year | $94K per year | $115K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $9.01K above the national average. | ||||
Technicians work in hydroelectric power plants, often located in remote areas near water sources like rivers and dams. The environment may involve working in confined spaces, at heights, or outdoors, sometimes in adverse weather conditions. Shift work can be common, including nights and weekends.
Hydroelectric Plant Technicians play a critical role in the renewable energy sector. They manage the day-to-day operations of hydroelectric power plants, ensuring that the facilities run efficiently and safely. This involves a combination of hands-on mechanical work and technical monitoring.
Understanding how water flow is converted into electrical energy is key for these technicians. They must be skilled in both the mechanical aspects, like maintaining turbines and generators, and the electrical components, including control systems and power distribution.
The job requires a strong commitment to safety and environmental stewardship, as hydroelectric plants must operate within strict regulatory frameworks. Technicians often work as part of a team, though some tasks may require independent problem-solving.
Typically, a high school diploma is required, along with post-secondary training such as a college diploma or certificate in electrical technology, mechanical technology, power engineering, or a related field. Some positions may also require industry certifications or safety training.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.