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Jobs · Consulting · California

Hydropower Engineering Manager (Electrical Design)

HDR · Walnut Creek, CA · 1 wk ago
On-siteConsulting$134k–$218k/yrFull-time

About the role

HDR is seeking a Hydropower Engineering Manager (Electrical Design) to join our expanding Northern California team and help drive one of the nation’s most recognized hydropower programs. In 2025, ENR ranked HDR #2 in Hydropower among the top firms delivering services for hydropower owners and operators. 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 over a century.

This role offers the opportunity to lead complex modernization projects, inspire a talented multidisciplinary team, and influence marquee hydropower projects. You’ll contribute to reliable, resilient, and sustainable power systems, helping communities thrive and industries expand.

Responsibilities

  • Hire, grow, mentor, and develop technical staff across experience levels, including responsibility for operations of production and oversight of the electrical section.
  • Champion quality control, technical excellence, and exceptional delivery.
  • Facilitate career development and personal growth among team members.
  • Serve as Project Manager and/or Technical Lead for hydropower electrical projects.
  • Oversee electrical design plans and specifications, equipment specifications, bid reviews, and site investigations.
  • Support field activities during installation, testing, commissioning, and start-up.
  • Coordinate closely with mechanical, structural, civil, and controls teams.
  • Partner with Power sector and National Hydropower Practice leaders to support local and national initiatives.
  • Build relationships with key hydropower owners/operators across utility clients, federal agencies, and/or water authorities.
  • Support proposals, interviews, and strategic pursuits throughout California and across the region.
  • Partner with the Power Business Development and Client Management teams.
  • Support local and national marketing and production efforts.
  • Perform other duties as needed to support project goals and HDR business activities.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
  • A minimum of 10 years of experience in hydropower engineering/design.
  • Licensed Professional Engineer (US licensure).
  • Technical depth in hydropower electrical systems, including generator protection and controls, excitation systems, governor controls, SCADA/DCS, station service, switchyard/substation equipment, relay settings/coordination, and arc-flash/grounding analysis.
  • Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
  • Ability to handle multiple assignments and an active commitment to our employee-owned culture.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Proficient and engaging in dynamic communication and collaboration.
  • Consulting experience supporting client relationships and delivering high-quality electrical engineering work.
  • Active engagement in electrical-focused industry organizations such as IEEE PES, IEEE Hydropower Working Groups, NHA Technical Committees, or CEATI Hydropower Electrical Task Forces.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive benefits package promoting employee ownership, health, performance, and success, including medical, dental, vision, short- and long-term disability, life insurance, an employee assistance program, paid time away, parental leave, paid holidays, and a retirement savings plan with employer match.
  • Employee referral bonus and tuition reimbursement (for full-time regular positions).
  • Eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) fostering inclusion and support.

Pay

The expected compensation range for this position is $134,442.00 - $218,250.00 annually, depending on skills, experience, education, and geographical location.

Schedule

Full-time, regular position.

Locations

United States-California-Sacramento (primary). Other locations: United States-California-Walnut Creek, United States-California-Folsom.

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