Hydropower Electrical Engineering Section Manager

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?

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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.

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 seeking a Hydropower Electrical Engineering Section Manager 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 - and we keep growing to meet our Client's needs.

If you're ready to lead complex modernization projects, inspire a talented multidisciplinary team, and influence hydropower across California, the Southwest, and the nation - this role is built for you.

As our Hydropower Electrical Engineering Section Manager, you will shape the strategy, growth, technical excellence, recruiting and retention of our Nor Cal hydropower electrical practice.

Responsibilities include:

Lead a High Performing Electrical Team

* Hire, grow, mentor, and develop technical staff across experience levels. This includes responsibility for operations of production and oversight of electrical section.

* Champion quality control, technical excellence, and exceptional delivery.

* Facilitate

Career development and personal growth amongst team members.

Own Electrical Project Leadership

* 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.

Drive Collaboration Across Power & Hydropower

* Coordinate closely with mechanical, structural, civil, and controls teams.

* Partner with Power sector and National Hydropower Practice leaders to support local and national initiatives.

Engage Directly with Clients & Business Development

* Build relationships with key hydropower owners/operators across utility clients, federal agencies and/or water authorities.

* Support proposals, interviews, and strategic pursuits throughout CA and across the region.

* Partner with the Power Business Development and Client Management teams.

Work in partnership with the National Hydropower Practice and overall Power Sector:

* Support local and national marketing and production efforts.

* Perform other duties as needed:
Support project goals and HDR business activities.

Preferred Qualifications:

* Licensed Professional Engineer.

* Proficient and engaging in dynamic communication and collaboration.

* Consulting experience supporting client relationships and delivering high‑quality electrical engineering work.

* Extensive hydropower industry experience, ideally 10-20 years.

* Technical depth in hydropower electrical systems - generator protection and controls, excitation systems, governor controls, SCADA/DCS, station service, switchyard/substation equipment, relay settings/coordination, and arc‑flash/grounding analysis.

* Active engagement in electrical‑focused industry organizations such as IEEE PES,…