At Associated Electric, we’re looking for a driven Principal Hydropower Engineer to help safeguard and modernize one of the most important clean, dispatchable energy resources in our portfolio: hydropower. Your expertise will directly influence the long-term viability and value of a large federal hydropower asset portfolio under cost-based contracts and shared customer funding decisions.

This high-impact role serves as the technical advisor for Associated and a broader hydropower customer group, helping guide investment strategy and optimize operations and maintenance across approximately 60 hydropower units totally nearly 2000 MW. You’ll collaborate with internal teams and federal partners to make smart, data-driven decisions that sustain performance, reduce risk, and maximize asset value.

What you'll do:

• Lead hydropower project planning and oversight, from scoping through execution
• Evaluate design strategies and funding priorities to optimize investment decisions
• Analyze value, cost, risk, reliability and feasibility for major hydroelectric projects
• Partner with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Southwestern Power Administration, and the Southwestern Power Resources Association to align on project goals
• Manage budgets, technical reviews, vendor selection, and performance reporting

What you’ll need:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Civil Engineering—or equivalent experience
• At least 10  years of experience in power plant engineering, ideally with hydroelectric systems
• Strong understanding of plant operations, equipment, and maintenance planning
• Proficiency in project management and cost tracking tools
• Familiarity with USACE directives and hydropower policy guidance (preferred)

We anticipate hiring at the Principal level, but we welcome applications from candidates at different experience levels whose qualifications and strengths align with the needs of the position.

About Associated Electric Cooperative, Inc

As an employer of choice and a certified Great Place to Work, Associated provides employees competitive compensation, 401k with an employer match, health, paid leave for family planning (including adoption), paid disability leave and other benefits. We support employees in their journey to physical, financial, emotional and social well-being and we encourage employees to enjoy time away with Paid Time Off, paid holidays and volunteerism in community events. Associated’s culture includes workforce flexibility options with opportunities for personal and professional growth including tuition reimbursement and development planning resources. Come join a team where your talents are appreciated, your voice is heard, and your work has an impact!

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