Hydropower Engineering Manager (Electrical Design)
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 — 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 marquee hydropower projects — this role is built for you.
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.
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?
Watch Our Story\:' https\://www.hdrinc.com/our-story'
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.
As our Hydropower Engineering Manager (Electrical), you will shape the strategy, growth, technical excellence, recruiting and retention of our NorCal hydropower electrical practice.
Responsibilities include\:
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.
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 CA 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\: Support project goals and HDR business activities.
Preferred Qualifications\:
Proficient and engaging in dynamic communication and collaboration.
Consulting experience supporting client relationships and delivering high‑quality electrical engineering work.
Extensive hydropower engineering/design experience, ideally 10 or more 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, IEEE Hydropower Working Groups, NHA Technical Committees, or CEATI Hydropower Electrical Task Forces.
Additionally required qualifications\:
Licensed Professional Engineer (US licensure)
*LI-MO1