Hydro Technician Training Program
If you like to see how complicated machinery works, maintain equipment in top condition, and learn about operations in a hydropower facility, this program may be for you. It is a paid training program lasting about 30 months that leads to the position of Level III Hydro Technician. These technicians are trained in all aspects of operation and maintenance of a hydro generation plant, as well as flow control of the river system and tributaries. They monitor equipment conditions and performance, accomplish preventive and minor maintenance routines, and conduct process-control and failure analyses. They operate plant equipment such as turbines, pumps, valves, gates, fans, electric control boards, and battery banks.
The training program consists of a combination of on-the-job and classroom instruction. The first 16 months of training is conducted at a central training facility other than the selected worksite. Therefore, relocation and reimbursement is involved, for which TVA covers the associated costs in accordance with its policies and practices. Shift work is required as well as the ability to work overtime. Due to the remoteness of some hydro plants and other work locations, considerable time may be spent driving company vehicles to and from worksites.
The work environment involves exposure to heat, cold, dampness, grease, dirt, noise, solvents, lubrication and insulating oil, welding fumes, and dust. Temperatures range from extreme heat (105 degrees) to extreme cold (-10 degrees). Work may be performed during inclement weather (rain, snow, wind, ice, etc).
The work is performed around rotating equipment, in electrical switchyards exposed to voltages as high as 500kV, over water, in watercraft or on floating platforms, on concrete flooring and/or open grating, on steep inclines, and on various types of ladders and scaffolding. Heights may exceed 50 feet. Work may be performed in confined spaces such as storage tanks, oil circuit breakers, and station sumps.
Safety considerations require proper personal protective equipment, including footwear, hearing protection, eye protection, hard hats, etc., and use of respiratory protection. The employee will be trained in incipient fire fighting and may be needed for fire command duties, which requires full turnout gear (SCBA included).
Physical requirements of the position include frequent lifting up to 50 pounds; occasional lifting up to 75 pounds; standing, stooping, and kneeling, occasionally for extended periods of time on concrete floors or open gratings; climbing stairs, ladders and scaffolding; walking on uneven ground; bending, squatting, pushing, pulling, twisting, raking, and shoveling; and performing work above shoulder height. Position requires S08-Crane Operator testing, respirator fit testing, and ability to distinguish colors.
Salary
Current pay for the training program is as follows:
- Period 1: $ 41,900
- Period 2: $ 46,390
- Period 3: $ 50,880
- Period 4: $ 53,875
- Period 5: $ 59,860
Once you have successfully completed the training, you are a Hydro Technician. Current pay for the position is $ 64,050.
Eligibility Factors
In order to be considered for this training program, a candidate must have two years of Algebra 1 or higher at the high school or college level and must meet one of the criteria below:
- AAS degree in mechanical engineering technology, industrial maintenance or electrical engineering technology from a regionally accredited educational institution (i.e. SACS accreditation); or
- Formal craft apprenticeship; or
- Successful completion of electrical or mechanical program from a regionally accredited vocational school (two or more years in duration); or
- Other equivalencies such as certain military training (related to power industry) or completion of a certain number of college hours (including technical subjects such as mechanical or electrical); or
- Other equivalencies that are evaluated on a one-on-one basis by recruiters
Candidates who meet the qualifications for this position and who follow the process of applying may be asked to take a pre-qualifying test that predicts performance in training and on the job. Candidates must pass this test to be considered for an interview. Read information about the testing process.
TVA is an Equal Opportunity employer and complies with all applicable laws and regulations regarding equal employment opportunities.
Non-U.S. residents should read TVA's Citizenship Policy.
Individuals interested in claiming veteran’s preference should read the Information for Claiming Veteran's Preference.
