What Kind of Jobs Can You Find With Hydropower?
Because hydropower is a renewable resource and an environmentally friendly way to generate electricity, jobs associated with the field are considered “green.” There are a wide range of jobs in the hydropower industry, from dealing with the qualities of the water to designing, constructing and maintaining hydroelectric plants. Jobs include hydrologists, plant efficiency experts, installers and maintenance workers.
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Hydropower and “Green” Jobs
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People involved in hydropower harness the force of water to produce electricity. Hydropower workers are concerned with generating energy from a renewable source – water. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in the field of hydropower qualify as “green” jobs because they benefit the environment by conserving natural resources. To create hydroelectricity, the gravitational force of flowing water is used to generate electricity. This low-cost electricity can be used by consumers located far from the original water source. Hydroelectricity is the most widespread form of renewable energy, and there are many jobs associated with the industry.
Hydrologist Jobs
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Hydrology is the study of how water flows under the earth’s crust and around rocks. Hydrologists and echydrologists study the movement of water along with its distribution and properties. Some hydrologists are involved in planning large water projects like hydropower, while others are involved with water resource management. Still others find tunnels that carry water that can be used for drinking to draught-stricken areas or measure the effects of contaminants like pesticides and industrial waste. To obtain a position as a hydrologist, the candidate typically requires at least a four-year bachelor’s degree, although many positions require a master’s degree or higher. A degree in hydrology is science and math oriented with coursework in hydrogeophysics and the interaction between surface water and groundwater.
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Hydroelectric Plant Efficiency Operator Jobs
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Operations that provide hydroelectric power are large and complex, although they are environmentally friendly and can be considered a green energy source. Hydroelectric plant efficiency operators make routine inspections of plant equipment, gather data and read meters and gauges. They use their experience and expertise to keep hydroelectric equipment in good condition to avoid power interruptions. To obtain a job as a hydroelectric plant efficiency operator, candidates may not need a college degree. Instead, the individual participates in a long period of on-the-job training and an apprentice program. Apprentice operators can take advantage of vocational school and college courses in such areas as mechanical drawing, electronics, physics and math.
Installation and Maintenance Hydropower Jobs
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Other hydropower jobs include micro hydropower system installers who design, construct and maintain hydro systems. They may be responsible for site evaluation to assess the capacity of a water source; system design, taking into consideration client needs and possible existing structures; construction including electrical and mechanical components like generators; and troubleshooting. Training courses are available at technical schools and online. Hydroelectric operations maintenance workers inspect water-powered electrical generators and maintain equipment including electric motors, switch gears, pumps, hydraulics, water transmission systems and flood channels. Hands-on experience along with a background in mechanical or electrical engineering is a plus in landing this position.
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References
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