At Associated Electric Cooperative, we're committed to providing reliable energy to the communities we serve with passion and precision. We're a tight-knit team dedicated to keeping the lights on and the energy flowing smoothly across our expansive network!

From technical to operational to professional disciplines, our team brings a wide variety of skills, talents, and expertise to the table. We believe in both dedicating ourselves to excellence and investing in your growth.

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.

Why Join Us

At Associated, you’ll be part of a mission-driven utility that prioritizes reliability, affordability, and sustainability for its member cooperatives. You’ll work on visible, meaningful projects that influence regional energy strategy—and you’ll do it in a collaborative, expert team environment with long-term career potential.

What Associated provides:

• We are committed to rewarding talent with top pay. Your efforts will be recognized with a total compensation package that reflects your experience and contributions.
• Plan for your future with confidence! We offer a robust 401(k) program with a generous employer match to help you build the financial future you deserve.
• We know how important work-life integration is. Recharge with PTO and enjoy paid holidays, ensuring you have time to unwind and pursue your passions outside of work.
• Your health matters to us! Stay covered beginning on your first day of employment with our premier healthcare plan that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family.

At Associated Electric Cooperative, all of our 700+ employees across MO/AR/OK territory play a crucial role in powering our mission! Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting your career, you'll find endless opportunities for career development here. Join us in an environment where your contribution is valued, and your career can thrive as we work together to keep the lights on!

Ready to Energize your career? Visit our website at www.aeci.org/careers to learn more about Associated and apply for a position. 

Equal Opportunity Statement:

AECI is fully committed to the concept and practice of equal opportunity in all aspects of employment. Please reference the contact information below if you require assistance in filling out an application. Individuals with disabilities should request reasonable accommodations in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act prior to an appointment.

An equal opportunity employer and provider/disability/veteran.