Hydro Generation Facility Mechanic, Cowlitz

Position Description

Tacoma Power is establishing a Hydro Generation Facility Mechanic list for future vacancies at our Mossyrock location (Lewis County)!

Hydroelectric Mechanics perform skilled work in the journey-level maintenance and repair of equipment associated with the operations of a hydroelectric generation facilities, fish facilities, parks, and heavy equipment and vehicles. The position requires the combined mastery of a mechanic, machinist, millwright, welder; as well as working knowledge of industrial refrigeration and air conditioning; and understanding of basic electricity.

The ideal candidate has an exceptional mechanical mind and demonstrated ability to solve complex mechanical problems and troubleshoot elaborate mechanical systems in a manner that complies with all applicable safety policies and procedures.

We have a great team of dedicated, hardworking professionals. This candidate needs to work well with others in a collaborative crew environment.

As a Hydro Project Mechanic, you’ll have an opportunity to:

• Inspect, install, maintain, and repair equipment associated with the operations of hydroelectric generating facilities and hatcheries, including pumps, valves, overhead cranes, emergency generators, hydroelectric governors and associated auxiliary equipment.
• Perform preventative maintenance, troubleshoot, and repair equipment associated with the operations of fish facilities, to include pumps, screens, fish crowders, water supply and water treatment systems.
• Inspect, maintain and repair of heavy equipment, work boats, and emergency generators associated with the operations of the hydro project.
• Make drawings or plans and fabricate hardware from raw materials using shop equipment and machinery
• Maintain project well and potable water systems, raw water disposal and fire maintenance systems
• Lead a work party in performing maintenance or repair work
• May perform other related incidental work
• Assist the System Power Dispatcher in plant control

Work is performed indoors and outdoors in varying weather; in high or confined places or near high voltage power lines and in loud environments.

For more information about Tacoma Power's Hydroelectric Projects, please go to the Tacoma Public Utilities website at http://www.mytpu.org/tacomapower/about-tacoma-power/dams-power-sources/hydro-power .

Qualifications

Graduation from high school or equivalent, valid driver’s license and one of the following:

Three years training in industrial mechanical maintenance and three of the last five years’ experience as a journey-level mechanic involving industrial mechanical and maintenance duties
OR
Completion of a recognized mechanical apprenticeship program and three of the last five years experience as a journey-level mechanic involving industrial mechanical and maintenance duties
OR
A minimum of two of the last five years as a journey-level mechanic/machinist at a hydroelectric generating station
OR
A current City of Tacoma Hydroelectric Utility Worker who has a minimum of three years documented experience as a journey-level mechanic performing industrial mechanical and maintenance duties.

LICENSES, CERTIFICATES AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS
Valid Washington State Class A Commercial Driver’s License required before completion of probation with maintenance thereafter.

Tanker endorsement required at designated Project locations.

First Aid, CPR, flagging and forklift certification required prior to completion of probationary period with maintenance thereafter.

Be granted unrestricted respirator clearance at time of appointment with maintenance thereafter.

Knowledge & Skills

• Methods, equipment and materials used in mechanical maintenance and repair, construction, carpentry, plumbing, air conditioning/heating and basic electricity
• Interpret and apply health and safety regulations
• Interpret and apply applicable laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures
• Apply basic First Aid and CPR procedures
• Interpret and apply the principles of mechanics, fluids and hydraulics as used in power generation and associated equipment
• Interpret and apply the principles of basic operation of hydroelectric plants
• Obtain and hold safety clearances on rotating equipment for maintenance purposes
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing
• Operate and maintain lathes, mills, drills and common machine shop tools and equipment
• Prepare and use rigging for lifting heavy loads by crane or portable equipment
• Use a variety of welding and cutting equipment
• Use machines and hand tools in performing carpentry, painting, plumbing, cement work and vehicle service and repair
• Operate cranes and hoists
• Analyze situations accurately and adopt an effective course of action
• Work independently with little direction
• Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others
• Prepare and work from blueprints, shop drawings and sketches
• Prepare and present accurate and reliable reports containing findings and recommendations
• Operate a personal computer using standard or customized software applications appropriate to assigned tasks

Selection Process & Supplemental Information

This recruitment is being managed by Kye Merritt. If you would like to be notified of similar opportunities or stay connected with things going on at Tacoma Public Utilities and the City of Tacoma, connect with her on LinkedIn.

City of Tacoma Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
At the City of Tacoma, we're on a mission to make our workforce as diverse and inclusive as the community we serve. We're committed to eliminating racial and other disparities, and we actively seek out candidates from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. Join our team at the City of Tacoma and help us build a more vibrant, inclusive, and equitable community for all.

Tacoma Power
Tacoma Power is an almost 100% hydroelectric, municipally-owned public power utility, located in Tacoma. We serve approximately 170,000 customers as one of the three operating divisions of Tacoma Public Utilities, alongside Tacoma Water and Tacoma Rail. As one of the most livable, walkable cities in the country, you'll find that Tacoma is a great fit for all interests with places to bike, run, hike, and explore, the perks of a big city, and the charm of a small town.

The City of Tacoma
The City of Tacoma is nestled along the shores of Commencement Bay in Washington State and offers many community parks, miles of beautiful waterfront, hiking & biking trails, golf courses, museums, and a world-class zoo with an aquarium. Tacoma also serves as a gateway to some of the most magnificent natural wonders in the world, such as Puget Sound, Mount Rainier National Park, and the Olympic Peninsula. Combined with the vitality of downtown, Tacoma has made it one of the most sought-after housing markets in the country. To see a few of the great things Tacoma has to offer, view this YouTube Video!

Apply
Interested individuals should apply online and attach a resume and cover letter that includes major responsibilities and accomplishments related to the position.

Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications will have their responses to the supplemental questions evaluated by a panel of subject matter experts.

HIRING REQUIREMENTS
Individuals given a conditional offer of employment must also pass a background check and a pre-employment medical examination that includes a drug screen and respirator certification.

This position is covered by a Labor Agreement between The City of Tacoma and IBEW Local 483. New employees must successfully complete a nine-month probationary period prior to obtaining permanent status in this classification.

Communication from the City of Tacoma:
We primarily communicate via email during the application process. Emails from cityoftacoma.org and/or governmentjobs.com must be placed on your safe domain list to ensure that you receive notifications in a timely manner. As a precaution, you may also want to check your junk email folders.

In order for your application materials to be considered, all information must be submitted by the closing date and time listed on this job announcement.

For assistance with the NEOGOV application process, questions regarding this job announcement, or if you are experiencing complications while applying, please contact the Human Resources office at (253) 591.5400 by 4:00 pm of the closing date of the job announcement. This will allow us to assist you before the job announcement closes.

The City of Tacoma provides excellent medical, dental and vision plans for the whole family; paid holidays and paid leave; participation in the Tacoma Employees' Retirement System (alternate plan for Police/Fire); continuing education and advancement opportunities and a growing variety of City-sponsored health and wellness opportunities and incentives.

Medical Coverage: For eligible employees and their families, including domestic partners and dependent children age26 or younger.

Dental Coverage: For eligible employees and their families, including domestic partners and dependent children age26 or younger.

Vision Coverage: For eligible employees and their eligible dependents.

Paid Leave: City employees are entitled to received paid holidays, sick/vacation leave or personal time off (PTO), depending upon union affiliation and appointment type.

Insurance Plans: Employees are covered by a long-term disability plan. Short-term and expanded long-term disability insurance plans are also available to employees. The State Industrial Insurance Act also covers employees.

Deferred Compensation: Income can be set aside on a pretax basis and invested for supplementation of normal retirement income.

Retirement: All employees of the City, except members of the Police and Fire services, Tacoma Rail and certain project employees, are included in the Tacoma Employees' Retirement System. Information on the Tacoma Employees' Retirement System can be found at www.cityoftacoma.org or by calling (253) 502-8200.

Other Employment Information

Direct Deposit: Employees are paid on a bi-weekly schedule by direct deposit.

Salary Increases: Based on satisfactory job performance, the City provides for a regular progression of salary increases for most classifications according to the salary schedule.

Union Affiliation: Many job classifications are covered by union security provisions which require union membership, dues, or payment of equivalent service fees.

Note: The provisions of this job announcement do not constitute an expressed or implied contract. Any provision contained herein may be modified and/or revoked without notice.

Closing Date/Time: 3/23/2026 5:00 PM Pacific

• 

• City of Tacoma

• 253-591-5400

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