As-Needed Operations & Maintenance Engineer

Dudek • Sacramento, CA

5d • $140 - $150 • Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Engineer to provide as‑needed consulting support for a wide range of water infrastructure facilities. The ideal candidate will bring deep technical expertise in the operation, maintenance, and rehabilitation of water conveyance systems, hydropower facilities, agricultural irrigation networks, and pumping plants. The role also includes providing technical guidance and design input for invasive mussel control and mitigation strategies, ensuring the long‑term reliability and regulatory compliance of system operations.
This position is ideal for a highly skilled and flexible engineering professional who enjoys collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, solving complex technical challenges, and supporting the operation of critical water infrastructure assets.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, or related Engineering field.
• 10+ years of experience in O&M engineering in water, hydropower, irrigation, or pumping plant systems.
• Strong knowledge of: Water conveyance operations and maintenance Hydropower system functionality and equipment Agricultural irrigation operations Pumping plant design, controls, and performance evaluation
• Experience with invasive mussel control or aquatic invasive species mitigation in engineered systems.
• Excellent technical writing, communication, and problem‑solving skills.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and have active personal automobile liability insurance by the first day of employment

Nice To Haves

• Professional Engineer (PE) license.
• Experience with federal, state, or regional water agencies or irrigation districts.
• Familiarity with CEQA/NEPA considerations for O&M‑related projects.
• Experience developing asset management plans or reliability-centered maintenance programs.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert engineering consultation on O&M practices, troubleshooting, and performance optimization for: Water conveyance systems (canals, pipelines, tunnels, control structures) Hydropower facilities and auxiliary systems Agricultural irrigation networks and distribution systems Pumping plants and mechanical/electrical systems
• Review, assess, and recommend improvements for preventive and corrective maintenance programs.
• Support condition assessments, site inspections, and development of repair, replacement, and rehabilitation plans.
• Contribute engineering input to the design or modification of: Pumping systems and mechanical equipment packages Hydropower operating components and control systems Conveyance and irrigation system upgrades
• Review technical drawings, specifications, and submittals to ensure quality and operational feasibility.
• Provide science‑based and engineered recommendations for invasive mussel prevention, control, and mitigation within water conveyance and hydropower systems.
• Evaluate and recommend: Chemical treatment methods Mechanical cleaning options Operational strategies Infrastructure design considerations to minimize biofouling
• Support the development of mitigation plans, monitoring programs, and system-specific treatment protocols.
• Participate in interdisciplinary project teams, providing subject matter expertise as needed.
• Prepare technical memoranda, engineering reports, inspection findings, and recommendations.
• Advise clients on regulatory considerations related to water operations, hydropower, and invasive species management.
• Support emergency response efforts for system failures or unexpected operational disruptions, as requested.

Benefits

• As-needed and part-time employees are eligible for our 401(k) plan, sick leave, and our Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• As-needed and part-time employees have the option of additional benefits like medical benefits and ESOP participation provided they meet minimum hours worked during the 12-month look back measurement period.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Mid Level