Group Head – Dam and Hydropower Expert
We are seeking a highly experienced and knowledgeable Senior Dam and Hydropower Expert to lead the planning, design, and execution of large-scale hydropower, PSP, and dam projects across the globe. This role requires deep technical acumen in hydraulic structures, dam safety, hydrology, and power generation systems including the Himalayan region. The ideal candidate will be a thought leader in dam engineering and hydropower development, with a proven track record of managing multidisciplinary teams through all phases of project execution—from conceptual design to commissioning and operational handover.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategic
• Lead the design and review of hydropower, PSP and dam projects including gravity, earth-fill, rockfill, RCC dams, and gated spillways.
• Evaluate feasibility studies, hydrology, and reservoir studies to determine project viability and optimization.
• Guide layout planning of dam, reservoir, water conductor systems (tunnels, canals, penstocks), and powerhouses.
• Provide technical leadership for site selection, DPR preparation, and tendering processes.
• Assess project risks including seismicity, flood management, sedimentation, slope instability, and environmental impacts.
• Represent the company in discussions with regulatory authorities, EPC contractors, consultants, and developers.
• Support techno-commercial evaluations and value engineering exercises.
• Mentor technical teams in innovation, design excellence, and sustainability.
• Support business development in identifying and evaluating potential hydropower assets or opportunities.
Operational
• Oversee hydraulic modelling, physical modelling, flood routing studies, and energy optimization.
• Review geotechnical and structural designs of dam components.
• Guide the design of hydro-mechanical and electro-mechanical systems in coordination with OEMs and design partners.
• Support construction teams in resolving design-related challenges, modifications, and unforeseen conditions.
• Ensure coordination among geology, civil, hydraulic, electrical, and environmental teams.
• Provide technical oversight on grouting programs, foundation treatment, dam instrumentation, and control systems.
• Participate in third-party reviews, inspections, and audits.
• Establish monitoring mechanisms for dam performance and health tracking.
• Ensure compliance with dam safety guidelines issued by CWC, state regulators, and other authorities.
Financial
• Lead cost estimation and budgeting for dam, PSP and hydropower components.
• Contribute to financial modelling by defining realistic CAPEX and OPEX based on technical design.
• Support lifecycle cost analysis and asset management strategies.
• Drive cost-saving initiatives through innovative design and risk mitigation.
People
• Lead multidisciplinary teams across hydrology, civil, geotechnical, H&M and E&M.
• Build technical capabilities through mentoring, training, and technical workshops.
• Collaborate with academic and research institutions on dam safety, hydropower, and sustainability initiatives.
JOB REQUIREMENTS
DESIRED PROFILE
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Education
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Experience
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• Master’s or Ph.D. in Civil Engineering, Hydraulic Engineering, Water Resources Engineering, or related discipline
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• Minimum 20 years of experience in dam and hydropower engineering.
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• At least 10 years in leadership roles for major hydropower projects (≥200 MW), including Himalayan projects.
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• Hands-on experience in the design and review of gravity, embankment, and RCC dams.
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• In-depth exposure to water conductor systems (tunnels, canals), powerhouses, and spillway design.
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• Familiarity with Indian and international guidelines and overall aspects of hydro power as well as PSP projects.
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• Experience in regulatory processes (environmental clearance, dam safety review, etc.).
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• Proficiency in design and modelling software (SAP2000, STAAD, HEC-RAS, GeoStudio, AutoCAD Civil 3D).
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• Experience with PPP or international projects is an added advantage.
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SKILLS REQUIRED TO DELIVER
Functional
• Comprehensive knowledge of hydropower/PSP project planning and design.
• Expertise in dam safety, structural analysis, hydraulic modelling, and hydrology.
• Strong understanding of interdisciplinary coordination in hydro projects.
• Familiarity with the latest technologies in instrumentation, remote sensing, and automation.
• Exposure to climate resilience and sustainability in dam design.
Behavioural
• Leadership and team-building skills across diverse technical domains.
• Strategic and critical thinking with a problem-solving mindset.
• High accountability, ownership, and result orientation.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Adaptability to dynamic and challenging project environments.
• Strong analytical and decision-making abilities.
• Commitment to innovation, sustainability, and continuous improvement.