Job Description

Power the Future of the Columbia Basin - Join Us as a Mechanical Crew Lead

Columbia Basin Trust is seeking three Mechanical Crew Leads to help power the future of the Columbia Basin. These positions supervise the mechanical trades team at one of our shared hydroelectric assets with Columbia Power: Waneta Expansion, Brilliant Expansion or Arrow Lakes. As a Mechanical Crew Lead, you will champion a strong safety culture and oversee daily mechanical maintenance, testing, troubleshooting and repairs on turbines, governors, gates and auxiliary systems. You will also support continuous improvement and foster a collaborative team culture.


This is a permanent, full-time role based in Castlegar, where you'll enjoy a collaborative and supportive team environment and the unique lifestyle of the West Kootenay region.


Salary Range: $98,100 - $115,300


Reporting to the Plant Supervisor, you will:

Conduct safety planning, hazard assessments, and enforce critical procedures such as lockout/tagout, confined space entry, and rigging safety. Mentor crew members and apprentices on safe practices and take immediate action when unsafe conditions or behaviours are observed. Assign tasks, provide direction, and foster a collaborative team culture while supporting apprenticeship and career development. Perform maintenance and repairs on turbines, governors, hydraulic systems, bearings, gates, and auxiliary plant systems.

What We're Looking For

Red Seal Millwright (Industrial Mechanic) or equivalent mechanical trade certification. 5-7 years of industrial or utility mechanical maintenance experience, preferably in hydroelectric generation. Minimum 2 years in a lead-hand, crew lead or mentorship role. Proven experience maintaining and overhauling hydro turbines, governors, bearings and auxiliary mechanical systems. Demonstrated safety leadership in mechanical and heavy industrial environments. Strong people leadership skills, with the ability to build trust, accountability and engagement. Valid Class 5 BC Driver's License with an acceptable driving record.

Why Join Us?

Impactful Work: Operate hydroelectric facilities that power communities across the Columbia Basin. Shape a Team: Lead a mechanical trades team and help establish standards for operations and maintenance. Collaborative Culture: Work in a safe, accountable and professional environment. Professional Growth: Mentor crew members and apprentices while accessing training and career development opportunities. Compensation and Benefits: Receive competitive compensation and benefits, including generous vacation and time off provisions. Work-Life Balance: Enjoy the lifestyle, recreation and culture of the West Kootenay region.

How to Apply

Submit your cover letter and resume on our website: ourtrust.org/powerops by November 5.


Columbia Basin Trust values the rich and diverse cultures in the Columbia Basin and encourages applicants from all backgrounds and experiences to apply.

About Columbia Basin Trust

Our staff team is made up of highly motivated, innovative and passionate individuals who thrive in a dynamic environment and want to contribute to Columbia Basin communities.


The Trust is grateful to operate in the unceded, traditional territories of the Ktunaxa, Lheidli T'enneh, Secwepemc, Sinixt and Syilx Nations. This region is also home to five Metis Nation BC Chartered Communities.


We have offices in Castlegar, Nakusp, Cranbrook and Golden, communities that offer year-round outdoor recreation, a vibrant arts and culture scene, and much more.