Photo: Bryan and his family visit Hoover Dam.
Yuba Water Agency's senior hydro engineer, Bryan Perrin, is part of the team that is responsible for monitoring conditions and executing projects to ensure that the agency's dams continue to operate safely. Scroll to learn more about Bryan, his background and what he enjoys when he's off the clock.
What does your average day look like? Or what are some of your essential duties?
It's hard to describe an “average day” since there is so much variability. My daily duties depend on the time of year and phases of projects being managed. My days often include internal and external meetings, project planning and management, review of instrumentation data, report preparation, plans and specifications development and field inspections.
Do your duties differ throughout the year? And if so, how?
Over a given year, my job duties are relatively consistent but will vary by project. One item that we’re currently supporting is the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Part 12D Inspection, which is a comprehensive physical dam safety evaluation that occurs every five years.
Photo: Bryan's son visits him at one of his projects.
What is your background/formal education that led to where you are in your career today?
I was born and raised in Northern California and attended Chico State, which is where I earned my bachelor's degree in civil engineering.
How did you get involved in your current career path?
Ever since I was a child, I’ve had a great appreciation for large-scale infrastructure (dams, bridges, etc.) and construction. I always wanted to be an engineer. Thus far in my career, I’ve been able to support the planning, design and construction of several flood protection and dam modification projects throughout California.
What do you enjoy most about working for Yuba Water Agency?
I really enjoy working with a top-tier team that takes pride in maintaining our important infrastructure and assets.
Before working for Yuba Water, what was the most interesting job you had?
I’ve had some interesting engineering jobs over the years, but I think my time as a varsity men’s volleyball coach at Christian Brothers High School is worth a mention. I was fortunate to have coached from 2014 to 2017 and really enjoyed helping develop the kids from their freshman year through their senior year, when we won a San Joaquin Section title.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I enjoy spending time with my family, getting my boys into sports, working on projects around the house, golfing and camping.
What are three words you would use to describe Yuba Water?
Important, supportive and rewarding.