Wind Turbine Technician

Wind turbine technicians harness renewable energy by installing, repairing, and maintaining wind turbines. Typically working outdoors and at great heights, wind turbine technicians spend their work day by safely scaling wind towers. If you are mechanically inclined, passionate about renewable energy, and would enjoy the exciting lifestyle working as a wind turbine technician would bring, read further to learn more about the career.

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What Do Wind Turbine Technicians Do? 

Responsibilities of wind turbine technicians include the installation and maintenance of wind turbines. Other tasks you may find yourself performing are as follows:

• Inspect and repair wind turbines 
• Troubleshoot electrical and mechanical components and hydraulic systems
• Replace mechanisms as needed
• Collect wind turbine data for any research purposes
• Service different control systems including some underground
• Perform safety inspections
• Monitor equipment either on or offsite 

Wind turbine technicians work across various industries. They may specialize in electric power generation, repair and maintenance, utility system construction, scientific research and technical services, and more. Depending on any emergencies or outages, wind turbine technicians may need to work evening hours or weekends.

How to Become a Wind Turbine Technician 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Most wind turbine technicians will either attend a technical school to earn a certificate, or a community college to receive an associate degree. Whether you enroll in an associate degree or certificate program, your coursework will likely also involve hands-on experience working with wind turbines and related electrical systems.

Other classes focusing on wind turbine technology can include the following and more:

• Rescue, safety, and CPR training
• Electrical and hydraulic maintenance
• Braking, mechanical, and electric systems 
• Blade inspection and maintenance
• Computers, and programmable logic control systems 

In addition to the above mentioned coursework, wind technicians typically receive over one year of on-the-job training when first entering the workforce.

Salary and Job Outlook for Wind Turbine Technicians

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that in the coming years, wind turbine technicians can anticipate explosive job growth. By 2032, it is estimated that demand for wind turbine technicians will increase 45 percent, which is significantly faster than the national average. Looking toward a future in renewable energy can be credited for this industry growth.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics also reports that in 2023, the average pay for wind turbine technicians was $65,380, with the top 10 percent earning closer to $90,300. The future of wind turbine technology is expected to be bright! If you are interested in entering the field, now is a great time to do so.

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