What Does a Wind Turbine Technician Do?
A Wind Turbine Technician, also known as a Wind Tech, works on the exciting frontier of renewable energy technology. They are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing wind turbines that generate clean, green power.
As a Wind Turbine Technician, you'll often be working high above the ground, performing routine maintenance tasks, diagnosing mechanical problems, and making necessary repairs. This role is hands-on and requires solid mechanical skills. You'll be climbing tall towers, so good physical fitness and a head for heights is important.
Your typical work environment will likely vary depending on the job. Some technicians work in manufacturing plants, others on farms, or even out at sea on offshore wind farms. You can expect to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
In this rapidly expanding industry, a career as a Wind Turbine Technician offers both exciting challenges and rewarding benefits. It's a role that’s both physically and intellectually challenging, offering you the chance to work outdoors, solve problems, and make a real difference to our environment.
Skills Required
Technical Skills
- Understanding of Electrical Systems
- Wind Turbine Maintenance
- Safety Procedures
- Repair and Installation of Wind Turbines
- Troubleshooting Mechanical Issues
- Working Knowledge of Hydraulic Systems
- Reading Schematics and Blueprints
Soft Skills
- Problem Solving
- Communication
- Physical Stamina and Ability to Work at Heights
- Attention to Detail
- Teamwork
Technical Skills
- Understanding of Electrical Systems
- Wind Turbine Maintenance
- Safety Procedures
- Repair and Installation of Wind Turbines
- Troubleshooting Mechanical Issues
- Working Knowledge of Hydraulic Systems
- Reading Schematics and Blueprints
Soft Skills
- Problem Solving
- Communication
- Physical Stamina and Ability to Work at Heights
- Attention to Detail
- Teamwork
Education and Training Requirements
Required Education
- High School Diploma: Complete high school, focusing on courses such as math, physics and any relevant technical and mechanical courses.
- Optional Post-Secondary Education: Though not always required, some employers prefer candidates with a post-secondary education such as an associate's degree in wind energy technology or electrical systems technology.
- OSHA Safety Training: Complete Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) safety training, including 10-hour or 30-hour certification courses.
- First Aid and CPR Certification: Obtain First Aid and CPR certification. Wind turbine technicians often work in remote settings, making knowledge of first aid and CPR crucial.
- Wind Turbine Technician Training Program: Attend a Technical Education Program or Wind Turbine Technician Training Program at an accredited organization or vocational school.
- Climbing and Rescuing Training: Receive physical training and certification for climbing wind turbines and conducting rescues in emergency situations.
- Apprenticeship: Complete a formal apprenticeship that combines classroom training with on-the-job experience. This usually lasts for 12 to 24 months.
- CompTIA A+ Certification: Earn the CompTIA A+ certification. This certification validates skills in troubleshooting, repairing and installing digital equipment.
- BWEA Certificate: Earn the British Wind Energy Association (BWEA) certificate or equivalent. This certification confirms a technician’s proficiency with wind turbine maintenance and installation.
- High School Diploma: Complete high school, focusing on courses such as math, physics and any relevant technical and mechanical courses.
- Optional Post-Secondary Education: Though not always required, some employers prefer candidates with a post-secondary education such as an associate's degree in wind energy technology or electrical systems technology.
- OSHA Safety Training: Complete Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) safety training, including 10-hour or 30-hour certification courses.
- First Aid and CPR Certification: Obtain First Aid and CPR certification. Wind turbine technicians often work in remote settings, making knowledge of first aid and CPR crucial.
- Wind Turbine Technician Training Program: Attend a Technical Education Program or Wind Turbine Technician Training Program at an accredited organization or vocational school.
- Climbing and Rescuing Training: Receive physical training and certification for climbing wind turbines and conducting rescues in emergency situations.
- Apprenticeship: Complete a formal apprenticeship that combines classroom training with on-the-job experience. This usually lasts for 12 to 24 months.
- CompTIA A+ Certification: Earn the CompTIA A+ certification. This certification validates skills in troubleshooting, repairing and installing digital equipment.
- BWEA Certificate: Earn the British Wind Energy Association (BWEA) certificate or equivalent. This certification confirms a technician’s proficiency with wind turbine maintenance and installation.
Licensing and Certification
State Requirements
Required in some states, often includes safety certification