Wind turbines provide clean energy and reduce carbon emissions. Because of this, they are becoming more common forms of renewable energy worldwide.
Wind turbine technicians install and monitor their operation to get them up and running.
A wind turbine service technician has to be able to perform various tasks such as installing blades, inspecting equipment, troubleshooting problems, and repairing damaged parts. Therefore, they usually start their shifts in the morning and finish during the afternoon to complete their tasks.
This article will provide insight into a wind tech role. Then we'll dive into a wind turbine service technician's work schedule and why turbine technician roles are predicted to grow 4% over the next decade faster than other occupations. Also, find out what various functions they have to perform to ensure these wind turbine towers are up to standard.
Have you been wondering what wind turbines do? It's best to break it down into the different areas of a wind technician's role.
There are several paths a wind tech can go into once they're qualified to work in the field.
Wind turbines are high towers that require staff to operate cranes to lift heavy objects or materials to get to the top of these turbines.
A crane operator controls its movements and must know how to operate it safely and efficiently.
These workers should be qualified to use construction machinery to help build the equipment in the wind farms.
These types of machinery can range from trucks, excavators, bulldozers, and backhoes.
The workers must handle these vehicles safely and receive the proper training before using them.
Electricians are important to wind turbine service technician roles as they must design, construct, maintain, and test electrical components.
In addition, they must be familiar with electricity and safety regulations.
These technologists can help create the latest technology for wind farms.
Additionally, they can develop ideas and designs to improve the turbines' proficiency. So having excellent knowledge of physics, math, and computer programming is a must.
They must also be aware of circuits and power generation.
This job requires someone to install lines and lay pipes, ducts, and conduits for the turbine.
The line installer needs to be able to read and follow instructions. They must also be capable of climbing very high ladders, handling tools, and fixing repairs.
These technicians should understand the ins and outs of operating power plants that generate electricity.
Moreover, they must ensure that the wind plant runs smoothly and send tasks to other technicians and engineers when needed.
Wind turbine service technicians' roles include installing, repairing, and servicing turbines. They also monitor their performance and ensure they operate safely.
The job requires heightened technical skills and knowledge of electrical systems. Technicians typically spend long hours working outdoors, often in extreme weather conditions.
Technicians usually start as apprentices or trainees before becoming fully qualified engineers. This means they must complete at least two years of job training after technical school, where they begin to complete tasks and responsibilities.
Responsibilities include the following:
A wind turbine technician works a standard 40-hour week as a minimum. However, most wind turbines are installed during off-peak hours so that technicians may work on weekends.
There is potential for a nice work-life balance. But a lot of traveling is involved as most wind turbine farms are found nationally.
Most wind turbine technicians start their day by inspecting the blades. After that, they will check the wind turbine generators. Then they will make sure that all the wires are connected correctly.
A wind turbine technician training program is an important part of getting into the wind industry. And as this industry is set to grow by 44% over the next decade, the appropriate school diploma and education are key to your role in it.
Wind turbine service technician schools are available to those in the US, where you'll be able to earn an associate degree. But, again, this can be from a well-respected college, community college, or a school that offers degree programs.
After this degree, you may need to take an industry-related certification exam. The Global Wind Organization (GWO) and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) offer exams that could help.
Having good work-related qualities can make these indoor and outdoor environments more manageable.
These qualities include:
A good wind turbine technician must have excellent communication skills. They should be able to speak efficiently with other team members and clients.
A good wind turbine technician needs to pay close attention to details. It also means being aware of the security precautions when working near moving machinery.
A good wind technology technician has mechanical skills, including fixing and assembling parts. They may also need to know how to weld and cut metal.
This skill set includes using hand tools and equipment safely and efficiently. It also involves using basic math skills to calculate angles and distances.
Good wind turbine technicians must have stamina and strength. They must be able to lift heavy equipment and climb steep stairs.
Furthermore, they'll need to work long hours on their feet, mostly outdoors in extreme heat and cold conditions.
A good wind turbine tech has troubleshooting skills that allow them to diagnose and repair problems, including electrical, hydraulic, and motor problems and wind speed.
The US wind turbine technician's salary has a median annual wage of approximately $56,260. This number comes to about $27.05 per hour, as was recorded in 2021 by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
In this role, wind tech roles vary. About 32% work in electric power generation, 25% work in repair and maintenance, 21% in utility system construction, 7% are self-employed, and 3% are professional, scientific, and technical.
The turbine industry is quickly growing worldwide. As demand increases, there are more job opportunities. However, it takes hard work and dedication to succeed in this field.
In addition, employment is set to grow by 44% from 2021 to 2031, showing room for more wind techs and career expansion.
Here we answer some popular wind tech questions.
Most wind turbine technicians work 40 hours per week as a minimum. They typically work Monday through Friday, but some companies offer flexible schedules during weekends.
A wind turbine technician travels around the country or world inspecting wind turbines and fixing any issues. They climb towers to inspect and repair wind turbines and accumulate information about their performance.
Working together in a team environment implies you can spread the workload between each other. One person doesn't need to complete every task, but each tech can get on with their own role as part of getting things done.
Always wear safety clothing, like helmets or hard hats, harnesses, gloves, and appropriate work boots. Also, if the weather conditions look difficult to work in, it's best to avoid putting yourself in harm's way.
Wind technicians have to deal with high winds and harsh weather conditions. They may be required to travel to remote locations and work on tall structures, which could be slippery and dangerous to climb.
Wind turbines are becoming increasingly popular worldwide. They provide clean energy without causing pollution and generate renewable electricity from the movement of air.
Therefore, they require maintenance workers to keep them running smoothly.
A wind technician performs routine inspections of the wind turbines to ensure everything is functioning properly. If this career path interests you, discover what route you can take to start your wind technician journey through our website.