With projected growth at a fast 44%, wind turbine service technicians, or wind techs, are projected to be the second fastest-growing job this decade. A wind tech’s main responsibilities involve the installation, maintenance and repair of wind turbines.
Aspiring wind techs can find opportunities around the nation with a steady salary that don’t require a four-year degree.
Projected growth rate: 44%
Median salary: $56,260
Education: Associates degree or technical school certificate, as well as 12 months of training
High employment locations: Texas, California, Oklahoma, Kansas and North Dakota
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Troubleshooting technician: Troubleshooting technicians often perform many of the same tasks as wind turbine technicians. But they may focus on investigating why a wind turbine isn’t functioning properly, fixing the problem or recommending a solution. Troubleshooting involves looking at electrical, hydraulic and mechanical components of wind turbines from hundreds of feet in the air.
LOTO I & II specialist: LOTO is short for “lockout/tagout,” which are specific practices and procedures used to safeguard employees in the wind energy industry from experiencing injuries due to unexpected energization or startup of machinery.
Wind farm support specialist (quality control): Wind farm support specialists, or quality control specialists, guarantee that all repairs and component swaps on wind turbines are being completed according to the standard of the customer. They climb wind turbine towers during or near the end of repairs to ensure that the fix meets standards set by the customer and service team. They inspect parts, keep a clean and organized workspace, document safety hazards, technician procedures, and work completion.