Wind turbine technicians perform the installation, maintenance, and repair of wind turbines. The daily routine of professionals in this field may involve tasks of all kinds such as climbing tall heights, lugging around heavy equipment, working within contained spaces, and servicing all components of wind turbines. Those interested in this career can expect to work outside for most of their day and will also be required to travel frequently. HVAC wind turbine technicians must possess a deep understanding of electricity, mechanics, and troubleshooting issues that may arise. It is also important for professionals to be prepared for the physically demanding portions of the job and be able to complete difficult tasks all throughout the day even during harsh conditions.
HVAC Wind Turbine Technician License and Certification
In addition to educational requirements, HVAC wind turbine technicians must also meet certain requirements for certification and licensing. Certifications may be obtained through associations such as HYTORC, National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and OSHA 10-hour Construction Training Program. In respect to licensure different states and cities have their own specific requirements so it is critical for those interested in working as HVAC wind turbine technicians to check with both the state level and local level requirements prior to taking on work. Technicians who are also contractors or plan to work at the contractor level must obtain licensure.
HVAC Wind Turbine Technician Training and Education
HVAC wind turbine technicians are required at minimum to possess either a high school diploma or GED prior to starting work, however it is most common for technicians to have some form of a college education or apprenticeship training. In most cases, HVAC wind turbine technicians will obtain a certificate of completion or an associate in applied science (AAS) degree while participating in an apprenticeship program and many choose to obtain a 4 year degree in engineering or sustainability.
HVAC Wind Turbine Technician Salary
The average annual salary for wind turbine technicians is over $54,300 per year with the top 10% earning over $80,000 annually. Technicians who specialize in electric power generation can expect to earn even more than other specialties within this field and are reported to earn on average $58,000 per year. States which pay the highest rates for salaries include West Virginia, Iowa, Colorado, South Dakota, and North Dakota with average salaries of over $60,000 per year.