Wind turbine technicians held about 4,400 jobs in 2014. The industries that employed the most wind turbine technicians were as follows:
Electric power generation, transmission and distribution
24%
Utility system construction
23
Commercial and industrial machinery and equipment (except automotive and electronic) repair and maintenance
23
Windtechs generally work outdoors, often at great heights and with a partner. For example, when repairing blades, windtechs rappel—or descend by sliding down a rope—from the nacelle to the section of the blade that needs servicing. To reach the mechanical equipment, workers must climb ladders—sometimes more than 260 feet tall—while wearing a fall protection harness and carrying tools. When maintaining mechanical systems, windtechs work in the confined space of the nacelle.
Many wind farms are located away from urban areas, which means that windtechs are often their own first responders in the event of an accident.
For major service or repairs, additional windtechs and other specialists, such as electricians, may be needed to complete the job quickly.
Work Schedules
Although the majority of windtechs work full time, they may also be on call to handle emergencies during evenings and weekends.
When a wind turbine is not functioning, technicians must find the problem and make the necessary repairs as quickly as possible.
Windtechs often travel to rural areas, where many wind farms are located.
