Dizzying but job-rich, the activity of wind turbine repair technician is anything but ordinary. In the United States, is experiencing crazy growth.
In France, the number of direct and indirect jobs associated with the wind sector reached 28,266 at the end of 2022, or 11% more than at the end of 2021, according to France Renouvelables and Capgemini Invent. Nearly 900 companies, the vast majority SMEs, support this sector in France with, in particular, employees specialized in operation, maintenance, engineering and construction. In the United States, the profession of wind turbine repair technician promises to be the one with the strongest growth (+45%), tied with the activity of nurse practitioner, over the period 2022-2032. A profession with a future, certainly, but not without certain requirements.
Wind turbine technician, busy days
It is estimated that in the USA, 5,000 new wind technician positions will be created by 2032. And if the job is technical, it is also physical. For example, it’s better not to be afraid of heights and it’s better to be a thrill-seeker. Taking on wind turbines sometimes 90 to 100 meters high is part of the technicians’ daily life.
With our colleagues from Wiredan experienced technician, with thirteen years of experience, explains that training in mechanics, electrical engineering or systems maintenance is a definite asset, but that in the United States, a passion for renewable energies is above all essential .
It must be said that the days of a wind technician are far from monotonous. Between assessing the condition of the turbines, resolving various problems such as changing the oil, generator and others, there is always something to do. “ If a wind farm has 100 turbines, for example, you will have 200 checks to carry out that year », adds the technician, who does not fail to point out that a single check can take an entire day.
A job that can pay well
In the United States, where the average hourly wage is around $35 for private sector employees, a wind turbine repair technician earns $25 to $50 per hour during his career, and more around 35 to 40 dollars after five years of experience. A union job can even help the employee climb up to $65 an hour.
There are numerous development opportunities in the field, with the possibility of specializing in different technical fields, or becoming a supervisor. The main challenge of the job undoubtedly remains working at height, sometimes in difficult climatic conditions. You should also expect to follow specific training in this regard.
So if you are looking for an activity that is both physical and intellectual, you care about the environment and you like to work without having too many people around you, this job may be for you. .
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Source : Wired
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