Wind turbine technicians in high demand as renewable jobs take off
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Wind turbine repair is projected to be one of the fastest growing jobs in the US in the coming decade. The job entails working at heights of up to 300 feet to maintain turbines.
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The role requires a mechanical or electrical background. Many technicians train through a vocational program focused on wind energy before entering the field.
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The job can be challenging with long hours, on-call assignments, overtime, and difficult weather conditions. But companies provide gear and the role is evolving to make things easier.
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Technicians follow a routine maintenance schedule across wind farms' many turbines that involves greasing, torquing, oil changes, etc. Repairs involve heavy lifting.
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Pay ranges from $25-$50/hour with overtime. With 5+ years experience it's $35-$40/hour or up to $65 in a union. Veterans have 10-13 years experience, so there is ample opportunity.