Wind Turbine Service Engineers
In the field of wind power, service involves maintenance and operation assurance once the turbine is installed. This includes maintenance, repair, and servicing activities.
Service engineers for wind turbines are responsible for troubleshooting and preventing issues related to generators or rotor blades. The scope of their work covers both electronic and mechanical components, offering a wide range of tasks.
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Tasks and work locations
Service engineers are deployed to wind turbines after they are commissioned. They ensure that all systems operate smoothly and address any problems that may arise. Essentially, they work in the service department, providing support to customers and their installations. However, they may also be involved in the installation and commissioning phase. Typically, the deployment areas are categorized as onshore and offshore.
The tasks in both areas are generally similar. During installation, the focus is on assembling and making all relevant elements operational. The work is performed within a given timeframe, which should be completed on schedule. This includes the installation of cables, hardware and software components, followed by testing.
In the service phase, the objective is to monitor and ensure the ongoing operation. Service engineers conduct regular maintenance and inspection work, examining hydraulics, gearboxes, and wear parts such as bearings, shafts, and slip rings. If necessary, they replace or repair these components. In case of malfunctions, they conduct troubleshooting and handle the repairs and re-commissioning. Maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting activities are carefully planned and documented.
Career path
Becoming a service engineer for wind turbines can be achieved through further education based on another profession. Ideally, service technicians have mechanical or electrical training. Alternatively, with sufficient work experience in related industries, it is possible to make a career transition. The necessary knowledge and skills are acquired through training programs that enable individuals to maintain and repair wind turbines.
Since the work is typically performed at great heights, additional training as an industrial climber may be beneficial. This allows for more flexible deployment in wind farms when working “on the ropes,” although it is not mandatory. Usually, access to the turbine is via an elevator. To obtain the qualification, training according to FISAT or IRATA can be pursued, which includes a final examination.
With the successful completion of the qualification, participants obtain the necessary additional qualifications and can pursue relevant positions in the field.
Requirements and prerequisites
To work as a service engineer in the wind energy industry, you should meet several requirements. The necessary expertise is gained through further education and demonstrates the required technical skills to promptly and reliably address arising issues. However, these job-specific skills are just the beginning. In addition to fundamental attributes such as reliability and responsibility, the role of a service engineer in wind turbines demands further qualities.
The work is generally conducted in teams of one or two colleagues, requiring good teamwork as all team members rely on reliable collaboration. Moreover, the tasks
encountered can vary daily, with conditions unexpectedly changing. Adverse weather, unforeseen delays, and similar factors necessitate a flexible approach to adapt quickly.
Service engineers in wind turbines work at heights of approximately 100 meters. Therefore, they must possess basic height tolerance and be free from vertigo. Additionally, the work requires physical fitness. If you aspire to work offshore, you should be suited for work at sea and have no issues with seasickness.
Furthermore, it is important to have a willingness to travel for work since wind turbines are usually not located near residential areas. The work takes place at least nationwide, often across Europe. It is organized in multi-day “deployments,” and accommodation is provided in hotels near the sites. As a service engineer for wind turbines, you should be prepared for such work rhythms.
FAQs about Service Engineers in Wind Turbines
What is the salary for service engineers in wind turbines?
Providing a specific salary figure is not possible due to various factors. The salary of a service engineer in the wind energy industry depends on individual factors such as work experience, company size, and job scope. Additionally, various allowances are provided due to the unique working conditions.
Is formal education required to become a service engineer in wind turbines?
If you want to become a service engineer for wind turbines, you first need solid vocational training in the mechanical or electrical field. It is then possible to take further training that builds on the technical training, or to join a wind turbine service team directly. You then learn practically “on the job”. Alternatively, a lateral entry is possible if you have already worked in wind energy for a longer period of time and have the corresponding skills.