Wind Turbine Service Technicians
In wind power service, the focus is on maintaining and ensuring the operation of the turbine. This involves repairing, maintaining, and servicing all relevant systems.
Wind turbine service technicians are responsible for troubleshooting and preventing issues in all areas, from generators to rotor blades and electrical systems. As a result, you work collaboratively with colleagues from other specialized fields.
Can’t find your dream job?
Send us your unsolicited application.
Tasks and work locations
As a wind turbine service technician, your work begins once the turbine is operational. Your primary goal is to ensure its continuous and safe operation, avoid problems, and resolve any disruptions. This profession revolves around long-term customer service, as well as the maintenance and preservation of the turbines. However, there may also be a need for involvement during the construction phase. Both activities can take place both onshore and offshore.
The tasks are quite similar in both areas. When working in construction, your focus is on assembling all mechanical and electrical components. Subsequently, the turbine needs to be commissioned. It is important to complete the work within a designated time frame, overcoming changing conditions to ensure a smooth start-up.
In a service role, you are responsible for the smooth operation of the turbine and ensuring its good condition. This involves inspecting the turbine within specified service intervals. The inspection includes checking the hydraulics, gears, wear parts, and the entire electrical system. For this reason, wind turbine service technicians usually work in teams of at least two people, with fitters, electricians, or mechatronics professionals complementing each other. If damages are detected or wear parts have reached their end, appropriate action is taken to address the issues. In case of disruptions that halt the turbine’s operation, you investigate the faults and work to restore functionality promptly. The assignments are meticulously planned and documented.
Career path
To become a wind turbine service technician, you can pursue further education. This builds upon technical professions such as electronics or mechanical engineering. However, career entry with sufficient professional experience is also possible. The training equips participants with the necessary knowledge to maintain and repair wind turbines.
Another aspect to consider is that the work takes place at heights of 100 meters and often involves working on ropes. Therefore, it is advantageous to have additional qualifications as an industrial climber according to FISAT or IRATA. These qualifications can be obtained through further training and a subsequent examination.
Requirements and prerequisites
To work in the wind energy sector, you should meet certain requirements. Vocational education and further training provide the necessary knowledge and skills to take care of the turbines. Additionally, you need a certain level of manual dexterity to solve problems quickly and reliably.
However, succeeding in this field requires more than just professional expertise. Other demands include reliability, a sense of responsibility, and, crucially, teamwork. In a team-based environment, each member must be able to rely on others to fulfil their tasks. This is particularly important as electricians and mechanics work together, each focusing on their area of expertise. Moreover, conditions can change continuously, with factors such as weather fluctuations and delays requiring flexibility to adapt.
Wind turbine service technicians work at heights of 100 meters. This necessitates a fundamental aptitude for heights and being free from vertigo. Physical fitness is also important to cope with the demands of the job. For those working offshore, suitability for working at sea and resistance to seasickness are essential.
Wind turbines are installed in areas with strong winds and less dense populations. Therefore, working in wind farms requires the willingness to travel for work and a valid driver’s license. If you choose to work in wind farms, you should be prepared for a work schedule that involves multi-day shifts. During these shifts, you will typically sleep in hotels near the work sites. This arrangement will impact your personal life, including friendships, family, and hobbies.
FAQs about Wind Turbine Service Technicians
What is the salary for wind turbine service technicians?
The salary for wind turbine service technicians cannot be universally specified. It depends on various factors, including personal experience, company size, and specific job roles.
Which education serves as a foundation for becoming a wind turbine service technician?
To become a wind turbine service technician, a background in electronic, mechanical, or other technical vocations is a good foundation. Further education can be pursued to gain specific knowledge of wind turbine systems.