Wind energy jobs
Are you passionate about wind energy? You can explore our wind energy job vacancies, gain insights into wind energy career paths, and discover the required qualifications and salary ranges in the wind energy industry. Still have questions? Check out our FAQs to get your answers.
All wind energy jobs
A career in wind energy
The main responsibility of wind energy jobs is to use the power of the wind to generate electricity.
Wind turbine technicians are hands-on experts responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of wind turbines, ensuring their optimal performance. Wind energy engineers contribute to the design and development of wind energy systems, applying their technical expertise to enhance efficiency and sustainability.
Project managers oversee the planning and execution of wind energy projects, from site selection to operation. The industry also welcomes environmental scientists who assess the ecological impact of wind projects.
The wind energy sector
Key Components of the wind energy sector
Key Benefits of wind energy
Wind is a global natural resource and available everywhere. The data on its frequency and strength can enhance our ability to make informed siting decisions. Because we know where the wind blows strongest, it’s possible to install wind turbines on the basis of our knowledge of local conditions. The winder area can produce more energy. This effectively reduces initial investment costs.
Compared to photovoltaic power plants, wind turbines take up less space. Due to the vertical extension of the blades and the small size base, the land where wind turbines can also be used for other purposes like farming.
Additionally, more jobs are created in the wind energy industry. According to the report from the Global Wind Organization (GWO) and the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC), the global onshore and offshore wind capacity is expected to grow by two-thirds from 2021 to 2026. This growth will cause a 33% rise in the demand for technicians who have taken wind industry training to construct and upkeep the expanding wind energy infrastructure.
Industry growth
The wind energy industry is experiencing significant global growth, driven by advances in onshore and offshore wind technologies.
Over the past five years, onshore wind has evolved to maximize electricity production per megawatt of capacity by using larger turbines with increased hub heights and rotor diameters. Offshore wind is poised for rapid expansion, taking advantage of stronger winds at sea. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the record of wind electricity generation has increased by 265 TWh in 2022, reaching over 2,100 TWh, making it the second-largest contributor to renewable power.
Achieving net zero will require global efforts to increase annual capacity additions, overcome permitting challenges, reduce costs, and streamline project development timelines. The industry’s global reach is expanding: Onshore wind is established in 115 countries and offshore wind is gaining traction in new markets such as Japan and the US.
Job seekers can expect increasing opportunities in this dynamic and growing sector, including roles in manufacturing, installation, project management and research and development.
Types of jobs in wind energy sector
The significant global growth creates diverse career opportunities. To give you an idea of the wide range of careers available, the following list shows some of the most common positions in wind energy.
Wind manufacturing jobs
The main responsibility of wind manufacturing jobs is to manufacture turbines and turbine components and make them more powerful, efficient, and reliable.
Wind turbine assemblers are responsible for the meticulous assembly of turbine components, including the tower, nacelle, and blades. They ensure that each part meets strict quality standards. Machinists and CNC operators utilize precision machinery to craft turbine components with accuracy. Quality control inspectors examine finished parts to guarantee compliance with industry standards and troubleshoot any discrepancies.
Project development jobs
In the wind energy sector, project developers identify suitable sites, negotiate land agreements, and secure necessary permits. They collaborate with engineers to assess the feasibility of proposed projects, considering factors like wind resources, environmental impact, and community engagement. Environmental specialists ensure compliance with regulations, by conducting impact assessments. Project managers coordinate multidisciplinary teams, overseeing the construction phase and ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget.
Offshore farm jobs
In the wind energy sector, offshore farm jobs refer specifically to roles within offshore wind farms. These jobs include offshore wind technicians, who are responsible for installing, repairing, and maintaining wind turbines in challenging marine environments. Engineers specializing in offshore wind design and optimize structures that can withstand harsh offshore conditions. In addition, marine and logistics experts coordinate the transport and installation of components, contributing to the overall success of offshore wind farms. Working in offshore energy means working on complex, bespoke projects. These projects are challenging not only because of the exceptional weight and size of the loads but also because of the precision required.
Other types of jobs in the wind energy sector
In addition to these three types of jobs, wind energy jobs include research and development (R&D) professionals who focus on technological innovation; education and training professionals who focus on ensuring the workforce is equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for the dynamic and innovative field of wind energy. Data analysts interpret performance data, sales, and marketing professionals drive market awareness. In addition, the sector relies on specialists in logistics, supply chain management, wind energy consultants, and a variety of sales, marketing, and legal roles, all of which contribute to the growth, efficiency, and sustainability of the sector.
Skills and qualifications in the wind energy sector
To get a wind energy job, you’ll typically need:
- A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as engineering (electrical, mechanical, or civil), physics, environmental science, or a related field. And also for industrial production managers, they have bachelor’s degrees in industrial technology, business administration or related field’s degree.
- In the wind energy sector, most manufacturing workers are trained on the job. And many skilled workers, such as computerized machine tool operators, acquire their skills through post-secondary technical education or apprenticeships.
- Knowledge of wind resource assessment, turbine design or operation, and project management.
- Relevant working experiences offshore and certifications in wind energy technologies. E.g. electrician qualifications.
Wind energy job salary ranges
The salary for positions in the wind energy sector may differ based on various factors, including the role responsibility, professional experience, educational background, and the geographical area. Below is a broad summary of salary for wind energy jobs across different global regions:
North America:$37,000-200,000 per year, depending on the level of experience and specific job responsibilities
Europe: €40,000-€180,000 per year, depending on the level of experience and specific job responsibilities.
Middle East: AED 50,000-200,000 per year ($13,635-$54,503), depending on experience and job responsibilities.
Asia-Pacific: range from $44,000-$150,000 per year, depending on the specific countries, job, and level of experience.
Frequently asked questions about wind energy jobs
Getting started in the wind energy sector involves a combination of education, gaining relevant skills, and practical experience:
A bachelor’s degree in engineering (electrical, mechanical, or civil), physics, environmental science, or a related field.
Seek internships or apprenticeship programs that combine on-the-job training with related classroom instruction such as electrical theory, blueprint reading, electrical code requirements, and soldering.
Technical skills in wind resource assessment, turbine design or operation, and project management
The wind energy sector offers a diverse range of opportunities.
In entry-level positions such as Wind Technicians or Installers, professionals gain hands-on experience in the physical installation and maintenance of wind turbines.
Advanced specialists such as Turbine Technologists, involve delving into specific aspects of turbine technology or control systems.
Offshore Wind Farm Technicians tackle the unique challenges of offshore installations, while researchers contribute to technological advancements.
For those interested in project development, there are roles available in site selection, permitting, and project coordination.
Wind energy is a global natural resource and easy to access therefore wind energy jobs are distributed globally. Here are some regions that stand out as hosting a significant number of wind energy jobs:
- North America: the United States, Canada
- Asia: China, Japan, India
- Australia
- Europe: UK, Germany, Spain
