4 Emerging Green Collar Jobs in Wind Energy

Photo: Allan Howard

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The following is a guest post by Ezra Drissman of GreenCareersGuide and Eco20/20

As wind technology advances so follows wind power jobs. Wind jobs are green careers because wind is a natural, renewable energy source. Wind and solar power jobs are uniquely connected with the new smart grid that is being constructed. Due to the huge amounts of electricity that can be harnessed, smart grids will provide the much-needed mechanisms to push wind electricity around the country.

While this is happening, wind energy jobs are opening up all across the United States. Here are some great jobs to think about:

1. Wind Turbine Machinist: A wind turbine machinist is just like a production machinist for any other industry, only in this case they specialize in the production of metal and plastic parts for wind turbines. A wind turbine machinist first reviews blueprints (written or electronic) for the specific part needing to be made. Next, they select the tools and equipment needed to shape the piece, and calculate where to cut or drill the material they are working with (steel, aluminum, titanium, plastic, etc.). They use their knowledge of metal properties and skill with machine tools to produce the part to extremely precise specifications.

2. Wind Power Turbine Installer: A wind power turbine installer must be well acquainted with the physics and science of wind turbines; this explains why a background in applied science is a must for those interested in this career. A wind power turbine installer has to know the different wind speeds and how a wind turbine works, because outfitting a home with a wind turbine relies on this technical knowledge.

3. Wind Analyst: A wind analyst is a meteorological professional who uses advanced scientific models and equipment to predict and measure wind flow. Wind analysts study the effect of wind flow at current turbine sites, and help plan and develop new wind farm sites. They study meteorological data and estimate wind output to support consulting services in wind energy development.

4. Wind Energy Technician: Wind energy technicians maintain turbines on wind farms. If you are thinking about this field, you will need to have a fairly strong background and understanding of mechanical and electrical principles. You will also need to be in fairly good shape. Taking care of really tall turbines involves climbing a lot of stairs.

Wind farms will only grow in number. If you are looking to get into this field start now. The opportunity for growth is immense.

Also by Ezra Drissman: 5 Hot Green Jobs Available Today

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