Wind Turbine Technician Careers & Salary Information
Wind turbine technicians install, inspect, and repair wind turbines. The trade is one of the fastest-growing in the country, and techs who are comfortable working at extreme heights earn competitive pay with solid career prospects.
National Salary Overview
Wind Turbine Technician Specialties
Wind Turbine Technicians can specialize in different areas, each with its own pay scale and career path.
Wind Turbine Blade Technician
Inspects and repairs composite blades on wind turbines, often suspended by rope at extreme heights. Specialized skill set with above-average wind tech pay.
Wind Turbine Electrical Technician
Focuses on the electrical and control systems inside wind turbines including generators, converters, and SCADA systems. Electrical background is a plus.
Wind Farm Supervisor
Manages a team of wind techs and oversees maintenance schedules for an entire wind farm. Leadership role with the highest pay in the wind energy field.
Explore Wind Turbine Technician Topics
Wind Turbine Technician Salary by State
Click any state to see detailed salary data, top-paying cities, and union vs. non-union breakdowns.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Wind Turbine Technician salaries in the United States vary based on experience, certifications, and whether you work union or non-union. Entry-level wind turbine technicians typically earn around 60-70% of the median wage, while experienced professionals and those with master-level credentials can earn 25-50% above the median.
Entry-level wind turbine technicians in the United States typically start at the lower end of the pay range, which reflects apprentice or helper-level positions. As you gain experience and complete your training program, your pay increases significantly within the first 2-3 years.
Yes. Union wind turbine technicians earn 15-30% more per hour on average than their non-union counterparts. When you factor in benefits like pensions, healthcare, and annuity contributions, the total compensation gap is even wider. However, union availability varies significantly by region.
The path to becoming a fully qualified wind turbine technician depends on the route you take. Apprenticeship programs typically last 3-5 years and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Trade school programs can be completed in 6-24 months, though you will still need field experience to reach journeyman level.
Wind Turbine Technician work offers solid pay, strong job security, and doesn't require a four-year degree. The national job outlook shows steady demand, and the ongoing skilled labor shortage means qualified wind turbine technicians have strong bargaining power. The work can be physically demanding, but many professionals find the trade rewarding and well-compensated.
Certifications can significantly boost a wind turbine technician's earning potential. Industry-recognized credentials, advanced specializations, and safety certifications all help you stand out to employers and command higher hourly rates. Master-level licenses typically result in the biggest pay increases.