Whether you're seeking a stable career with rapid growth potential or looking to transition into the renewable energy sector, Jacksonville, TX, represents an emerging opportunity in the wind power industry. With Texas leading the nation in wind energy production at 25.8% of the national electricity output, and a projected 60% national increase in wind technician jobs by 2033, Jacksonville is poised to experience expansion in wind turbine technician roles and related skilled trades.
Use this guide to understand the licensing, training, job types, and career trajectory needed to launch a wind trade career in Jacksonville by 2025. You'll also learn where to find local apprenticeships, prepare for training, and connect with resources such as Gild to explore active wind trade job listings near you. For more job listings, check out Indeed's wind jobs in Texas.
Wind trade careers encompass a variety of technical roles involved in the installation, maintenance, and repair of wind turbines. These positions are located in both on-site field environments and technical support centers around wind farms. Key roles in this field include:
These roles typically require a combination of mechanical, electrical, and digital diagnostic skills — especially as turbine systems become more digitally integrated. For detailed career insights, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics on Wind Turbine Technicians.
Unlike electricians or plumbers, there is no universal, state-mandated license specifically for wind turbine technicians. However, companies hiring wind trade technicians typically require:
Many individuals begin their journey through apprenticeships or on-the-job training, which may last up to 1–2 years to become fully proficient as self-sufficient technicians in the field12. For more on why skilled trades matter, see Davron's insights on trade careers.
To be eligible for technical training or an apprenticeship:
Basic Eligibility:
Technical training programs provide the foundation you need before entering the field. These programs are typically between 12–24 months and are offered through community colleges, accredited National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)-partnered programs, and apprenticeship centers. For power generation jobs in Jacksonville, explore Indeed's listings.
A few specialized skills to focus on in training include:
In Texas, institutions and programs that offer wind-related certifications typically include partnerships with industry leaders like NextEra Energy, GE Renewable Energy, and Vestas to ensure curriculum relevance and job-readiness.
Applying for hands-on work is the next critical milestone. To land your first field role or apprenticeship:
Once employed, OJT is essential. Depending on the employer or program, on-the-job training lasts between 6 months to 2 years, often involving assessments and mentorship programs. By the end of this period, most trainees will have gained skills such as:
As your career develops, additional skills can set you apart and lead to promotion opportunities:
| Certification | Provider | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| LOTO Certification | OSHA | Ensures safe shutdown of equipment |
| Fall Protection | HCC or local trade schools | Essential for many on-site roles |
| PLC and Control Systems | Instrumentation, Systems, and Automation Society (ISA) | Prepares for supervisory operations |
| Electrical and AC/DC Systems | Independent training centers or IBEW | Can qualify for electrical troubleshooting |
| SCADA Basics | NREL / Industry Programs | Critical for diagnostics and monitoring |
Additionally, a 2-year associate’s degree in renewable energy systems or electrical engineering can potentially shorten the OJT training requirement when applying for technician jobs14. For career opportunities, check Duke Energy Careers.
Wind technician jobs are projected to grow 60% nationally from 2023 to 2033, making them one of the fastest-growing skilled technical roles in the U.S. 4. Within Texas, this growth trend is especially strong, with over 16,000 turbines generating over 39,000 Megawatts of wind power as of early 20245.
Given Texas's dominance in wind energy generation, and Jacksonville's proximity to major wind corridors like the Texas Panhandle, job prospects for wind turbine technicians, field service specialists, and composite manufacturers continue to strengthen. While Jacksonville itself may not host numerous wind farms, regional service needs, transport and logistics opportunities, and support roles related to the industry create local career pathways into wind trades61. For job projections, refer to BizJournals on BLS projections.
As of 2024, median wages for wind turbine technicians nationally average $62,580 annually3, with top earners near or above $90,000, especially in remote or specialized roles. Texas technicians fall within a competitive reimbursement range, often including:
In Jacksonville, rather than full-time wind farms, many opportunities revolve around regional support roles, including transport and assembly logistics, components manufacturing, or maintenance for traveling technicians. Entry-level roles start on the lower end, but tool-handling experience, safety certifications, or background in mechanical trades can increase earning potential quickly.
Like any skilled trade, working in wind energy has specific considerations:
| Challenge | Explanation | How to Prepare |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Demands | Climbing, confined spaces, variable weather | Maintain fitness and comfort with heights |
| Seasonal/Wind Variation | Maintenance peaks during high wind season (March–May) | Be available for variable schedules and overnights |
| On-the-job travel | Role may involve travel from base coordinator to wind farms | Obtain a license and prepare for semi-frequent travel |
| Work scheduling | May include emergency repairs or 24/7 on-call shifts | Be flexible with your time |
| Technical complexity | Requires use of diagnostic tools, schematics, and software systems | Get competent in using electronics and diagnostics before job entry |
Despite these challenges, the field growth, strong starting wages, and evolving nature of the sector offer rewarding long-term futures for wind trade professionals.
Jacksonville may not currently host large wind farms, but Texas's dominance in wind energy, coupled with continued investment in renewable energy infrastructure, will continue to expand the local job pool14. As companies like NextEra Energy and Duke Energy continue growing, the need for skilled technicians in Texas cities like Jacksonville — for roles in transportation, field operations support, component install services, and manufacturing teams — becomes even more pronounced3.
To take action now, visit Gild's job search page for Jacksonvillle, TX to explore wind-related apprenticeships, certification programs, and employment opportunities managed by local and national companies. With proven growth, high demand, and a median salary over $62,000, 2025 and beyond represents a prime time to start a career in wind trades in Texas. For additional resources, explore BLS on wind turbine technicians.
