Oklahoma City Wind Turbine Technician Jobs Salaries & Demand

Oklahoma City is emerging as a hub for wind trade careers, with wind turbine technician jobs projected to grow by 60% through 2033 ¹. The average hourly pay for wind turbine jobs in Oklahoma is $24.07, with highs reaching $35.07 ². To enter this field, you typically need a high school diploma plus specialized training through certificate or associate degree programs ³. Training programs like the Advanced Wind Energy Technician at High Plains Technology Center include modules on Wind Energy Safety and AC/DC Electricity ⁴. With Oklahoma ranking as the third-largest producer of wind energy in the U.S. ⁵, opportunities in this renewable energy sector are expanding rapidly. Check out more details on wind energy growth at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL).

Understanding the Wind Turbine Technician Role

Wind turbine technicians play a critical role in maintaining and repairing wind turbines at wind farms. Their responsibilities include:

• Performing routine maintenance and inspections
• Troubleshooting electrical and mechanical issues
• Replacing worn or damaged components
• Climbing turbines to access equipment
• Following strict safety protocols when working at heights

This physically demanding job requires:

• Ability to climb towers up to 300 feet
• Comfort working in confined spaces
• Strength to lift heavy equipment
• Keen attention to detail for complex systems

Technicians often work outdoors in varying weather conditions and must be able to respond to emergency repairs as needed. For more on job responsibilities, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Educational Requirements for Wind Trade Careers

To begin a career in the wind industry, you'll need specific education and training:

Basic Education

• High school diploma or GED is the minimum requirement
• Recommended coursework: physics, mathematics, and mechanical drawing

Training Programs

Several Oklahoma institutions offer specialized training:

These programs provide hands-on experience with turbine components and systems, preparing students for real-world scenarios. Learn more about the Advanced Wind Technician program at the HPTC website. For additional training options in Oklahoma, explore OKC Fox News.

Career Path and Growth Prospects

The wind energy sector in Oklahoma City offers promising career advancement opportunities:

• Entry-Level Technician: Typically requires completion of a training program and basic certifications
• Journey-Level Technician: Gained experience working on various turbine models
• Senior Technician/Lead: Supervisory roles requiring 5+ years of experience
• Specialized Roles: Focus on specific turbine brands or systems

Salaries increase with experience:

• Average hourly pay: $24.07 ²
• Top earners: Up to $35.07 ²
• Run Energy technicians: $27.90 per hour ⁶

With Oklahoma's wind industry expanding rapidly, technicians can expect strong job security and advancement opportunities. For salary insights, check ZipRecruiter.

Required Certifications and Licenses

Beyond formal education, several certifications are crucial for wind turbine technicians:

Safety Certifications

• OSHA 10 HR: Basic safety training required by most employers
• NFPA 70E: Electrical safety certification
• GWO Basic Safety Training: Includes working at heights, sea survival, and first aid

Transportation Requirements

• Commercial Driver's License (CDL): Needed for transporting large turbine components

Technical Certifications

• Electrical License: Required for some advanced roles
• Hydraulic/Pneumatic Systems Certification: Demonstrates specialized knowledge

These certifications ensure technicians can work safely and effectively in the field. More information on certifications can be found via Talent.com.

Steps to Becoming a Wind Turbine Technician in Oklahoma City

Follow this step-by-step process to launch your wind trade career:

1. Meet Basic Education Requirements

• Obtain a high school diploma or GED
• Consider taking courses in electricity, mechanics, and computer science

2. Complete a Wind Technician Training Program

• Enroll at High Plains Technology Center, Canadian Valley Technology Center, or Northern Oklahoma College
• Complete hands-on training with turbine simulators and real equipment

3. Obtain Essential Certifications

• Complete OSHA 10 HR and NFPA 70E safety training
• Consider additional GWO certifications for better job prospects

4. Acquire Necessary Licenses

• Obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) if transporting equipment
• Pursue an Electrical License for advanced roles

5. Apply for Entry-Level Positions

• Search for openings on job platforms like Gild
• Network with industry professionals at local trade events

6. Continue Professional Development

• Stay current with new turbine technologies
• Pursue advanced certifications for career advancement

The entire process typically takes 6 months to 2 years, depending on the training path chosen.

Your Next Steps

Starting a career as a wind turbine technician in Oklahoma City offers exciting opportunities in a rapidly growing industry. With Oklahoma ranking as the third-largest producer of wind energy in the U.S. ⁵ and wind turbine service technician jobs projected to grow by 60% through 2033 ¹, now is an excellent time to enter this field. Whether you're just finishing high school or considering a career change, following these steps will set you on the path to success in this critical renewable energy sector. As you gain experience and build your credentials, the opportunities in wind energy will only continue to grow.

To begin your journey, explore wind technician apprenticeship opportunities and training programs on Gild today. Additionally, stay informed with the latest energy news from OK Energy Today.

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