Philadelphia Wind Careers 2025 Jobs, Growth and How to Get Started

Wind energy careers in Philadelphia, New Jersey are rapidly expanding as the region positions itself as a major hub for offshore wind development by 2025. With New Jersey committed to developing 7.5 gigawatts (GW) of offshore wind capacity by 2035¹, as outlined in the state's Climate Action Roadmap, the demand for skilled professionals in the wind trade industry is surging. Key roles include Wind Turbine Technician, Project Coordinator/Manager, Manufacturing and Assembly Workers, and Stevedoring and Port Operators². According to data, over 357 wind turbine technician positions are available in Philadelphia alone, reflecting the growing opportunities in both Pennsylvania and adjacent New Jersey³. For those considering this career path, understanding the qualifications, training requirements, and job outlook is essential to securing a position in this high-growth sector.

Understanding Wind Trade Careers

Wind trade professionals play a vital role in the development, maintenance, and operation of wind energy infrastructure, particularly offshore wind projects. Their responsibilities vary widely depending on the specific role:

• Wind Turbine Technicians install, maintain, and repair turbines, ensuring safe and efficient operation. For job listings, check out resources like ZipRecruiter for wind jobs.
• Project Coordinators and Managers oversee project execution, manage timelines, and coordinate between teams and stakeholders.
• Manufacturing and Assembly Workers produce and assemble turbine components, often at large-scale facilities like the New Jersey Wind Port, which is expected to create 1,500 direct and 20,000 indirect jobs by 2030⁴ and can be explored further at the NJ Wind Port site.
• Port Operations and Stevedoring Specialists manage the logistics of transporting and installing massive turbine components at waterfront facilities.

These roles represent a broad spectrum of technical, mechanical, and logistical skills that are in high demand as the clean energy transition accelerates. For more career insights, visit WeatherGuard Wind's job page.

Do You Need a License or Certification?

While New Jersey does not mandate a state-specific license for wind turbine technicians, employers universally require Global Wind Organisation (GWO) certifications, which are internationally recognized safety credentials⁵. These include:

1. First Aid (CPR, AED use, and emergency response)
2. Manual Handling (safe lifting and equipment transport)
3. Fire Awareness (fire prevention and extinguisher use)
4. Working at Heights (harness use, ladder safety, and rescue protocols)

These certifications are valid for two years and typically cost $1,935 at institutions like Atlantic Cape Community College⁵. Additionally, some employers prefer the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) certification, which validates broader technical knowledge in electrical systems and turbine maintenance⁶. Learn more about training opportunities on UTI's wind turbine program page.

Available Wind Training Programs

Although a high school diploma or GED suffices for entry-level roles, 85% of New Jersey employers prefer candidates with postsecondary credentials, such as:

• Certificate Programs (6–12 months focusing on hydraulics, electrical systems, and turbine maintenance)
• Associate Degrees (2-year programs combining GWO certifications with technical coursework)

For example, Rowan College of South Jersey (RCSJ) offers a Career & Technical Education (CTE) Certificate with embedded GWO Basic Technical Training and OSHA 10 certification⁷. These programs often partner with companies like EEW AOS for real-world welding and coating practice⁸. For those seeking advanced training and higher earning potential, associate degrees provide a more comprehensive foundation and can integrate apprenticeship experiences. Explore more options on the OceanTIC jobs tour site.

Step-by-Step Process to Enter the Field

Step 1: Complete Relevant Education

Enroll in a GWO-accredited program such as those offered by Atlantic Cape Community College or Rowan College of South Jersey. These programs integrate safety protocols, technical skills, and industry certifications into a structured curriculum⁷.

Step 2: Obtain GWO Certifications

Complete the 28-hour GWO Basic Safety Training (BST) program, which is a prerequisite for all fieldwork and ensures compliance with international safety standards. This training costs approximately $1,935 and must be renewed every two years⁵.

Step 3: Gain Practical Experience

Most employers require 12 months of apprenticeship or internship experience. Programs like those at RCSJ include cooperative education with companies like Ørsted and Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind, allowing students to gain on-site experience and mentorship⁷.

Step 4: Apply for Employment

Through partnerships with industry leaders and unions, graduates can apply directly through organizations like the New Jersey Wind Institute, which connects trained individuals with companies such as Invenergy and BHI Energy⁷⁹. Entry-level Wind Technician Trainee roles offer salaries between $44,513–$52,674 annually, with experienced offshore technicians earning $73,253 or more⁹. Check Indeed for wind energy jobs in New Jersey to get started.

Timeline for Certification and Employment

The path to becoming a wind turbine technician typically spans 1–3 years, depending on the educational path:

• Certificate Holders: 6–12 months of education + 12 months of on-the-job training
• Associate Degree Holders: 2 years of education + 6–12 months of apprenticeship

Accelerated programs, such as stackable credentials offered by RCSJ, can shorten the timeline by six months⁷, allowing students to earn both a certificate and progress toward an associate degree concurrently.

Financial Investment

The total cost for training and education ranges from $1,935 to $20,000:

• GWO Basic Safety Training: $1,935
• Certificate Programs: $5,000–$10,000 (e.g., RCSJ's CTE Certificate)
• Associate Degrees: $15,000–$20,000 (including tuition and lab fees)

Financial assistance is available through New Jersey’s Wind Institute Fellowships, which cover up to 50% of tuition for low-income students⁸, making training more accessible for a broader range of applicants.

Salary Expectations and Job Outlook

The average annual salary for wind technicians in New Jersey is $90,828, with top earners surpassing $80,000 annually⁹. Salaries vary by region and project type:

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 45% national growth for wind technician jobs from 2022–2032¹⁰. With New Jersey planning to create 3,000 offshore wind jobs by 2025, and the New Jersey Wind Port supporting thousands more in manufacturing and logistics, opportunities are abundant and expanding rapidly.

Key Job Opportunities in the Philadelphia Area

Philadelphia benefits from its proximity to New Jersey’s offshore wind developments, making it a strategic location for wind trade professionals. Key job roles include:

• Wind Turbine Technician: Install, maintain, and repair wind turbines; no prior experience is required for many entry-level roles, with on-the-job training provided¹¹.
• Field Technician (Offshore Wind): Often available in the region, requiring additional safety and offshore training.
• Manufacturing and Assembly Roles: The New Jersey Wind Port is expected to create 1,500 direct jobs with 20,000 indirect jobs in the supply chain by 2030⁴.
• Project Coordinators and Managers: Oversee wind energy projects and coordinate between teams.
• Port Operators and Stevedores: Handle the loading and transport of turbine components.

Overcoming Industry Challenges

Despite the robust growth and job availability, individuals pursuing wind trade careers may face certain barriers:

• Workforce Development Gaps: Many jobs go unfilled due to a lack of available training programs or mismatches in qualifications.
• Geographic and Commuting Issues: Some job sites are located far from urban centers, posing transportation challenges.
• Childcare and Support Services: Lack of accessible childcare can impact workforce participation.
• Socioeconomic Barriers: Individuals from underserved communities may lack resources, connections, or awareness of opportunities.
• Misinformation and Political Opposition: Misconceptions about offshore wind’s environmental impact can slow progress and reduce public support¹.

Solutions include expanding targeted training programs, providing childcare and transportation support, and implementing public awareness campaigns to counter misinformation and promote career opportunities.

Government Policies and Incentives

Government policies at all levels play a crucial role in supporting wind energy development:

Your Next Steps

Starting a career in the wind trade industry in Philadelphia and New Jersey is an exciting opportunity to join one of the fastest-growing fields in the country. Whether you're a recent high school graduate, looking for a career change, or seeking technical training, the offshore wind boom offers stable, well-paying jobs with significant growth potential.

If you're ready to take the next step, use Gild to explore wind turbine technician apprenticeships and job opportunities in the Philadelphia area. Gild connects you directly with thousands of clean energy job openings and training programs, streamlining your path to a career in wind energy.

Search Wind Turbine Technician Jobs in Philadelphia on Gild

As the industry continues to evolve and expand, staying connected with training programs, unions, and employers will ensure you're well-positioned to take advantage of the growing opportunities. With the New Jersey Wind Port and major offshore projects underway, 2025 presents an ideal time to join this dynamic, high-demand field.

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