Wind energy jobs in Washington, MD, are gaining momentum as Maryland ramps up renewable energy investments. By 2025, careers in offshore wind promise $26–$43/hour wages, 13,000 new jobs statewide, and a pathway to secure roles like welders, engineers, and iron workers 12. With policies like the POWER Act driving $6 billion in economic benefits, now is the time to enter this high-growth field 32.
Understand Wind Trade Careers in Washington, MD
Wind energy professionals work in construction, maintenance, and operation of offshore wind farms. Key roles include:
- Welders and pipefitters for turbine assembly
- Ship captains for offshore logistics
- Engineers and technicians for system design and repairs
- Painters and iron workers for infrastructure support 4

These positions demand physical stamina, safety certifications, and adaptability to remote or offshore work environments.
Do You Need a License or Certification to Work in Wind Trades in Washington, MD?
While licensing varies by role, certifications in wind-specific skills are critical. For example:
- OSHA 30-Hour Maritime Certification (required for offshore safety)
- Welding certifications (AWS D1.1 for structural steel)
- Project management credentials for engineering roles
Maryland’s Offshore Wind Workforce Training Program offers certifications in maritime operations, electrical work, and logistics, preparing workers for direct roles with developers like U.S. Wind 12.
Wind Trade Apprenticeship Requirements and How to Find One
Key Apprenticeship Opportunities
Maryland’s workforce initiatives prioritize training for wind careers. For instance:
Role |
Training Duration |
Provider |
Wind Technician |
6–12 months |
Maryland Energy Administration |
Maritime Operator |
12 months (with sea time) |
Offshore Wind Maryland |
Welder/Pipefitter |
18–24 months |
Maryland Works for Wind |
To apply:
- Register with Gild for job alerts
- Enroll in Maryland’s training program
- Contact local unions for apprenticeship open positions
Steps to Becoming a Wind Trade Professional in Washington, MD
1. Meet Basic Requirements
- Age: 18+ years
- Education: High school diploma or GED
- Skills: Math, problem-solving, comfort with heights/physical labor
2. Start Training
Maryland’s free programs cover:
- Offshore safety protocols
- Turbine maintenance
- Maritime navigation
3. Apply for Apprenticeships
Submit applications through OffshoreWindMaryland.org and Gild’s platform.
4. Earn Certifications
Pursue AWS welding, REACT First Aid/AED, and FAA Medical Certificate for offshore travel.
Educational Programs for Wind Careers
Maryland offers tailored training:
- Maryland Energy Administration: Free wind-specific courses in Baltimore 1
- Apprenticeship.gov: 2,000+ active apprenticeships in renewable energy 5
Tip: Use Gild to search 50+ wind technician jobs in Washington, MD, and nearby regions.
Wind Careers in Washington, MD vs. Other States
Maryland ranks #1 on the East Coast for offshore wind job growth, with a 41.67% increase in production 6. While Texas leads nationally with 25,000 wind jobs, Washington, MD, benefits from state-backed projects like U.S. Wind’s 40 MW turbine hub 42.
Challenges to Anticipate
- Geographic logistics: Some roles require offshore travel from Ports Covington or Baltimore 2
- Technical training: Welders must master AWS 1700+ standards for turbine components
How Government Policy Fuels Wind Career Growth
Maryland’s 8.5 GW offshore wind goal by 2031 ensures long-term job security 3. The FAST-41 permitting process expedites projects, creating 10,000+ construction and maintenance roles 2.
Salary Expectations in 2025
- Welders: $45,000–$75,000/year (entry to experienced)
- Wind engineers: $72,000–$163,000/year 62
- Maintenance technicians: $55,000–$72,000/year 1
Benefits often include health insurance, pension plans, and career advancement funds.
Ready to Start?
Washington, MD, offers a unique gateway to the $1.9 trillion renewable energy economy. Dramatically reduce your entry barriers by:
- Filling out interest forms for Maryland’s training programs 2
- Searching wind jobs on Gild today!
With $6 billion in offshore investments and 13,000 jobs at stake, your wind trade career starts now 62.

Explore Training: Maryland Energy Administration | Apply for Jobs: Gild’s Wind Jobs Board | Stay Informed: Chesapeake Climate
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