How to Get Wind Trade Jobs in Washington NC by 2025.

If you're looking to jumpstart a career in the wind trade industry in Washington, NC, there are several pathways available that offer promising opportunities and competitive compensation. The primary focus in 2025 is on wind turbine technicians, with roles centered around maintenance and servicing of wind facilities like the Edenton Wind Farm in North Carolina ¹. For more on wind industry projections, check out the WindEurope statistics report for global insights that align with U.S. trends. Typically, these positions in the region require Monday to Friday hours from 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM with a competitive starting wage of approximately $19.47 per hour ¹.

The accessibility of these roles is notable, as no prior experience is needed for entry-level wind turbine technician positions, making Washington, NC, an accessible starting point for new entrants into the renewable energy sector ¹. Apprenticeship programs in Washington, NC, offer around $1,200 weekly during training, with experienced professionals earning higher wages, indicating robust compensation potential in this trade locally ². For career paths in renewables, explore the Clean Power resources for additional support.

There are even provisions for necessary gear, equipment, and uniforms, along with a fully vested 401(k) plan that includes company matching. Paid time off, dental, vision, medical and life insurance are also typically included as part of the benefits package, making these career options particularly attractive ¹. Also worth noting is the broader demand trend across North Carolina, which aligns with national projections indicating 13-38% growth in wind-related jobs from 2020 to 2025 ³.

While specific data for Washington, NC specifically isn't detailed, regional employment trends can be reviewed via the BLS occupation page for wind technicians. As the state advances its offshore wind targets set for 2030 (2.8 GW) and 2040 (8 GW), more localized opportunities could materialize around Washington, NC ⁴.

Understand the Role of a Wind Turbine Technician

Before diving into the steps, it's essential to understand what being a wind turbine technician entails. These professionals perform hands-on work maintaining and repairing wind turbines, often at great heights. Visit AgCareers for detailed profiles to learn more about daily responsibilities. The job is physically demanding, requiring technicians to regularly ascend towers that can reach 200-300 feet or more, carrying tools and equipment throughout their shifts ³.

Key responsibilities include:

• Performing routine inspections and preventative maintenance
• Diagnosing and repairing mechanical or electrical issues
• Collecting performance data
• Maintaining safety protocols at all times

Working conditions can be challenging, with exposure to:

• High temperatures inside turbines
• Wind and rain at heights
• Cramped spaces within turbine nacelles

For those in Washington, NC, the nearest known facility requiring these technicians is currently the Edenton Wind Farm ¹. Compared with similar professions requiring mechanical aptitude, such as HVAC technicians, wind turbine technician offers more outdoor exposure and direct involvement in sustainable energy operations ⁵.

Do You Need Certification or Training to Work in Wind Energy in Washington, NC?

Yes, certification is required to work as a wind turbine technician in Washington, NC. Renewables employers typically require an industry-recognized credential, but the exact training needed depends on your experience level. For salary and certification details, refer to CareerExplorer's data on wind technicians.

For entry-level technicians:

• A postsecondary nondegree award or certificate in wind energy technology is the minimum requirement
• High school coursework in physics, environmental science, computer science can help you qualify for apprenticeship programs ⁵

For more experienced professionals:

• An associate’s degree in applied sciences, such as wind energy technology, often satisfies requirements ⁵
• Renewable energy certifications enhance job prospects ⁶

To help understand the different requirements for plumbers versus wind technicians, here’s a quick comparison table:

While the wind trade in Washington, NC doesn't face the same regulatory complexity as plumbing in NYC, the end goal of gaining full technical proficiency through structured training is shared between these trades.

How to Find a Wind Trade Apprenticeship in Washington, NC

To qualify for a wind turbine technician role in Washington, NC, an apprenticeship program is crucial. Here are your recommended steps to get started:

1. Complete a pre-apprenticeship program: These 3-6 month programs that include safety training, basic mechanical instruction, and climate literacy provide a vital foundation. Options abound in regional technical schools and community colleges with energy programs.

2. Apply to qualified apprenticeships: Programs in Washington, NC offer a weekly stipend averaging $1,200 during training, with higher wages for experienced technicians ⁴. Sky Climber Renewables is among the companies known to provide fully funded technical training alongside apprenticeship opportunities ³.

3. Get required safety certifications: While covered in some degree programs, independent certifications may be necessary. The most commonly accepted for wind work include:

• CPR/First Aid
• Fall Protection
• Hazard Communication Standard (HazCom 2012)
• OSHA 30
• Confined Space Rescue

To find an apprenticeship, you have multiple options:

• Use Gild to search apprenticeship openings: As a centralized job board for trade opportunities, Gild aggregates thousands of listings in the renewable energy sector. You can search open wind trade apprenticeships in Washington, NC, and surrounding areas directly from the site.
• Indeed offers a filtered job search experience particularly helpful for experienced professionals.
• Explore additional resources like BLS for apprenticeship guides to streamline your application process.

Steps to Becoming a Wind Turbine Technician in Washington, NC

1. Meet the Basic Requirements

Before applying to apprenticeships, ensure you:

• Are at least 18 years old
• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Speak, read, and understand English
• Can pass a physical and drug screening
• Are comfortable working at extreme heights

Physical stamina is particularly important - wind turbine technicians must be able to climb narrow ladders for extended periods while carrying tools ⁵.

2. Enroll in a Wind Energy Training Program

While not mandatory, completing a training program at an accredited institution can significantly improve your chances. Programs typically last 1-2 years and cover:

• Turbine blade inspection and maintenance
• Electrical systems troubleshooting
• Gearbox and generator repair
• Hydraulics systems
• Safety protocols at height

For program listings, check out institutions like Wake Technical Community College and Central Piedmont Community College, which offer state-recognized wind energy certificates suitable for applicants from Washington, NC ⁶.

3. Enter an Apprenticeship Program

Apprenticeships combine hands-on experience with classroom learning. The most competitive programs, especially those tied to large-scale wind farms like Edenton, can span 2-4 years, blending on-site and remote instruction. During this period, participants earn while they learn with average wages starting around $1,200 per week ⁴.

4. Obtain OSHA Certification

Although many training programs include OSHA 30, some employers require additional safety certification specific to wind turbine operations ⁷.

5. Get Renewables Experience

Once you’ve completed your apprenticeship, you’ll qualify for entry-level wind turbine technician roles paying north of $19.47 per hour at local projects like Edenton Wind Farm ¹. For more on experience requirements, see the Clean Power career page.

While Washington, NC currently offers limited local wind infrastructure, adjacent areas - especially those near Elizabeth City - present more established opportunities in what wind analysts categorize as a "multi-site ecosystem" within commuting distance ¹.

Wind Technician Salaries in Washington, NC vs National Averages in 2025

Wind energy technician salaries vary depending on experience and location. Here’s a snapshot of what to expect in 2025:

Entry-level technicians in Washington, NC, typically start at the lower end of the regional range, with increasing potential as skills develop and certifications accumulate. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for wind turbine technicians in the U.S. was $62,580 in May 2024 ⁵, indicating strong long-term earning potential. For detailed salary breakdowns, visit CareerExplorer.

Understanding Wind Career Growth Trajectories

The demand for wind trade careers in Washington, NC has been on an upward trend from 2020 through 2025, mirroring the statewide increase from approximately 116,817 jobs in 2020 to up to 161,000 projected by 2025 ³ - a growth of up to about 38% driven by increased wind energy development. For global and national context, refer to the WindEurope report.

While specific information on Washington, NC is limited, several state-level factors are contributing to this growth:

1. Offshore Wind Development: North Carolina's offshore wind targets of 2.8 GW by 2030 and 8 GW by 2040 create long-term job potential ⁴
2. State Policy: Recent legislation like House Bill 951 emphasizes reducing carbon emissions by 70% by 2030, supporting the transition to renewable energy ⁵
3. Industry Participation: Companies like Duke Energy are exploring offshore wind, which indicates growing interest from energy sector players ⁵

These trends support a bright future for wind energy careers in Washington, NC, particularly as offshore wind development expands along the Atlantic coast. Explore Clean Power for updates on policy impacts.

Your Next Steps

Starting a career in wind trade in Washington, NC is an exciting opportunity to play a role in the clean energy transition while pursuing a well-compensated profession. Whether you're just exploring a career shift or concerned about future earnings, following these steps will give you a clear pathway into a growing field. For more resources on entering the field, check out the BLS guide.

To take your next step, check out wind trade apprenticeship opportunities on Gild for current listings in Washington, NC, and nearby wind facilities. With the right combination of education, apprenticeship, and a little patience, your journey starts today in one of the most promising sectors in the energy field.

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