Wind Energy Engineer

Your Fit

Income

$118K

Preparation

Considerable

Growth

3.3%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Wind Energy Engineer?

A Wind Energy Engineer specializes in the design, development, and maintenance of wind turbines and other wind energy systems. They apply principles of mechanical, electrical, and environmental engineering to harness wind power effectively and sustainably.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Wind Energy Engineer.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Wind Energy Engineer earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$63K per year	$86K per year	$118K per year	$153K per year	$184K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $68K above the national average.

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What does a Wind Energy Engineer do?

Work environment

Wind Energy Engineers work in various settings, including engineering firms, energy companies, research institutions, and government agencies. Their work environment may range from offices for design and analysis to outdoor wind farm sites for installation, testing, and maintenance. Travel to wind farm locations, sometimes in remote areas, is often required.

Quick task list

Designs and tests wind turbines and components.
Analyzes wind site data to determine suitability and optimal placement of turbines.
Develops plans for wind energy projects, including cost estimates and project timelines.
Oversees the installation and maintenance of wind turbines and wind farms.
Ensures compliance with environmental regulations and safety standards.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Turbine Design: Focusing on designing efficient and durable wind turbine components.
Project Development: Managing the development of wind energy projects from conception to completion.
Energy Analysis: Analyzing data to assess the viability and efficiency of wind energy sites.
Operations and Maintenance: Ensuring optimal functioning and maintenance of wind turbines and wind farms.
Environmental Impact Analysis: Assessing and mitigating the environmental impacts of wind energy projects.

Description

Wind Energy Engineering is a rapidly growing field driven by the global push for sustainable and renewable energy sources. Engineers in this field combine a passion for environmental conservation with engineering skills to develop one of the cleanest sources of energy. They must understand the dynamics of wind and use this knowledge to design turbines that efficiently convert wind energy into electricity.

This occupation requires a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Wind Energy Engineers must be adept in using sophisticated software for design and simulation, as well as comfortable with hands-on work in wind farm construction and maintenance. They often work in multidisciplinary teams and must communicate effectively with other engineers, technicians, project managers, and stakeholders.

The field is evolving with advancements in technology and materials. Engineers must stay updated with the latest innovations in turbine design, energy storage, and grid integration. They also need to navigate the challenges of environmental impact, regulatory compliance, and community engagement in wind farm development.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Contributing to the advancement of sustainable and renewable energy.
The opportunity to work on innovative projects at the forefront of energy technology.
Seeing the tangible impact of one's work in the form of operational wind energy projects.

You might make a good Wind Energy Engineer if you are...

Passionate about renewable energy and environmental sustainability.
Strong in analytical and problem-solving skills.
Proficient in areas of mechanical and electrical engineering.
Comfortable working in both office settings and outdoor environments.
A good communicator, able to collaborate with diverse teams.

Pros:

Growing demand due to the global focus on renewable energy.
Opportunities to work on innovative and impactful projects.
Potential for career growth as the wind energy sector expands.

Cons:

Work can sometimes be physically demanding, especially in outdoor settings.
May require travel and work in remote locations.
Keeping pace with rapid technological advancements and regulatory changes in the renewable energy sector.

How to become a Wind Energy Engineer

Typical education

Typically, a bachelor's degree in mechanical, electrical, or environmental engineering, or a related field, is required, amounting to about 4 years of post-secondary education. Some positions may benefit from a master's degree or additional specialized training in wind energy or renewable energy technologies.

High school preparation

Courses:

Physics and Mathematics, especially calculus, for engineering fundamentals.
Environmental Science to understand sustainability and renewable energy.
Computer Science for skills in modeling and simulation software.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participating in science clubs or environmental groups.
Engaging in engineering or robotics competitions.
Volunteering in community projects focused on sustainability and renewable energy.

Preparation after high school

Earning a bachelor's degree in mechanical, electrical, or environmental engineering.
Gaining hands-on experience through internships in renewable energy companies.
Pursuing specialized courses or certifications in wind energy or sustainable engineering.
Considering a master's degree for advanced roles or research positions.

More resources

American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) - Provides resources, information, and networking opportunities in wind energy.
Wind Systems Magazine - Offers industry news and insights into wind energy technology and operations.
Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) - A global trade association representing the wind power industry.
National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) - Wind Research - Provides cutting-edge research and information on wind energy.
International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) - Offers comprehensive resources on renewable energy, including wind energy development and policy.

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