Pre-Employment Tests For Wind Turbine Service Technicians
Top Skills and Abilities:
- Deductive Reasoning
- Troubleshooting
- Repairing
- Near Vision
- Problem Sensitivity
Top 3 Tasks:
- Diagnose problems involving wind turbine generators or control systems
- Climb wind turbine towers to inspect, maintain, or repair equipment
- Test electrical components of wind systems with devices such as voltage testers, multimeters, oscilloscopes, infrared testers, or fiber optic equipment
Overview
Wind turbine service technicians, also known as windtechs, install, maintain, and repair wind turbines. This involves inspecting the physical integrity of the towers and blades, performing routine maintenance, and replacing old or defective components. They may also troubleshoot the electrical and mechanical components of wind turbine systems, as well as collect data for research and analysis. The employment of wind turbine service technicians has one of the largest projected growth rates for the next 10 years, at 96%. This is much higher than the national average of 7%, partially because there are so few wind turbine service technician jobs presently. Though the number of windtech jobs is expected to nearly double, the predicted increase in actual jobs is 5,600.
Requirements
An aptitude for learning about mechanics and machinery is crucial for success in the position. Windtechs work outdoors, in remote, rural locations, since windfarms are built far away from urban areas. They are required to work from great heights, climbing extremely tall ladders or often rappelling – descending by sliding down a rope – to where they need to work. Generally, wind turbine service technicians learn their trade through technical school and associate degree programs. A bachelor’s degree is not usually a requirement for the position.
Assessments for Wind Turbine Service Technicians
There are two tests recommended when hiring for wind turbine service technicians. The Wiesen Test of Mechanical Aptitude (WTMA) measures a candidate’s mechanical aptitude and looks at their ability to learn, operate, maintain, and repair machinery and equipment. Additionally, since windtechs work in dangerous situations, including with dangerous machinery and at great heights, a behavioral risk assessment is also recommended. The Workplace Productivity Profile (WPP) is used to evaluate an applicant's reliability and attitudes toward rule following and adherence to safety procedures.
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Source: U.S. Department of Labor