Wind Energy Engineers
Wind Energy Engineers design the electrical systems that collect and transmit power from wind turbines across wind farms. They develop site specifications and plan underground or overhead collector systems. These engineers work for renewable energy companies, engineering firms, and utility companies, typically in offices and at wind farm sites.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against wind energy engineers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A wind energy engineer might spend part of the week analyzing site conditions and electrical requirements for a new wind farm project. They review topographic maps, soil data, and grid connection points. Other days involve drafting collector system layouts, coordinating with surveyors and construction teams, or troubleshooting issues on existing installations. Regular communication with project managers and electrical contractors is common.
Who this work suits
Holland code RIC. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy solving technical problems through careful analysis and testing—the investigative side of engineering. You're drawn to practical, tangible work where you can see designs implemented in real-world settings, rather than purely theoretical work. You're comfortable with detailed planning and specifications that others will build from.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico | $119,430 | $162,070 | $180,190 | 2,190 |
| Alabama | $116,040 | $152,550 | $183,040 | 3,460 |
| District of Columbia | $101,990 | $151,920 | $185,220 | 3,560 |
| Virginia | $116,920 | $148,160 | $181,660 | 5,060 |
| Alaska | $123,120 | $142,390 | $164,260 | 200 |
| Washington | $109,550 | $134,570 | $168,550 | 3,580 |
| Colorado | $105,050 | $132,590 | $164,800 | 2,540 |
| New Jersey | $93,670 | $132,450 | $170,460 | 4,540 |
| Massachusetts | $103,010 | $131,260 | $162,470 | 2,850 |
| Idaho | $100,430 | $130,970 | $153,570 | 560 |
| California | $98,520 | $130,850 | $169,830 | 28,610 |
| Maryland | $83,840 | $129,770 | $172,580 | 7,340 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE) — American Society for Quality
- Certified Energy Procurement Professional (CEP) — Association of Energy Engineers
- Residential Energy Inspector/Plans Examiner (REI-PE) — International Code Council
- Certified Energy Manager (CEM) — Association of Energy Engineers
- Certified Green Building Engineer (GBE) — Association of Energy Engineers
- Certified Planning Engineer (CPE) — American Academy of Project Management
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against wind energy engineers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 17-2199.10 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.