The wind industry is not new – the first commercial wind farm in Ireland was opened in 1992 in Co Mayo. It is however, an industry that is experiencing huge growth. There are in fact, more jobs in wind than people currently qualified to carry them out. Government targets to tackle climate change means there are even more of these green jobs on the way.
So, what type of jobs are there? If we break it down into categories you can get an idea of the sheer range of jobs available:
e.g. Grid Infrastructure Planner - Designs and plans the integration of electricity produced by wind farms into the electrical grid.
Ornithologists - Scientists who specialise in the study of birds, which includes their behaviour, ecology and conservation. They survey a proposed wind farm site and assess the risk for any potential impacts on birds.
e.g. Wind Data Engineer - Tests, analyses and measures wind efficiency and suggest ways to improve energy production.
Mechanical / Hydraulics Technician - Responsible for service and maintenance work on all wind turbines and associated hydraulic and mechanical equipment.
e.g. Environmental Compliance Coordinator - Coordinates and tracks compliance with environmental permits and regulations, ensuring wind energy projects meet required standards.
Policy Specialist - Engages with policymakers and advocates for policies and regulations that support and promote the growth of the wind energy sector and sustainability goals.
e.g. Wind Energy Investment Analyst - Someone who looks at investment opportunities in the wind energy sector, assesses financial viability, and provides recommendations for sustainable investment decisions.
Risk Manager - Has overall responsibility for identifying potential project risks, conducting risk analyses and preparing and implementing risk management plans for project policies and procedures.
e.g. Renewable Energy Educator - Delivers educational programs to promote renewable wind energy and sustainability practices.
Social Media Specialist - Uses social media platforms and strategies to effectively communicate, engage, and promote brands, organisations, products or services.
More information on each category and the related occupations can be found here.
If you're interested in any of the subjects below then picture yourself working in wind! Click on the links to find out more about the careers best suited to these subject areas:
Meet the people leading Ireland’s wind energy revolution - Read about their career stories here.
