Australia’s wind energy sector is booming, fuelled by a national push toward renewable energy and sustainability. With wind farms popping up across the country, the demand for skilled wind turbine technicians is higher than ever. These professionals keep wind turbines spinning, ensuring a steady supply of clean energy—a critical piece of Australia’s goal to reach 82% renewable energy by 2030.
If you’re intrigued by a career that blends technical skill, outdoor work, and environmental impact, becoming a wind turbine technician could be your calling. But how do you get started? The key lies in a mix of education, hands-on training, and specialised certifications—most notably through Global Wind Organisation (GWO) courses. In Australia, Skylar Education stands out as a premier provider of GWO training, offering the tools you need to break into this growing field.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the steps to become a wind turbine technician in Australia, spotlighting the GWO courses offered by Skylar Education. From training requirements to job prospects, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to launch your career in wind energy.
What Is a Wind Turbine Technician?
Before jumping into the how-to, let’s clarify what wind turbine technicians do. These skilled workers are the backbone of wind farms, tasked with installing, maintaining, and repairing wind turbines. Their work keeps these towering machines—often over 100 meters tall—running smoothly to generate electricity from the wind.
Key Responsibilities
- Maintenance: Regularly inspecting and servicing mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems.
- Repairs: Troubleshooting and fixing issues to minimize downtime.
- Safety: Climbing turbines and working at heights or in confined spaces, all while adhering to strict safety protocols.
- Installation: Assisting with the setup of new turbines as wind farms expand.
This role is hands-on and dynamic, often requiring technicians to brave various weather conditions and remote locations. With wind energy powering 7.1% of Australia’s electricity and 94 wind farms contributing nearly 16 GW of capacity (as of 2018, per the Australian Renewable Energy Agency), technicians are vital to keeping this renewable resource thriving.
Why Choose This Career?
A career as a wind turbine technician offers more than just a paycheck. Here’s why it’s worth considering:
- Job Growth: The wind sector is expanding, with over 100 job openings currently listed on platforms like SEEK.
- Solid Pay: Salaries range from AU$60,000–AU$80,000 for beginners to an average of AU$105,000 with experience.
- Impact: You’ll contribute directly to Australia’s clean energy future.
- Adventure: Work in unique settings, from coastal plains to rugged outback regions.
Ready to dive in? Let’s break down the steps to get there.
Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Wind Turbine Technician in Australia
Becoming a wind turbine technician requires preparation, training, and certification. Here’s your roadmap:
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
- Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is typically the minimum. Courses in math, science, or technology can give you a head start.
- Fitness: You’ll need physical stamina to climb turbines and handle equipment—think of it as a job that doubles as a workout!
Step 2: Get Technical Training
While some technicians learn on the job, formal training gives you an edge. Options include:
- Technical Schools or Community Colleges: These offer certificates or associate degrees in wind energy technology, covering turbine systems, safety, and maintenance. Programs usually take 1–2 years.
- Apprenticeships: Combine classroom learning with paid, hands-on experience under seasoned pros. These also last 1–2 years and are a great way to build practical skills.
Step 3: Complete GWO Training with Skylar Education
The Global Wind Organisation (GWO) sets the gold standard for wind industry safety training. GWO courses are a must-have for wind turbine technicians, covering critical skills like working at heights, first aid, and rescue operations. In Australia, Skylar Education is a top choice for GWO-certified training.
Why GWO Matters
Wind turbine work can be risky—think heights, tight spaces, and unpredictable weather. GWO courses ensure you’re equipped to handle these challenges safely. Plus, many employers require GWO certification, making it a ticket to job opportunities.
Skylar Education’s GWO Courses
Skylar Education, a registered training organization (RTO 21647), offers a range of GWO programs tailored to wind turbine technicians. Here’s what they provide:
| Course | Price | Duration | What You’ll Learn |
|---|---|---|---|
| GWO Basic Safety Training (BST) – Initial | $2205 | 4 days | First aid, fire awareness, working at heights, manual handling |
| GWO Basic Safety Training (BST) – Refresher | $1690 | 3 days | Refreshes BST skills to maintain certification |
| GWO Advanced Rescue Training (ART) – Initial | $1890 | 3 days | Advanced rescue techniques for emergencies |
| GWO Advanced Rescue Training (ART) – Refresher | $1890 | 3 days | Updates ART skills for ongoing certification |
- BST: The foundation course, perfect for newcomers. It teaches essential safety skills over 4 days for $2205. A 3-day refresher ($1690) keeps your certification current.
- ART: For those ready to level up, this 3-day course ($1890) focuses on rescue operations—crucial if you’re working in teams or at complex sites. A refresher is available too.
Skylar’s courses are led by industry experts and boast a 4.9-star Google Reviews rating, reflecting their quality and student satisfaction. Check our the courses on offer here.
Step 4: Gain Hands-On Experience
Theory is great, but experience seals the deal. Look for:
- Internships: Short-term gigs to get your foot in the door.
- Entry-Level Jobs: Start small with roles like assistant technician to build real-world skills.
- Apprenticeship Practical Hours: If you’re in an apprenticeship, this is built in.
Step 5: Boost Your Credentials
Beyond GWO, consider certifications for specific turbine models (e.g., from manufacturers like Vestas or GE) or advanced technical skills. These extras can make you stand out to employers.
Step 6: Land a Job
With training and certifications in hand, start applying. Check job boards like SEEK or connect with major players like:
Entry-level roles often start at AU$60,000–AU$80,000, with plenty of room to grow as you gain experience.
The Job Market: What to Expect
Australia’s wind energy sector is on an upward trajectory. With the government aiming for 82% renewable energy by 2030, wind turbine jobs could double in the next decade (ARENA). Current listings show salaries averaging AU$105,000, though beginners typically earn AU$60,000–AU$80,000.
Where the Jobs Are
Wind farms are scattered across states like Victoria, South Australia, and New South Wales. Be ready for travel or relocation—many sites are rural, offering a chance to explore Australia’s vast landscapes.
Big Employers
Companies like GE, Vestas, and Siemens Gamesa lead the pack, offering competitive pay and career development. Smaller firms and contractors also hire, especially as new projects launch.
Table: Pay Rates for Wind Turbine Technicians in Australia (2025)
Here’s a table summarising the pay rates for wind turbine technicians across different experience levels, based on industry data and averages from sources like PayScale and SEEK:
| Experience Level | Hourly Pay (AUD) | Annual Pay (AUD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (1–4 years) | $38.00 | $60,000 – $80,000 | Starting range for beginners |
| Mid-Level (5–9 years) | $40.00 | $83,200 | Based on full-time (2080 hrs/year) |
| Experienced (10+ years) | $43.00 | $105,000 | Average for seasoned technicians |
| National Average | $40.00 | $83,200 | Midpoint across all levels |
Source: PayScale 2025 data, SEEK job listings, and industry estimates.
Growing Your Career
Start as a technician, but don’t stop there. With experience, you can climb the ladder to:
- Lead Technician: Oversee teams and projects.
- Maintenance Manager: Run operations for entire wind farms.
- Specialised Roles: Move into engineering or project management with further education.
Pro Tips for Success
- Stay Current: Follow industry trends—new tech and policies shape the field.
- Safety First: Update your GWO certifications regularly; it’s non-negotiable.
- Network: Join industry groups or LinkedIn communities to connect with pros and find opportunities.
- Be Adaptable: Remote work and odd hours come with the territory—embrace the flexibility.
Why Skylar Education?
Skylar Education isn’t just a training provider—it’s a launchpad for your wind energy career. Their GWO courses are practical, industry-aligned, and taught by experts who’ve been in your shoes. With competitive pricing, flexible options (initial and refresher courses), and a stellar reputation, Skylar sets you up for success.
Interested? Visit Skylar Education’s course offerings to explore courses and enrol.
Learn More About GWO Training
Want to dig deeper into what GWO training entails? At Skylar Education, we’ve put together a detailed guide explaining the essentials of GWO training and why it’s a cornerstone of wind turbine safety. From understanding the core modules to seeing how they prepare you for real-world challenges, it’s a great resource for anyone serious about a career in wind energy. Check it out here: What Is GWO Training? Essentials in Wind Turbine Safety. This is your chance to explore how wind turbine training can set you up for success in this exciting industry.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a wind turbine technician in Australia is a smart move for anyone passionate about renewable energy and hands-on work. With GWO training from Skylar Education, you’ll gain the skills, safety know-how, and certifications to thrive in this high-demand field. The wind sector is growing, the pay is solid, and the impact is real—why not take the leap?
Start today. Your career in wind energy is waiting.
