Wind Facility Operations Coordinator in Minnesota Career Overview
As a Wind Facility Operations Coordinator, you play a vital role in the wind energy sector, overseeing the daily operations of wind energy facilities. This position is essential to ensure that facilities operate efficiently and effectively to harness renewable energy. Your responsibilities include:
- Monitoring Performance: You track the performance of wind turbines and associated equipment, ensuring they operate at optimal levels.
- Coordinating Maintenance: You schedule and coordinate routine maintenance and necessary repairs to minimize downtime and maintain productivity.
- Team Management: You oversee teams of technicians and other staff members, promoting effective communication and collaboration to meet operational goals.
- Safety Compliance: You enforce safety protocols and industry regulations to ensure the well-being of all employees on-site and to adhere to environmental standards.
- Data Management: You collect and analyze operational data, which is critical for improving efficiency and reporting on facility performance.
- Stakeholder Liaison: You act as a liaison between various stakeholders, including management, technical teams, and external partners, facilitating a clear flow of information.
Your role not only contributes to the success of the specific facility but also supports the broader goals of sustainable energy development and environmental stewardship in Minnesota. The demand for renewable energy solutions continues to grow, making the contributions of Wind Facility Operations Coordinators increasingly important in the transition to a clean energy future.
Wind Facility Operations Coordinator Salary in Minnesota
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Wind Facility Operations Coordinator in Minnesota
To become a Wind Facility Operations Coordinator in Minnesota, you should pursue relevant educational qualifications and training that align with the industry's standards. The following degree programs are particularly beneficial:
Wind Energy System Installation and Repair Technology: This program equips you with the specific technical skills needed to install and maintain wind energy systems. Coursework typically includes hands-on training with wind turbine components and systems.
Wind Energy Technology: A degree in Wind Energy Technology provides a broader understanding of wind energy systems, including design, operation, and maintenance. This program includes both theoretical and practical components that are essential for working in wind facilities.
Electrical Engineering: A Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering covers the fundamentals of electrical systems, circuitry, and renewable energy applications. This background is valuable for addressing the technical challenges associated with wind energy operations.
Energy Systems Engineering: This program focuses on the integration of various energy systems, including renewable energy sources. It emphasizes the design and management of energy systems, particularly in optimizing performance and sustainability.
Engineering Management: Although not solely focused on wind energy, a degree in Engineering Management combines engineering principles with management practices. This knowledge is useful in overseeing operations, ensuring safety compliance, and promoting efficiency within wind facilities.
In addition to formal education, practical training through internships or co-op programs related to wind energy is also encouraged to gain hands-on experience in the field.
Best Schools to become a Wind Facility Operations Coordinator in Minnesota 2024
University of Arkansas
New York University
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Stanford University
George Washington University
Clarkson University
- Manage wind field operations, including personnel, maintenance activities, financial activities, and planning.
Wind Facility Operations Coordinator Required Skills and Competencies in Minnesota
Technical Proficiency: You should possess a solid understanding of wind turbine technology and electrical systems. Familiarity with SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems is essential for monitoring and controlling facility operations.
Analytical Skills: The ability to analyze operational data and performance metrics is important. You must be able to identify trends, assess equipment performance, and make data-driven decisions to optimize facility efficiency.
Problem-Solving Skills: You will encounter unexpected challenges that require quick and effective solutions. Developing a proactive approach to troubleshooting equipment issues and operational obstacles is vital.
Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills are necessary for effectively coordinating with team members, management, and external stakeholders. You will need to clearly articulate operational strategies and directives.
Project Management Skills: You should be able to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively. This includes the ability to plan, execute, and oversee operational projects within specified timelines and budgets.
Safety Awareness: Understanding and enforcing safety protocols is paramount. You should be knowledgeable about OSHA regulations and best practices in the renewable energy sector to ensure a safe working environment.
Team Collaboration: Working closely with engineers, technicians, and other staff requires a collaborative mindset. You should be skilled in fostering teamwork and motivating team members to achieve operational goals.
Attention to Detail: You must possess a keen eye for detail to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and to validate that all operational procedures are followed accurately.
Adaptability: The renewable energy sector is constantly evolving. You should be open to learning new technologies and methods, adapting to changes in procedures and regulations, and embracing innovative solutions.
Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with environmental regulations, industry standards, and best practices in wind energy generation is crucial for ensuring compliance and maintaining operational integrity.
Job Duties for Wind Facility Operations Coordinators
Supervise employees or subcontractors to ensure quality of work or adherence to safety regulations or policies.
Track and maintain records for wind operations, such as site performance, downtime events, parts usage, or substation events.
Train or coordinate the training of employees in operations, safety, environmental issues, or technical issues.
Electronic mail software
- IBM Lotus Notes
- Microsoft Outlook
Facilities management software
- Computerized maintenance management system CMMS
- Oracle Enterprise Asset Management eAM
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Basic Skills
- Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
- Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Social
- Changing what is done based on other people's actions
- Understanding people's reactions
Job Market and Opportunities for Wind Facility Operations Coordinator in Minnesota
The job market for Wind Facility Operations Coordinators in Minnesota is experiencing notable growth, driven by the increasing investment in renewable energy technologies and the state’s commitment to sustainable energy initiatives.
Demand for Wind Facility Operations Coordinators:
- As Minnesota continues to expand its wind energy capacity, there is a consistent demand for qualified professionals to oversee the operations of wind facilities.
- The transition towards a more sustainable energy grid invites ongoing hiring as companies seek to maintain operational efficiency and maximize energy production.
Growth Potential:
- The wind energy sector in Minnesota is projected to grow significantly over the next decade, resulting in numerous job openings and advancement opportunities within the industry.
- Emerging technologies and innovations in wind energy are creating new roles and responsibilities, further enriching the job landscape for Operations Coordinators and related positions.
Geographical Hotspots:
- Certain regions in Minnesota have become focal points for wind energy production. Key areas include:
- Southern and Southwestern Minnesota: Notable for the highest concentration of wind turbines, this region hosts many operational facilities.
- Northern Minnesota: This area is also seeing growth in wind capacity, especially as new projects come online.
- Metropolitan Areas: Cities such as Minneapolis and St. Paul serve as business and operational hubs for many renewable energy companies, offering ample opportunities for networking and professional growth.
- Certain regions in Minnesota have become focal points for wind energy production. Key areas include:
In summary, the job market for Wind Facility Operations Coordinators in Minnesota is favorable and poised for growth, providing various opportunities for career advancement.
Top Related Careers to Wind Facility Operations Coordinator 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Wind Facility Operations Coordinator in Minnesota
American Wind Energy Association (AWEA)
- Website: www.awea.org
- A leading non-profit organization that offers resources, reports, and certifications related to the wind energy industry in the U.S.
National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
- Website: www.nrel.gov
- Provides research, data, and tools that support the development and implementation of renewable energy, including wind.
Minnesota Department of Commerce – Energy Division
- Website: mn.gov/commerce
- Offers information on Minnesota’s renewable energy programs, policies, and resources. They provide insights on state-specific initiatives relevant to wind energy.
Wind Energy Technologies Office (WETO)
- Website: www.energy.gov/eere/wind
- A branch of the U.S. Department of Energy that supports the advancement of wind technologies and provides updates on industry developments.
Society of Women Engineers (SWE)
- Website: www.swe.org
- Offers networking and professional development opportunities, especially beneficial for women in engineering fields including wind energy.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – Green Power Partnership
- Website: www.epa.gov/greenpower
- A program that provides resources for organizations looking to purchase renewable energy, including wind power.
Renewable Energy World (REW)
- Website: www.renewableenergyworld.com
- A news and information platform covering various aspects of renewable energy technologies, policies, and market trends.
Wind Energy Foundation
- Website: www.windenergyfoundation.org
- Focuses on promoting the benefits of wind energy and provides educational resources and advocacy for the industry.
Working Group of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)
- Website: www.irena.org
- Offers a wealth of data, resources, and research reports pertinent to the renewable energy sector on a global scale.
Skill Builder: Wind Turbine Technician Training Program
- Website: www.skillful.com/wind-technician
- Offers training programs and certifications specifically aimed at wind turbine technicians, beneficial for aspiring coordinators.
These resources will enhance your understanding of the wind energy sector and provide valuable insights that can assist you in your professional journey as a Wind Facility Operations Coordinator in Minnesota.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Wind Facility Operations Coordinator in Minnesota
What qualifications do I need to become a Wind Facility Operations Coordinator?
To pursue a career as a Wind Facility Operations Coordinator, you typically need a bachelor's degree in a related field such as engineering, environmental science, or renewable energy. Relevant certifications and experience in operations, maintenance, or project management are also beneficial.What skills are essential for this role?
Key skills include strong technical knowledge of wind turbine operations, problem-solving abilities, project management skills, effective communication, and proficiency in data analysis software. Familiarity with safety regulations and environmental policies is also important.What are the primary responsibilities of a Wind Facility Operations Coordinator?
Your responsibilities may include overseeing the daily operations of wind facilities, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental standards, coordinating maintenance activities, managing budgets, and collaborating with engineering and project teams.What is the work environment like for this position?
The work environment can be a mix of office-based and fieldwork. You may spend time on-site at wind farms, conducting inspections, and coordinating with technical staff. Field conditions can vary based on weather and facility location.Is there a demand for Wind Facility Operations Coordinators in Minnesota?
Yes, Minnesota has a growing renewable energy sector, particularly in wind energy. This demand is driven by state policies aimed at increasing renewable energy usage, which contributes to job opportunities in this field.What is the typical salary range for this position in Minnesota?
Salaries for Wind Facility Operations Coordinators in Minnesota can vary based on experience, education, and the size of the facility. Generally, the range is between $60,000 to $95,000 per year, with the potential for higher earnings in senior positions.What career advancement opportunities exist in this field?
Opportunities for advancement may include moving into roles such as Operations Manager, Project Manager, or Facility Manager. Additional certifications and further education can help you progress in your career.What kind of companies hire Wind Facility Operations Coordinators?
Common employers include renewable energy companies, utility companies, and independent power producers. Some may also work for government agencies or consultancies focused on energy and environmental services.Do I need specialized training or certification?
While not always mandatory, certifications such as those from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) or similar organizations can enhance your qualifications. Training in specific operational software or compliance programs may also be beneficial.Can I work remotely in this position?
While some administrative tasks may be performed remotely, field oversight typically requires on-site presence. The balance between remote and on-site work may vary depending on the specific employer and project needs.