Wind Facility Operations Coordinator in Tennessee Career Overview
As a Wind Facility Operations Coordinator, you play a vital role in managing the daily operations of wind energy facilities. Your responsibilities ensure that these facilities run efficiently and contribute significantly to the renewable energy sector. Key aspects of your role include:
Monitoring Operations: You oversee the performance of wind turbines and related equipment, ensuring they operate within optimal parameters to maximize energy output.
Coordinating Maintenance: You schedule and coordinate preventive maintenance and repairs, working closely with technicians to minimize downtime and maintain operational reliability.
Data Analysis: Your role involves analyzing performance data to identify trends, assess efficiency, and support decision-making processes for operational improvements.
Compliance and Safety: You ensure that all operations adhere to industry regulations and safety standards, promoting a safe working environment for all personnel.
Collaboration: Working with various teams, including engineering, environmental, and project management, is essential to align operational goals and implement strategies for facility enhancements.
Community Engagement: You may also engage with local stakeholders and communities to educate them about wind energy, addressing concerns and fostering positive relationships.
The importance of your role cannot be overstated, as it directly influences the operational success of wind facilities, ultimately contributing to the growth of sustainable energy in Tennessee and beyond. Your efforts help support the transition to a more sustainable energy future, making a lasting impact on the environment and community.
Wind Facility Operations Coordinator Salary in Tennessee
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 Tennessee
To become a Wind Facility Operations Coordinator, you should consider pursuing one of the following educational qualifications and training programs:
Wind Energy System Installation and Repair Technology: This program focuses on the technical aspects of installing and maintaining wind energy systems, providing you with hands-on experience relevant to the field.
Wind Energy Technology: A degree in this area equips you with a solid understanding of wind energy principles, system design, and operational management, preparing you for various roles in wind energy facilities.
Electrical Engineering: An electrical engineering degree covers the fundamentals of electrical systems and components, essential for the design, construction, and operation of wind power installations.
Energy Systems Engineering: This program combines engineering principles with energy management, covering a broad spectrum of technologies, including renewable energy systems, which are vital to wind facility operations.
Engineering Management: A degree in engineering management blends engineering principles with management practices, preparing you to oversee and coordinate operations at wind facilities effectively.
In addition to these degree programs, obtaining industry certifications and undergoing training specific to wind energy operations may enhance your qualifications and readiness for the coordinator role.
Best Schools to become a Wind Facility Operations Coordinator in Tennessee 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 Tennessee
Technical Proficiency: Understand the mechanics of wind turbines, including electrical systems, hydraulic systems, and mechanical operations to troubleshoot issues effectively.
Project Management: Plan, execute, and oversee facility operations and maintenance schedules to ensure optimal performance and compliance with regulations.
Communication Skills: Convey information clearly and effectively to team members, stakeholders, and external partners through verbal and written communication.
Problem-Solving Aptitude: Analyze operational challenges and devise innovative solutions to minimize downtime and enhance facility efficiency.
Safety Awareness: Prioritize safety protocols and practices to maintain a secure work environment for all personnel, adhering to industry safety regulations.
Data Analysis: Utilize data management systems to monitor performance metrics, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions to improve operations.
Team Leadership: Foster a collaborative team environment, motivating and guiding staff while delegating tasks effectively to achieve operational goals.
Regulatory Knowledge: Stay informed about local, state, and federal regulations related to wind energy operations and ensure compliance within the facility.
Customer Service Orientation: Maintain positive relationships with stakeholders, addressing concerns and providing support to enhance customer satisfaction.
Adaptability: Be flexible in responding to changing project requirements, unexpected challenges, or advancements in technology and processes.
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 Tennessee
The job market for Wind Facility Operations Coordinators in Tennessee is oriented towards growth, reflecting the increasing investment in renewable energy, particularly wind energy. You can expect the following trends and opportunities in this sector:
Growing Demand: The push for renewable energy initiatives in Tennessee is fostering a demand for Wind Facility Operations Coordinators. As more wind facilities are constructed, the need for skilled professionals to manage and operate these sites will continue to rise.
Expansion of Wind Energy Projects: Tennessee has seen significant investments in wind energy projects, particularly in regions with favorable wind conditions. This expansion is creating additional job opportunities within the state, including roles for Wind Facility Operations Coordinators.
Geographical Hotspots:
- Western Tennessee: Areas such as Weakley County and surrounding regions have become focal points for wind energy development, largely due to their flat terrain and consistent wind patterns.
- Northeastern Tennessee: The mountainous regions in the northeast also present opportunities as advancements in technology enable the harnessing of wind energy in varied terrains.
- Collaboration with Planning Organizations: Local government bodies and energy cooperatives in towns like Lynchburg and Chattanooga are making strides in wind facility development, further increasing the need for operations coordinators.
Investment and Policy Support: The state government’s commitment to increasing renewable energy sources creates a favorable policy environment for the wind energy industry. Financial incentives and supportive legislation can facilitate the establishment of new wind facilities, subsequently boosting job opportunities for Wind Facility Operations Coordinators.
Technological Advancements: As the wind energy sector embraces emerging technologies like predictive maintenance and data analytics, there is a growing need for operations coordinators who can effectively leverage these advances.
Job Longevity and Stability: The increasing focus on sustainability suggests that positions within the wind energy sector may provide long-term employment opportunities, leading to a stable career path in this industry.
In summary, the wind energy sector in Tennessee offers promising career prospects for Wind Facility Operations Coordinators. With increasing investments, favorable geographic areas, and supportive policies, you may find a vibrant job market with diverse opportunities in this field.
Top Related Careers to Wind Facility Operations Coordinator 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Wind Facility Operations Coordinator in Tennessee
U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)
- Website: energy.gov
- The DOE provides a wealth of information on renewable energy, including wind energy policies, technologies, and research initiatives.
American Wind Energy Association (AWEA)
- Website: awea.org
- AWEA is a national trade association that represents the wind industry, offering resources on industry trends, best practices, and advocacy efforts.
Wind Energy Technologies Office
- Website: energy.gov/windtech
- This office within the DOE focuses on advancing wind technology and provides access to research documents, reports, and technical resources.
National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
- Website: nrel.gov
- NREL is a premier laboratory for renewable energy research and development. Their resources include wind energy studies, data, and educational materials.
Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)
- Website: tva.com
- TVA manages and operates renewable energy projects in Tennessee, offering insights into state-specific wind energy initiatives and job opportunities.
Institute for Energy Economics, Japan (IEEJ)
- Website: ieej.or.jp
- IEEJ publishes reports and research relevant to energy economics, which often includes discussions on wind energy and its role within global energy markets.
Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC)
- Website: gwec.net
- GWEC is an international organization that provides insights and reports on wind energy development globally, useful for understanding market dynamics and opportunities.
Local Community Colleges and Technical Institutes
- Check for programs in Renewable Energy Technology, which may offer courses pertinent to wind facility operations. Websites to consider include:
Networking Opportunities
- Join professional networks such as LinkedIn groups focused on renewable energy or wind industry discussions to connect with current professionals in your field.
Job Boards and Career Resources
- Websites like Indeed and LinkedIn Jobs can provide listings for Wind Facility Operations Coordinator positions and related careers in Tennessee.
Engaging with these resources will deepen your understanding of the wind energy sector and enhance your career prospects as a Wind Facility Operations Coordinator in Tennessee.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Wind Facility Operations Coordinator in Tennessee
What are the primary responsibilities of a Wind Facility Operations Coordinator?
You will oversee the daily operations of a wind farm, ensuring that all systems and processes function efficiently. This includes monitoring equipment performance, conducting regular inspections, coordinating maintenance activities, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.What education or qualifications are required for this role?
Most employers require a bachelor’s degree in engineering, environmental science, or a related field. Relevant experience in power generation, renewable energy, or facility management can also be beneficial.Is prior experience in the wind energy sector necessary?
While experience specifically in wind energy is advantageous, many employers value transferable skills from other areas of renewable energy or power generation. Hands-on experience with machinery and understanding safety protocols are key.What technical skills are important for a Wind Facility Operations Coordinator?
You should be proficient in using industry-specific software for monitoring and managing wind turbine performance. Strong analytical skills are important for troubleshooting issues, and familiarity with electrical systems and mechanical engineering principles is beneficial.How important is safety in this role?
Safety is paramount in the wind energy industry. You will be responsible for ensuring that all operations comply with health and safety regulations. This involves conducting safety training for staff and regularly auditing safety practices at the facility.What is the typical work environment like?
You will primarily work outdoors at a wind facility but will also spend time in an office setting for planning and reporting. Be prepared for varying weather conditions and the physical demands that accompany site inspections.What career advancement opportunities are available?
With experience, you may progress to higher management positions such as Operations Manager or Facility Manager. You may also have opportunities to specialize in areas such as project management or technical operations.Are there any specific certifications that can enhance my qualifications?
Certifications such as the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) certification for solar and wind technologies, or training in safety standards like OSHA, can be beneficial. These credentials demonstrate your commitment and expertise in the field.What are the job prospects for Wind Facility Operations Coordinators in Tennessee?
The demand for professionals in the renewable energy sector is growing as more organizations shift towards sustainable energy sources. Tennessee's investment in renewable projects suggests increasing job opportunities in this field.How does the salary for a Wind Facility Operations Coordinator compare in Tennessee?
Salaries can vary based on experience and the particular wind facility, but the average salary for this role in Tennessee typically ranges from $60,000 to $85,000 per year, with potential for additional benefits and bonuses.What skills can I develop to excel in this career?
Focus on enhancing your leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. Developing technical expertise in renewable energy technologies and project management can also help distinguish you in the field.