The development of alternative energy production relies on a backbone of technicians to operate energy generation systems and equipment. Alternative energy plant and system technicians operate machinery such as valves, pumps, and generators to produce energy. They monitor gauges and meters to ensure safe, efficient production, and adjust equipment as needed. They also inspect equipment, and perform maintenance and repairs. These technicians work with a variety of fuel sources: Corn, sugarcane, soybeans and other plants are used to produce biofuels. Technicians operate centrifuges and other equipment to produce biofuels at a steady rate of production; they later lab-test fuel to ensure quality and consistency. Methane gas is collected from landfills, where it rises from solid waste decomposing in municipal stations. Technicians monitor the environment, maintain pumps and blower systems, and troubleshoot problems that occur as gases are captured, converted, and used as a renewable energy resource. Woody materials and animal manure are the primary sources of biomass that technicians convert into energy. They adjust energy production, and record readings on meters and gauges. At hydropower stations, the force of water released from a dam turns the blades of a turbine, generating electricity. Technicians keep generators and other equipment functioning properly. Jobs in these fields usually require a high school diploma, although hydroelectric plant technicians may need related technical training or an associate's degree.
What they do:
Calculate, measure, load, mix, and process refined feedstock with additives in fermentation or reaction process vessels and monitor production process. Perform, and keep records of, plant maintenance, repairs, and safety inspections.
On the job, you would:
Monitor batch, continuous flow, or hybrid biofuels production processes.
Operate valves, pumps, engines, or generators to control and adjust biofuels production.
Monitor and record biofuels processing data.
Manufactured or Agricultural Goods
manufacture and distribution of products
Engineering and Technology
mechanical
computers and electronics
Arts and Humanities
English language
Safety and Government
public safety and security
Basic Skills
reading work related information
keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
Social
changing what is done based on other people's actions
understanding people's reactions
Verbal
communicate by speaking
listen and understand what people say
Hand and Finger Use
hold or move items with your hands
keep your arm or hand steady
Attention
pay attention to something without being distracted
do two or more things at the same time
Controlled Movement
quickly change the controls of a machine, car, truck or boat
People interested in this work like activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions.
They do well at jobs that need:
Attention to Detail
Dependability
Cooperation
Integrity
Adaptability/Flexibility
Concern for Others
You might use software like this on the job:
Object or component oriented development software
Python
R
Analytical or scientific software
Data visualization software
SAS
Industrial control software
Digital control systems DCS
Human machine interface HMI software
high school diploma/GED or certificate after high school usually needed
Get started on your career:
New job opportunities are less likely in the future.
$58,390
$34,350
$84,460
You might like a career in one of these industries:
In the military:
see titles from the Army.
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