O&R - Blade Technician II / III / Lead (Up Tower/Platform Crew)

Summary

Supporting our Operations & Repair division, Blade Repair Technicians 2 & 3 handle inspections, services, and/or repairs on the composite components of wind turbines, including but not limited to blades, nacelles, and nose cones. Blade repairs are performed up-tower from a cable-suspended platform. The qualified candidate will be required to work on various wind farms across the United States. This is a full-time traveling position.

Essential Functions

• Demonstrate commitment to safety and adhere to TAKKION's mission and values.
• Perform blade repairs and inspections at heights (up to 300+ feet).
• Identify and investigate blade damages up to severity level 5.
• Identify the bottom of damage and count the number/types of laminates affected.
• Understand the differences between common blade glass and core materials.
• Map out a scarf using given ratios without assistance.
• Perform mapped scarfing and smooth chamfering with a 4.5-inch angle grinder.
• Measure/cut layers and weigh/mix the proper amount of resin.
• Apply hand laminations to vertical surfaces of up to 10 layers at a time.
• Perform vacuum consolidation processes in the field.
• Understand reverse stack versus standard stack laminations.
• Conduct elevated temperature post-cure processes using electric heat blankets.
• Perform Shore D hardness testing.
• Mix, apply, cure, and sand flush fairing fillers.
• Properly mask, mix, apply, and cure topcoat paints.
• Maintain good housekeeping practices and clean up as you go.
• Perform LEP applications (both liquid and tape/boots).
• Conduct internal blade inspections and borescope inspections from the exterior.
• Perform tap tests to identify damage.
• Safely operate, shut down, and LOTO various WTGs.
• Safely rig, set up, and operate blade access platforms.
• Set up and safely operate platform taglines.
• Ensure quality workmanship.
• Test and troubleshoot LPS from blade receptors to the hub.
• Perform internal/external tower cleaning as needed.
• Inspect and document damages and all repair steps.
• Complete reporting and documentation with photos throughout the process.
• Communicate with the Engineering/Technical Team via phone/text as required.
• Drive full-sized pickup trucks (3/4 ton) and safely hook up, tow, back up, and park trailers up to 24 feet long, weighing up to 10,000 lbs.
• Communicate professionally with the customer on-site on a daily basis.

Education & Experience Requirements/Competencies 

To perform the essential functions of this position successfully, an individual should be able to demonstrate and provide the following:

• HS diploma or GED equivalent.
• Blade-specific composite repair training/certifications are preferred.
• Any OEM blade-specific certifications/experience/training is preferred.
• Must be fluent and able to read, write and speak English.
• (Tech Level 2) Three (3) or more years of functional experience, specifically in utility-scale wind blade repair and a willingness to acquire all necessary certifications to perform training.
• (Tech Level 3) Five (5) or more years of functional experience, specifically in utility-scale wind blade repair and a willingness to acquire all necessary certifications to perform training.
• OSHA 10 (Construction), NFPA 70E, First Aid/CPR beneficial, but not required. Training will be provided.
• Extensive knowledge in Word, Excel and Outlook and the ability and willingness to learn new software applications.
• Excellent organizational skills, communications skills, the ability to multi-task, and most importantly, the ability to work well in a team.
• Demonstrated openness to change, flexibility, and adaptability.
• Strong analytical thinker with the ability to resolve complex issues.
• Self-starter with a drive for continuous improvement of the business operations.
• Express willingness to step out of the box to assist other teams to meet and overcome challenges for the company.

This position is largely self-directed and requires understanding of company policy, procedures, and values. Team members will be required to adhere to all safety requirements in all work environments. This position operates in a field environment.  

Specific requirements include

• Ability to climb ladders up to heights of 300 plus feet
• Must not exceed 280 lbs. for safety of employee – PFPE requirement
• Work in confined spaces with diverse environmental conditions
• Ability to lift up to 80 lbs.
• Possess a valid driver’s license and ability to obtain a passport
• Ability to travel for up to six (6) weeks at a time and ability to work overnight shifts/weekends

 TAKKION is an equal opportunity employer.