Geothermal Technician
Perform technical activities at power plants or individual installations necessary for the generation of power from geothermal energy sources. Monitor and control operating activities at geothermal power generation facilities and perform maintenance and repairs as necessary. Install, test, and maintain residential and commercial geothermal heat pumps.
Annual openings
482
BLS median wage
$50,840
Typical education
Associate's degree
10-year growth
+5%
Career requirements
What does this career require?
The education, credentials, and on-the-job competencies Colorado employers expect for this role.
Typical education
Associate's degree
Credential requirement
No specific credential listed yet
Work experience
This is an entry-level role so no experience is required.
Employer competency information
- Lifelong Learning - Renewables is a growing industry. Careers can go many different directions if employees want to learn more.
- Working with Tools and Technology — The ability to use tools to construct things in a safe manner, mechanical/electrical aptitude, the ability to solve problems, the use of computers, and the ability to read schematics are valuable.
- Communication and Teamwork — You will be working as part of a team, so good communication and teamwork skills and a positive attitude are important.
- Working outdoors — Installation work is generally outdoors and involves physical activity, so an interest in working outside is a plus for many of the jobs.
Is this work a fit?
What the work actually feels like
How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.
Automation exposure
High exposure
Many tasks are repeatable, so technology could reshape the day-to-day over time.
A typical day
- Monitor and adjust operations of geothermal power plant equipment or systems.
- Prepare and maintain logs, reports, or other documentation of work performed.
- Collect and record data associated with operating geothermal power plants or well fields.
- Determine whether emergency or auxiliary systems will be needed to keep properties heated or cooled in extreme weather conditions.
- Perform pre- and post-installation pressure, flow, and related tests of vertical and horizontal geothermal loop piping.
- Identify equipment options, such as compressors, and make appropriate selections.