Breaking into the wind sector can seem challenging, whether you’re transitioning from another industry or just starting your career. While landing your first role can take some patience and perseverance, the opportunities a wind career offers make it well worth the effort.
3t’s Head of Funded Learning, Charlie Guthrie works closely with wind sector employers and knows what they are looking for when recruiting for roles. In this article, he breaks down the steps to help you stand out among applicants and secure a role.
Use LinkedIn for research and networking
“LinkedIn is your most powerful tool for breaking into the energy sector” Charlie says. Companies constantly promote contract wins, new projects, and different activities on their profiles. Search for specific projects like “wind turbine construction projects”, or major developments like “Dogger Bank wind farm” and pay attention to posts mentioning recruitment needs or specific skills requirements. Even if they’re advertising for experienced candidates, this will help you see which companies are actively hiring and might be open to speculative CVs.
Beyond research, engage meaningfully with industry content. People often watch what’s happening on LinkedIn but don’t always take part. Share posts from companies you’re interested in, comment thoughtfully on industry discussions, and give kudos to others in the sector. Or if you’ve completed training, post about your experience and tag your instructors. People notice when you’re being supportive and generous with recognition, and this reflects well on you.
Build a recruiter contact list
Create a systematic approach to staying visible with recruiters. Through LinkedIn posts and company pages, identify recruiters who work in your target area. Many share their email addresses when posting about vacancies.
Develop a schedule to email your contact list every two weeks. Your messages should be brief updates such as: “I’ve just completed this training course and am available to mobilise from this date” or “I’ve just finished a project and will be available from this date”.
The goal is to appear regularly in their inbox with your CV attached, so when they need someone urgently (which is often last-minute), your name is near the top of their emails.
Optimise your CV layout and language
Put your relevant skills right at the top of your CV, but frame them in the context of your target industry. Instead of “HGV mechanic experience,” write “experience with hydraulics and heavy machinery” to highlight how your experience translates to the wind industry.
Don’t forget to include both completed and planned courses too. If you have rope access training booked but not yet completed, include it with “booked for [month]” in brackets. This shows initiative and forward planning.
Avoid industry-specific acronyms unless you explain them. Hiring managers might not share your professional background, so make your skills as accessible as possible to them.
Network through training courses
When attending courses at 3t’s training centres, you will probably be around people who are already working in the industry. Some may even be on your course.
Take advantage of the opportunity to talk to fellow delegates during breaks or while waiting for sessions to begin. Learn about what they do and if they know of any job openings. You never know what an informal conversation could lead to.
Attend industry events and exhibitions
At major industry events like Offshore Europe or Offshore Wind North East company representatives are there to help whoever approaches their stand.
“I am always happy to talk to people who visit our stand at events” Charlie says. “And because few people actually do this, you’ll stand out from the crowd.”
If entry fees are prohibitive, contact event organisers directly. Explain your circumstances and ask about student rates or complimentary access. Many organisers are surprisingly accommodating.
Be prepared to take a backwards or sideways move
Accept that your first role might be below your ultimate career aspirations. You may need to step down a few levels to get your foot in the door, then climb back up more quickly than if you’d started elsewhere.
Taking on a “lower-level” role could provide offshore experience on your CV and opportunities for internal progression. Similarly, getting any role with a recognised company puts that respected brand name on your CV, which can open doors for future applications.
Be specific about your target role
“Saying ‘I want to work offshore’ is like saying ‘I want to be a driver’ without specifying whether you mean trains, buses, or taxis” explains Charlie. “The wind sector offers a wide range of offshore roles, from wind turbine technicians and blade repair specialists to project managers and catering staff.”
Research specific job titles and be precise about your interests. This helps recruiters understand exactly what you’re looking for and increases your chances of being matched with suitable opportunities.
Understand seasonality and set realistic expectations
The wind industry follows distinct recruitment patterns. Experienced candidates are typically hired from January to March. By April and May, companies start recruiting those with relevant but non-offshore experience (such as oil and gas workers or ex-military personnel). Come July, newcomers with minimal relevant experience may get opportunities.
Don’t expect to finish training and immediately have multiple job offers to compare. Set expectations that job hunting will take persistence, but don’t lose hope.
Be persistent but professional
Stay in regular contact with interested recruiters, but be strategic about it. If a recruiter expresses interest, get their phone number and follow up with regular updates. Limit phone contact to recruiters who’ve already shown interest and use email for broader outreach. Ensure each communication adds value rather than simply repeating previous messages.
Ready to get started in offshore wind?
Remember that the sector needs diverse skills beyond technical roles. Whether your background is in hospitality, military service, or traditional trades, there’s likely a pathway that makes use of your existing experience while opening doors to your career goals.
With persistence and the right approach, your wind sector career is well within reach.
If you’re ready to gain the skills you need for a career in wind visit our website to learn more.