Meteorological technicians are employed to install, maintain, relocate and decommission meteorological towers and equipment used to capture information about the potential wind resource at identified locations. The data captured at these locations will inform project developers, resource scientists and project engineers about the potential wind resource as well as other factors they analyze during the site selection process. Data is also continually collected once a wind plant is operating. It is important that the meteorological towers, also referred to as met towers, and all of the accompanying equipment are installed and documented properly and reporting data accurately.

A meteorological technician typically does the following:

• Erect and install sensors on meteorological towers
• Ensure that the tower communicates properly and all sensors communicate properly with the logger
• Perform installations, operations, routine and emergency maintenance and technical support to achieve safe, cost effective operation and maintenance of MET systems
• Maintain and troubleshoot MET tower systems, communications
• Safe operation, cleaning and maintenance of vehicles, tools and equipment in accordance with company procedures to maintain a safe and efficient operation
• Interface with on-site construction and management regarding equipment/parts availability, proper construction and any issues related to technician tasks
• Work within and ensure strict adherence to all safety and environmental procedures
• Assist in the administration of field operations in areas such as development of operating procedures, environmental reporting, sub-contractor oversight, field support and inventory
• Support commissioning inspections and thoroughly document and report to management all information needed for commissioning reports, major discrepancy reports, photographic records, equipment, inventory, parts usage reports, programming and installation of met towers.

• Communication skills. Meteorological technicians should be able to provide clear and concise reports on installation progress, system issues and safety. Technicians need to understand, implement and relay instructions accurately to ensure that instruments are installed and operating properly.
• Dexterity. Many meteorological technician tasks, such as repairing small devices, connecting components, and using hand tools, require a steady hand and good hand–eye coordination.
• Mechanical skills. Meteorological technicians must be familiar with the devices they install and repair, their internal parts, and the appropriate tools needed to use, install, or fix them. They must also be able to understand manufacturer’s instructions when installing or repairing equipment.
• Navigation skills. Meteorological technicians must be able to use navigational equipment and have good locational knowledge with and without internet data. Met towers are often deployed in remote areas with limited access and poorly marked boundaries. A big challenge they face is finding the right locations, finding an acceptable access point, and respecting property boundaries. If they fail on one of those, it could cost them more than the entire contract amount in equipment and tool loss or damage, personal harm, landowner disputes, police action, etc.
• Physical stamina. Meteorological technicians often must climb towers and work at heights of 80 meters or higher, with heavy tools and equipment. Therefore, installers and repairers should be able to work for long periods without tiring easily and lift heavy items on a regular basis.
• Teamwork skills. Because workers often rely on their fellow crew members for safety, teamwork is critical.
• Technical skills. Meteorological technicians use sophisticated diagnostic equipment on instruments, data loggers and telecommunications equipment. They must be familiar with electrical systems and the appropriate tools needed to fix and maintain them.
• Troubleshooting skills. When meteorological equipment malfunctions, technicians must be able to diagnose problems and devise solutions to problems.

Bureau of Labor Statistics:

• Line installers and repairer
• Equipment installers and repairer