Geothermal technicians help ensure that
geothermal energy resources power up
plants and buildings around the clock.
They monitor gauges and dials on equipment,
and perform maintenance and repairs.
They also keep logs and write reports
on energy production,
and the work they perform.
In residences and commercial buildings,
technicians may install geothermal heat pumps
and perform tests to ensure they run properly.
Many technicians work outdoors
in all kinds of weather conditions.
They may operate excavation equipment
such as backhoes,
or dig trenches by hand, but either way,
the work can be challenging and tiring.
Following safety precautions is essential.
Geothermal technicians typically work
40 hours or more in a week.
Most technicians have a set schedule
but it’s not uncommon for routines to change
in response to production demands.
A high school diploma or equivalent
is the most common formal education
for geothermal technicians,
but many earn certificates
or professional certifications related to the field,
such as Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning,
known as HVAC,
or Environmental Protection Agency-sponsored certifications.