Job Roles

OFFSHORE WIND DATA SCIENTIST

Using data to improve the performance, reliability, and efficiency of offshore wind farms.

OVERVIEW
Offshore Wind Data Scientists analyse large volumes of operational data from wind turbines, sensors, weather systems, and electrical infrastructure to improve the performance of offshore wind farms.
Using advanced data analysis, machine learning, and modelling techniques, data scientists help operators predict equipment failures, optimise turbine performance, and improve energy production. Their work supports smarter decision-making and helps wind farms run more efficiently.
This role is ideal for people who enjoy working with data, solving complex problems, and applying technology to support renewable energy systems.

More details

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•    Analyse operational data from offshore wind turbines and sensors
•    Develop models to predict equipment failures and maintenance needs
•    Identify ways to optimise turbine performance and energy production
•    Work with engineers to interpret data insights
•    Develop data dashboards and reporting tools
•    Analyse weather, wind, and environmental data
•    Use machine learning techniques to improve system efficiency
•    Support decision-making for wind farm operations and maintenance

Location:

  • Offshore wind developer offices
  • Renewable energy technology teams
  • Engineering consultancies
  • Occasionally offshore wind farm operations centres

·         Work Pattern:

  • Primarily office-based or remote analytical work
  • Collaboration with engineering and operations teams
  • Standard working hours

Conditions:

  • Working with large datasets and advanced analytical tools
  • Collaborative digital working environments
  • Supporting operational teams across different locations

Team Structure:

You will work alongside:

  • Electrical and mechanical engineers
  • SCADA technicians
  • Wind farm operations teams
  • Software developers
  • Asset management teams 

Essential Skills

  • Data analysis and statistical modelling
  • Programming (e.g., Python, R, SQL)
  • Machine learning techniques
  • Data visualisation and dashboard development
  • Problem solving and analytical thinking
  • Communication of technical insights

Useful Skills

  • Renewable energy systems knowledge
  • Wind turbine performance modelling
  • Big data tools and cloud computing
  • Data engineering and database management
  • Understanding of SCADA data systems

University Degrees

  • Data Science
  • Computer Science
  • Mathematics or Statistics
  • Engineering (with data analytics specialisation)
  • Physics

Graduate Programs:

  • Some renewable energy companies offer graduate programmes in digital technology, analytics, or engineering, providing entry routes into offshore wind data science roles.

Industry Transition Routes:

  • Technology companies
  • Energy sector analytics roles
  • Financial data analysis
  • Manufacturing or engineering analytics

Typically Required

  • Degree in data science, computer science, mathematics, or engineering
  • Experience working with large datasets and analytical tools

Desirable

  • Machine learning and AI training
  • Data visualisation tools (e.g., Power BI or Tableau)
  • Cloud computing and big data platforms

Brijesh - Data Engineer at the ORE Catapult

Relevant Training Courses

The video on the right features Data Engineer, Brijesh Suryawanshi, who talks about his role on an offshore wind project at the Levenmouth Demonstration Turbine at the Energy Park Fife.

Gerard Cavero, R&D Data Scientist at wind modelling company, Vortex

Salary and progression

Salary Range (Scotland)

  • Graduate Data Scientist: £30,000 – £40,000
  • Data Scientist: £40,000 – £65,000
  • Senior Data Scientist: £65,000 – £90,000+

Career Progression

  • Senior Data Scientist
  • Renewable Energy Analytics Lead
  • Digital Innovation Manager
  • Wind Farm Performance Manager
  • Chief Data or Technologist roles within renewable energy companies

The video on the left features Gerard Cavero, an R&D Data Scientist working at wind modelling company, Vortex. Gerard gives us some insight into the role of data analytics in offshore wind. Gerard was interviewed at an international Energy Transition Expo in Rimini, Italy for PES Wind.