Subscriber engineer, water and sewer

What does a subscriber engineer in water and sewage do? – Tasks and work environment

A subscriber engineer in water and sewage is responsible for ensuring that water and sewage facilities operate efficiently and that consumers have access to clean water and effective sewage management. Tasks include designing water and sewage systems, investigations related to connections, advising customers, and coordinating between technical, administrative, and legal aspects. The role often also involves handling permit cases, performing technical calculations, and participating in development projects to improve infrastructure. The work environment is varied and can include both office work and site visits at facilities or construction sites, where safety routines are of utmost importance.

Salary development over time

The salary for a subscriber engineer in water and sewage has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 41,500 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 43 700 SEK, corresponding to an increase of about 5.4%. In 2024, the average salary has continued up to 45 300 SEK, which is an additional increase of about 3.7% compared to the previous year. This salary development reflects an increased demand for technical expertise within the water and sewage sector, where technological development and growing environmental requirements have contributed to raising the profession’s status. The salary increase can also be linked to a large need for qualified engineers, especially in the public sector where infrastructure investments are extensive.

Subscriber engineer, water and sewage salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 45 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 37,000 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 68,000 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, doctoral degree)
• Lowest salary for men: 39,900 SEK/month
• Highest salary for men: 50,500 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 272 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn on average 43 200 SEK, men 45 600 SEK (women earn 95% of men’s salary)

Education and qualifications

To work as a subscriber engineer in water and sewage, a technical education in areas such as urban planning, environmental engineering, or mechanical engineering is usually required. Many employers prefer a university or engineering degree, but there are also opportunities for those with relevant vocational college education. Practical experience from the water and sewage industry and knowledge of legislation and environmental requirements are also advantageous.

• Formal degree: University or engineering degree (3–5 years)
• Vocational college education: Specializations in water technology, 2–3 years
• Certifications: Courses in environmental legislation and water project design are highly valued
• Internship: Work experience from water and sewage projects or trainee programs provides a competitive advantage
• Prerequisites: Good knowledge of technology, mathematics, and environmental issues

Common benefits and compensations

Subscriber engineers in water and sewage are often offered competitive benefits such as occupational pension, flexitime, wellness allowance, and remote work options. Additional compensation for on-call duties and overtime is common, especially in the public sector. Training support and professional development are also typical, allowing the role to evolve over time.

Challenges and competition

The competition for positions as a subscriber engineer in water and sewage is relatively balanced, but some regions and larger cities may experience increased pressure due to extensive infrastructure projects. A challenge is that the profession requires both technical skills and the ability to handle complex regulations, which demands continuous education and flexibility. Digitalization and new environmental requirements are rapidly changing the work content, making ongoing professional development essential. The growing demand for sustainable solutions within the water and sewage sector also means that subscriber engineers need to stay updated on the latest technology and current legislation.

Tips for those who want to become a subscriber engineer in water and sewage

To succeed as a subscriber engineer in water and sewage, it is good to be analytical and have an interest in technical systems, as the work requires problem-solving and thorough investigations. Being communicative facilitates collaboration with colleagues and external parties, especially when technical solutions need to be explained to non-specialists. Engagement in environmental issues adds an extra dimension, as sustainability is central within the water and sewage sector. Continuously furthering your education and following industry developments increases career opportunities. Precision is an important trait, as incorrect calculations can have significant consequences for both economy and environment. Finally, initiative is valuable, especially when new technical challenges or changes in legislation require quick adaptations.

Key facts about a subscriber engineer in water and sewage

• Education level: University or vocational college education recommended
• Typical work setting: Full-time in the public sector or consulting firms
• Work environment: Combination of office work and site visits
• Demand: 564 available jobs within the group (2024)
• Special skills: Water technology, environmental legislation, project design

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a subscriber engineer in water and sewage can advance to roles such as project manager for larger water projects, specialist in water purification, or environmental strategist. There are also opportunities to develop into a consultant or take on leadership positions within municipal water companies. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that, due to limited data, there is no precise assessment of the future outlook for the profession, but the general demand for technically educated engineers in water, VVS, and heating remains high. The increasing societal investment in sustainable infrastructure and environmental adaptation suggests that the role will remain in demand in the future.

Common questions about subscriber engineer, water and sewage

• What does a subscriber engineer in water and sewage earn?
  - The average salary is 45 300 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, education, and sector.
• How has salary development looked for subscriber engineers?
  - Salaries have increased by about 9% over the past three years, from 41,500 SEK in 2022 to 45 300 SEK in 2024.
• What education is required to become a subscriber engineer in water and sewage?
  - Usually, a university or vocational college education in engineering, urban planning, or water technology is required.
• Are there gender differences in salaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 95% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What tasks does a subscriber engineer have?
  - Tasks include project design, technical investigations, customer advising, and coordination within water and sewage systems.
• How many job openings are there in the profession?
  - There are 564 available positions within the group of engineers and technicians in water, VVS, and heating.
• What career opportunities are there after some years in the profession?
  - Opportunities include advancing to project leader, specialist, consultant, or manager within the water sector.