Application engineer, university engineer

What does an application engineer in electrical engineering do? – Tasks and work environment

An application engineer in electrical engineering works closely with customers and development teams to adapt technical solutions to specific needs within industries such as manufacturing, energy, or IT. The role often involves analyzing customer technical requirements, implementing and optimizing applications, as well as providing technical support and training. The work environment is usually office-based but may also involve travel to clients or production facilities, where collaboration with multiple departments is central. Application engineers often handle advanced technical systems and therefore need both deep technical understanding and good communication skills.

Salary development over time

The salary level for application engineers with a university engineering degree has shown a stable and positive development in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,600 SEK per month, while in 2023 and 2024 it amounted to 48 800 SEK. This represents an increase of approximately 4.7% from 2022 to 2023, after which the salary level stabilized. This trend reflects a continued strong demand for technical competence and increased competition for experienced engineers, especially within the electrical engineering sector. Higher salaries can also be explained by employers wanting to retain qualified staff and attract new talent in an industry where recruitment difficulties are common. The trend indicates that the profession is attractive, both in terms of salary and development opportunities.

Application Engineer, university engineering degree salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 48 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,900 SEK/month (male, public sector, pre-university education)
• Highest salary: 66,400 SEK/month (male, private sector, doctoral degree)
• Lowest salary women: 41,600 SEK/month
• Highest salary women: 49,300 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 293 SEK
• Gender gap: Women earn 95% of what men do
• Regional differences: No specific data available

Education and qualifications

To work as an application engineer in electrical engineering, a university engineering degree in electrical engineering or a similar technical field is usually required. Many employers also value practical experience, especially from industries where technical applications and customer-specific solutions are central. Certifications, courses, and self-study within specialized software or systems can be advantageous during employment.

• Degree: University engineering degree in electrical engineering (3 years)
• Certifications: Relevant courses in automation, programming, or project management
• Internship: Internship or trainee programs during studies are advantageous
• Prerequisites: Science-oriented program or technical high school
• Self-study: Online courses in new technical systems and software are recommended

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for application engineers in electrical engineering include pension schemes, wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and opportunities for remote work. Other benefits may include bonus programs, professional development through courses and conferences, and access to corporate health services. In some cases, company cars or travel allowances are offered, especially if the job involves many customer visits.

Competition and challenges

Application engineers face a job market where competition for positions is relatively low, but employers also struggle to find the right competence. The role requires continuous updating of technical knowledge and adaptation to new systems and customer needs, which can be challenging for those not interested in technology. Since the role often involves close customer contact, high demands are placed on communication and problem-solving skills. An additional challenge is the rapid technological development within electrical engineering and automation, which causes knowledge requirements to change over time.

Tips for those wanting to become an application engineer in electrical engineering

To succeed as an application engineer in electrical engineering, it is good to be curious and have a strong desire to learn new technologies. Developing analytical skills makes it easier to quickly understand customer needs and find solution-oriented ways forward. Good teamwork skills are essential, as the work often takes place in teams and in close dialogue with customers or suppliers. A communicative and pedagogical approach facilitates training and user support. It is also valuable to be flexible and open to change, as tasks may vary depending on projects and technology. Taking initiative and continuously following developments in the electrical engineering industry provides an advantage in career and competence. Finally, patience and perseverance are important – complex problems may take time to solve and often require multiple attempts before finding the right solution.

Key facts about Application Engineer, university engineering degree

• Education level: University engineering degree (3 years)
• Work environment: Office-based with travel and customer visits
• Demand: Large opportunities for nationwide employment
• Work form: Often project-based and cross-functional
• Gender distribution: Salary gap between women and men, women earn 95% of men's salaries

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an application engineer in electrical engineering, it is common to advance to roles such as project manager, technical specialist, or product manager. Some choose to move into consulting or business development within technology companies. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicate that demand for engineers and technicians in electrical engineering is expected to remain unchanged over five years, but opportunities for employment are still considered large. The industry is characterized by recruitment difficulties, which means that qualified engineers have good prospects for finding attractive jobs. With ongoing skills development and experience, the chances of reaching leadership positions and specialized roles increase.

Frequently asked questions about Application Engineer, university engineering degree

• What does an Application Engineer, university engineering degree earn?
  - The average salary is 48 800 SEK/month, but there are variations depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What education is required to become an application engineer in electrical engineering?
  - A university engineering degree in electrical engineering or a related technical field is most common.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 95% of what men do in the profession.
• What does the job market look like for application engineers?
  - Opportunities for employment are considered large nationwide, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What benefits are common in the profession?
  - Pension schemes, wellness allowances, flexible working hours, professional development, and sometimes bonus programs are common benefits.
• Can you work internationally as an application engineer?
  - Yes, many companies offer opportunities for international work and participation in global projects.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Common paths include project management, technical specialist, product manager, or consulting roles.