Automation technician, electronics

What does an automation technician within electronics do? – Tasks and work environment

An automation technician specializing in electronics works with installing, programming, troubleshooting, and maintaining automated systems in industrial environments. Tasks often include commissioning and optimizing control systems, servicing machines and robots, and ensuring electronics and automation work efficiently together. The profession involves regular contact with both hardware and software, using technical drawings and programming tools daily. The work environment varies from factory halls and industrial plants to offices, and it is common to work both independently and in teams with other technicians and engineers.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for automation technicians within electronics has shown stable and positive growth. In 2022, the average salary was 46,600 SEK per month, which increased to 48 800 SEK in 2023. This level has remained unchanged in 2024. The total salary increase from 2022 to 2024 amounts to approximately 4.7%, reflecting continued demand for the profession. The salary growth can be linked to increased technical complexity in industry, a growing need for automation, and high competition for qualified labor. However, the growth has plateaued in the last year, indicating that the market has found a new equilibrium level for this skill set.

Automation technician within electronics salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 48 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,900 SEK/month (men), 41,600 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 66,400 SEK/month (men, private sector, research education), 49,300 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 293 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 49 200 SEK, women 46 700 SEK (women earn 95% of men's salary)

Education and qualifications

To work as an automation technician within electronics, a technical education focusing on automation, electronics, or mechatronics is usually required. The educational path often involves completing a technical or electrical program at upper secondary school, followed by vocational university or higher education. Practical experience, certifications, and specialized courses in control systems and programming are advantageous and sometimes essential for employment in the field.

• Vocational university diploma: 2–3 years in automation, electronics, or mechatronics
• Technical or electrical program at upper secondary school: Basic eligibility
• Certifications: Examples include Siemens PLC, ABB RobotStudio, or equivalent
• Internship: Often a mandatory part of the education
• Prerequisites: Good knowledge of mathematics, logic, and basic programming

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for automation technicians within electronics include company pension schemes, wellness allowances, and opportunities for skills development. Many employers also offer flexitime, extra vacation days, and bonus programs linked to project goals or productivity. Company cars and paid further training are also available in some cases.

Competition and challenges

The profession as an automation technician within electronics is characterized by high demand, which provides good employment opportunities but also high requirements from employers. The recruitment situation is marked by a shortage of experienced technicians, while many leave the profession for other roles within industry. Challenges mainly involve keeping up with rapid technological developments, adapting to new systems and regulations, and working under time pressure during outages. The ability to solve problems quickly and collaborate effectively with other professionals is crucial for success.

Tips for those who want to become an automation technician within electronics

To succeed as an automation technician within electronics, it is beneficial to be both analytical and curious about technical solutions. A strong interest in technology and problem-solving makes it easier to understand complex systems and quickly identify faults. Precision is important, as small mistakes can have significant consequences in automated processes, so developing attention to detail is an advantage. Flexibility and teamwork skills are appreciated by employers, as collaborations with other technicians and engineers are common. Staying updated on new control systems and programming languages provides a competitive edge, especially as technology evolves rapidly. Taking initiative for further education and certifications demonstrates drive and engagement. Finally, good communication skills are essential, as clear reporting and dialogue with colleagues and clients are common in daily work.

Key facts about automation technicians within electronics

• Education level: Vocational college or university
• Work environment: Industry, workshop, and office
• Demand: Very high, 564 job openings in 2024
• Typical working hours: Full-time, often daytime but shifts also occur
• Special skills: Control systems, programming, troubleshooting

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, automation technicians within electronics can advance to roles such as project manager, system responsible, or specialists in control systems and robotics. Many choose to further their education to become engineers or work as technical consultants in industrial automation. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, job opportunities are very good, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, despite many leaving the profession for other technical roles. Continued digitalization and automation in industry make the profession attractive, especially for those combining technical skills with project management abilities.

Frequently asked questions about automation technicians within electronics

• What does an automation technician within electronics earn?
  - The average salary is 48 800 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, sector, and education level.
• What education is required to become an automation technician within electronics?
  - A vocational university diploma or higher education in automation, electronics, or mechatronics is recommended.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn on average 95% of what men do within the profession.
• What is the job market like for automation technicians within electronics?
  - Opportunities for employment are very good, with 564 job openings during 2024.
• What development opportunities are available within the profession?
  - After a few years, one can advance to project manager, system responsible, or further education to become an engineer.
• What is the work environment like for an automation technician within electronics?
  - The work environment varies from industrial environments to offices, often working in teams but also independently.
• What are the lowest and highest salaries within the profession?
  - The lowest salary is 38,900 SEK/month (men, public sector, pre-secondary education), the highest is 66,400 SEK/month (men, private sector, research education).