Inspection engineer, electric power

What does an inspection engineer in electrical power do? – Tasks and work environment

An inspection engineer in electrical power is responsible for inspecting and ensuring that electrical installations, systems, and equipment meet current safety requirements, standards, and regulations. The work includes inspecting both new and existing electrical systems, often within industry, power plants, electrical grids, or larger properties. The role involves analyzing drawings, conducting risk assessments, documenting inspection results, and reporting any deficiencies or improvement measures to clients. The work environment can vary between offices, industrial settings, and outdoor fieldwork, requiring both technical skills and precision.

Salary development over time

The salary for inspection engineers in electrical power has shown steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,600 SEK per month, while both 2023 and 2024 show an average salary of 48 800 SEK per month. This represents a salary increase of approximately 4.7% between 2022 and 2023, after which the salary has plateaued and remained unchanged. The strong demand for expertise in electrical power, combined with increased safety and sustainability requirements in the energy sector, has likely contributed to the positive salary development. The shortage of experienced engineers and technicians in the field keeps salaries high, but the recent stabilization suggests that the market is currently balanced.

Inspection Engineer, electrical power salary – full overview

• Average salary: 48 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,900 SEK/month (male, public sector, pre-university education); 41,600 SEK/month (female)
• Highest salary: 66,400 SEK/month (male, private sector, doctoral degree); 49,300 SEK/month (female)
• Hourly wage: 293 SEK
• Gender differences: Men earn 49 200 SEK, women 46 700 SEK (women earn 95% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Regional differences exist, with metropolitan areas and regions with strong industrial presence often offering higher salaries.

Education and qualifications

To work as an inspection engineer in electrical power, a university or master's degree in electrical engineering or energy technology is generally required. Many employers also seek specific certifications and practical experience from the industry. The educational path is often technically oriented with elements of both theoretical and practical components, often supplemented with further training or specialist courses in electrical safety and inspection.

• Formal education: University or master's degree in electrical engineering (3–5 years)
• Certifications: Examples include certificates for inspection engineers or authorization as an electrical installer
• Practical experience: Work experience through internships or trainee programs is highly meritorious
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies and mathematics and physics at high school level
• Further education: Courses in electrical safety, risk management, and standards, often as continuing education

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to base salary, benefits such as pension schemes, wellness contributions, extra vacation days, and opportunities for skills development are often offered. Company cars or travel allowances are common for those working in the field, especially during inspections of facilities at different locations. Some employers also offer bonuses or performance-based supplements.

Competition and challenges

The job market for inspection engineers in electrical power is characterized by high demand and a certain shortage of experienced candidates. At the same time, the role is challenging as it requires detailed knowledge of regulations, technology, and safety standards. Rapid technological development means continuous training is necessary to stay updated. The recruitment situation is also affected by many experienced engineers leaving the profession, making it difficult for employers to fill vacancies. However, over the next five years, demand is expected to remain unchanged according to the Employment Service.

Tips for those who want to become an inspection engineer in electrical power

To succeed as an inspection engineer in electrical power, it’s good to combine technical curiosity with analytical skills and good communication abilities. Precision is crucial for identifying deficiencies and ensuring installations meet all requirements. Initiative helps when new technical solutions or challenges arise, while teamwork skills are important as the role often involves contact with multiple stakeholders. A structured approach and effective documentation skills make it easier to deliver clear reports and recommendations. Staying updated on changes in laws and standards is also a key to success.

Key facts about Inspection Engineer, electrical power

• Educational level: University or master's degree
• Work environment: Varies between office, industry, and fieldwork
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide
• Typical employment: Permanent employment, sometimes consulting assignments
• Special skills: Electrical safety, regulations, and technical inspection

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, an inspection engineer in electrical power can advance to roles such as technical specialist, project manager, or head of inspection operations. Some choose to deepen their expertise in specific areas such as high-voltage systems, energy efficiency, or quality management. Forecasts from the Employment Service show that opportunities within engineering and technical professions are large nationwide and expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. The ongoing electrification of society and increased safety requirements for power grids create long-term demand for qualified inspection engineers. The latest survey indicated 564 job openings, reflecting a strong job market.

Common questions about Inspection Engineer, electrical power

• What does an Inspection Engineer in electrical power earn?
  - The average salary is 48 800 SEK per month, but it varies based on experience, education, and sector.
• How does one become an inspection engineer in electrical power?
  - The typical route is a university or master's degree in electrical engineering, often combined with internships and certification.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 95% of men's salaries in the profession.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The job market is good with great opportunities and unchanged demand over the next five years.
• In what work environments does an inspection engineer in electrical power work?
  - The work environment varies between offices, industry, and outdoor fieldwork.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for the profession?
  - The highest salary is 66,400 SEK and the lowest is 38,900 SEK, depending on education, sector, and experience.
• What benefits are common?
  - Pension schemes, wellness contributions, extra vacation days, and sometimes company cars or bonuses.