Car inspection engineer

What does a vehicle inspection engineer do? – Tasks and work environment

A vehicle inspection engineer is responsible for ensuring that vehicles meet safety and environmental requirements according to Swedish legislation. Tasks include inspection, testing, and assessment of cars, trucks, and sometimes specialized vehicles. Daily work often takes place at inspection stations where technical checks are conducted systematically. The work environment is characterized by precision and a high safety mindset, as it is crucial to detect both visible and hidden faults on vehicles. The work is often team-based, but independent responsibility and decision-making are central parts of the profession.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salaries for vehicle inspection engineers have shown a clear upward trend. In 2022, the average salary was 38,100 SEK per month, which increased to 43 800 SEK in 2023. The latest figure for 2024 shows a slightly lower average salary of 43 000 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 12.9% from 2022 to 2024, but a slight decrease of 1.8% in the past year. The initial salary increase can be linked to increased demand for qualified personnel in vehicle control, as well as the industry's need to attract technically skilled employees. The small decline last year may be due to market stabilization and inflation adjustments affecting salary development. Generally, the profession has a stable salary structure with good opportunities for individual salary growth depending on experience, specialization, and employer.

Vehicle inspection engineer salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 43 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 37,400 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 55,600 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 259 SEK
• Men: 41 800 SEK
• Women: 47 800 SEK
• Women earn: 114% of what men do
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on location and employer, but specific figures are lacking.

Education and qualifications

To work as a vehicle inspection engineer, a technical education focusing on vehicles or mechanics is usually required. It is also necessary to complete specific certification courses and sometimes internships to meet formal requirements. Employers value both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, and sometimes additional training or internal trainee programs are offered.

• Formal education: High school education (3 years) with a technical focus or equivalent
• Certification: Mandatory courses/certifications for vehicle technical inspection
• Internship: Internship period or trainee program at inspection companies
• Prerequisites: Good knowledge of vehicle mechanics and regulations
• Tips for choosing: Technical curiosity and accuracy facilitate training

Common benefits and compensations

Vehicle inspection engineers are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, extra vacation days, and sometimes bonuses based on performance or efficiency. Many employers also offer skill development, further training, and sometimes flexible working hours. Occupational pensions and insurance are typically included in employment terms.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as a vehicle inspection engineer varies depending on region and employer. In larger cities and expanding areas, competition may be higher, especially for the most experienced and certified engineers. The shortage of trained personnel has made the job market relatively stable. Challenges in the profession include requirements for continuous training to keep up with technological developments, as well as stress that can arise from high pace and responsibility for safety-critical decisions. Additionally, the profession demands excellent communication skills, as engineers often meet customers and must explain technical deficiencies in an understandable way.

Tips for those who want to become a vehicle inspection engineer

To succeed as a vehicle inspection engineer, it is good to have an analytical mindset and precision, as the work requires high accuracy when inspecting vehicles. Good communication skills are also important, as tasks often involve contact with colleagues and customers. Being solution-oriented makes it easier to handle unexpected technical problems quickly and efficiently. A willingness to continuously learn is crucial, as vehicle technology develops rapidly and regulations change. The ability to work independently, but also collaborate in teams, is also valuable. Initiative and a sense of responsibility are appreciated by employers, especially since this can involve making decisions that affect traffic safety. Finally, being service-minded and able to explain technical issues clearly to customers is advantageous.

Key facts about Vehicle Inspection Engineer

• Education level: High school education (3 years) with a technical focus
• Work environment: Inspection stations, often teamwork but with individual responsibility
• Demand: 191 job openings within the profession (2024)
• Gender salary gap: Women earn 114% of men's salaries
• Occupational group: Safety inspectors and others

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a vehicle inspection engineer, there are opportunities to advance to specialist roles, such as technical expert, trainer in vehicle inspection, or even manager of an inspection station. Some choose to work with quality development or internal audits within larger inspection companies. According to the Employment Service, no separate forecast exists specifically for vehicle inspection engineers, but within the occupational group safety inspectors, demand remains stable with a total of 191 job openings registered in 2024. The industry is influenced by technological developments in vehicle fleets and future requirements for environmental and safety standards, indicating continued need for qualified personnel.

Frequently asked questions about Vehicle Inspection Engineer

• What does a vehicle inspection engineer earn?
  - The average salary is 43 000 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 259 SEK.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn an average of 47 800 SEK, which is 114% of men's average salary of 41 800 SEK.
• What education is required to become a vehicle inspection engineer?
  - High school education with a technical focus and specific certification courses are required.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a vehicle inspection engineer?
  - The lowest salary is 37,400 SEK and the highest is 55,600 SEK.
• What is the job market like?
  - There are 191 job openings within the safety inspectors profession.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Wellness allowances, extra vacation days, occupational pension, and further training are common.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Salaries can vary depending on location and employer, but specific figures are lacking.