Car tester

What does a Car Tester do? – Tasks and work environment

A Car Tester is responsible for evaluating and analyzing vehicles in terms of safety, functionality, and quality before they reach the market or are used further in development. Tasks include practical test drives on test tracks, thorough inspections of technical systems, and documentation of identified faults and improvement opportunities. Car Testers often work closely with engineers and mechanics, and the work environment varies between outdoor testing in different climates and laboratories with advanced testing equipment. The profession requires high precision, good teamwork skills, and a genuine interest in technology and vehicle safety.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, Car Testers have experienced a noticeable positive salary development. In 2022, the average salary was 38,100 SEK per month, increasing to 43 800 SEK in 2023 – a rise of about 15%. In 2024, the average salary has stabilized at 43 000 SEK, which is a slight decrease of just over 1.8% compared to the previous year. The significant increase between 2022 and 2023 can be linked to increased demand for testing expertise in the automotive industry and a greater focus on safety, while the recent slight decline likely reflects a saturated market and a return to more normal salary growth rates. Salary development is also influenced by education level and experience, with higher qualifications leading to better outcomes.

Car Tester salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 43 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 37,400 SEK/month (woman, high school education, private sector)
• Highest salary: 55,600 SEK/month (man, postgraduate education, public sector)
• Hourly wage: 259 SEK/hour
• Women earn: 47 800 SEK/month (114% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 41 800 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Information on regional differences is not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a Car Tester, a technical education focused on vehicles, mechanics, or electronics is usually required. Many employers also seek experience from workshops, vehicle testing, or related industries. Practical skills, accuracy, and technical interest are central qualities. Further training through certifications or specialized courses can provide advantages in recruitment.

• Formal education: High school education with a technical focus (3 years) or vocational college (2 years)
• Certifications: Courses in vehicle safety and test methodology
• Internship: Internship periods or trainee programs within the automotive industry
• Prerequisites: B driver's license and basic vehicle knowledge
• Tips: Experience with modern vehicle systems and diagnostic tools is highly meritorious

Common benefits and compensations

Car Testers are often offered benefits such as company cars or favorable leasing agreements, wellness stipends, extra vacation days, and opportunities for skills development. In some cases, bonus programs linked to project goals and results are included, along with insurances and pension contributions according to collective agreements.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a Car Tester is relatively moderate but can vary depending on region and the state of the automotive industry. Since the profession requires both technical competence and practical experience, it can be difficult for recent graduates to secure a position without internships or trainee periods. Another challenge is the rapid technological development within vehicles, which demands continuous further training. Additionally, the work can be physically demanding and involve shift work or working in extreme weather conditions, especially during winter testing.

Tips for those who want to become a Car Tester

To succeed as a Car Tester, it is good to combine a strong interest in technology with high precision and analytical skills. Gaining practical experience early through internships or part-time jobs in the automotive industry increases chances of employment. A structured approach is important for handling detailed tests and reporting, while teamwork skills facilitate communication with engineers and development teams. Flexibility and willingness to work outdoors or travel are also valuable qualities, as testing often occurs in varied environments. Staying updated on new technology and participating in continuing education provides competitive advantages. Finally, a solution-oriented mindset is essential for quickly identifying and fixing faults during testing.

Key facts about Car Testers

• Education level: High school or vocational education with a technical focus
• Work environment: Varies between test tracks, workshops, and laboratories
• Typical work arrangement: Full-time, often project-based
• Demand: 191 available jobs within the profession of Safety Inspectors and others
• Special skills: Vehicle technology, test methodology, diagnostic tools

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years as a Car Tester, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as test leader, quality specialist, or development engineer within vehicle safety. Further education or certifications can also open doors to specialist roles in areas like electrification or autonomous driving. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, no specific assessment is made for the profession of Car Tester, but within the profession of Safety Inspectors and others, 191 jobs are reported as available, indicating some demand. However, future prospects will be influenced by technological shifts and automation, which may change skill requirements over time.

Frequently asked questions about Car Testers

• What does a Car Tester earn?
  - A Car Tester has an average salary of 43 000 SEK per month.
• How does the salary difference between women and men look?
  - Women earn on average 47 800 SEK and men 41 800 SEK per month, which means women earn 114% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a Car Tester?
  - Usually, a high school or vocational education in technology, along with B driver's license and practical experience.
• What is the work environment like for Car Testers?
  - The work environment varies with elements of test tracks, workshops, and laboratories, often requiring outdoor work.
• What career opportunities are there for Car Testers?
  - After a few years, one can progress to roles such as test leader, quality specialist, or development engineer.
• How many job openings are there for Car Testers?
  - There are 191 registered job openings within the profession of Safety Inspectors and others.
• What are the lowest and highest salaries for Car Testers?
  - The lowest salary is 37,400 SEK/month and the highest is 55,600 SEK/month.