Fire protection engineer

What does a fire protection engineer do? – Tasks and work environment

A fire protection engineer is responsible for preventing and reducing the risk of fires in various environments, such as buildings, industries, and public facilities. Tasks include analyzing and assessing fire safety in new constructions, preparing fire protection plans, and conducting risk analyses. The engineer often acts as an advisor to property owners, architects, construction companies, and authorities, participating in planning, inspections, and follow-up. The work is primarily office-based but also includes site visits, training sessions, and collaboration with fire services and other specialists.

Salary development over time

The salary development for fire protection engineers has shown some variation over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 41,600 SEK per month, which then decreased slightly to 39,000 SEK in 2023. Between 2023 and 2024, the salary has recovered and reached a level of 40 500 kr, representing an increase of approximately 3.8% from the previous year. This variation may be due to changes in demand, retirements, and industry-specific investments in skills development. Overall, the profession has a stable salary trend, although market conditions and economic cycles influence year by year. It is uncommon for women to earn more than men in this profession, which may indicate a high demand for the skills women contribute to the field.

Fire protection engineer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 40 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 36,100 SEK/month (men), 39,000 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 46,300 SEK/month (men), 43,400 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 243 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 105% of what men do (men: 40 000 SEK, women: 41 900 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data missing

Education and qualifications

To work as a fire protection engineer, a university degree in fire technology or equivalent technical field is required, usually at least three years. The education combines theoretical knowledge of fire processes and building technology with practical elements such as risk analysis and planning. Many employers also seek experience from internships or trainee programs, as well as specific certifications within fire safety.

• Formal qualification: Fire engineering degree (3 years, university)
• Certifications: Examples include diploma courses in fire safety, certified expert
• Internship: Often mandatory within the education
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility plus specific requirements in mathematics and physics
• Tips for choosing: Combine technical education with courses in work environment and leadership

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to the base salary, benefits such as wellness allowances, extra vacation days, and flexible working hours are often offered. Some employers also provide professional development, insurance solutions, and occupational pension schemes, contributing to a secure and attractive employment.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as a fire protection engineer varies depending on region and employer, but the profession is considered relatively specialized with stable demand. A challenge is to stay updated on changing building codes, legal requirements, and new technology in fire safety. The work can sometimes be complex, requiring collaboration with many stakeholders and balancing safety requirements with practical and economic considerations. Working under time pressure and taking responsibility for safety-critical decisions are also part of daily life. The number of available jobs within the profession is good, with 191 advertised positions, but since the profession is part of a broader category, competition can vary.

Tips for aspiring fire protection engineers

To succeed as a fire protection engineer, it is beneficial to combine technical understanding with analytical skills and good communication. Actively seeking internships during studies helps gain practical experience and build networks. A meticulous and organized work style facilitates investigations and risk analyses, while the ability to collaborate and explain technical solutions pedagogically makes it easier to get support for your proposals. Curiosity and staying updated on new regulations and technologies are advantageous. Finally, patience and perseverance are important, as many projects last long and require thorough documentation and follow-up.

Key facts about fire protection engineers

• Education level: University degree (fire technology, at least 3 years)
• Work environment: Office-based with site visits
• Typical employment: Permanent position in private or public sector
• Available jobs: 191 within the profession in Sweden
• Demand: Stable but varies regionally

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a fire protection engineer can advance to roles such as project manager, fire safety expert, or chief engineer. Some choose to specialize in areas like industrial fire safety, risk management, or education. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that it is difficult to give an exact outlook, as the profession belongs to a broader occupational category and data is limited. Nonetheless, the number of available positions suggests continued demand, especially in larger cities and expanding regions. Skills in digital tools and sustainable building practices can provide additional career opportunities.

Common questions about fire protection engineers

• What does a fire protection engineer earn?
  - A fire protection engineer has an average salary of 40 500 kr per month, with variations depending on experience and employer.
• How do gender differences look within the profession?
  - Women earn on average 41 900 kr and men 40 000 kr, which means women earn 105% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a fire protection engineer?
  - A university degree in fire technology, usually three years, along with sometimes additional certifications and internships.
• How is the job market for fire protection engineers?
  - There are 191 available jobs within the profession, and demand is considered stable although exact forecasts are lacking.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries in the profession?
  - Highest salary is 46,300 SEK (men) and 43,400 SEK (women), lowest salary is 36,100 SEK (men) and 39,000 SEK (women).
• What tasks does a fire protection engineer perform?
  - Tasks include risk analyses, preparing fire safety plans, advising, and site visits.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Analytical ability, accuracy, and good communication skills are central qualities in the profession.