Fire protection technician

What does a fire protection technician do? – tasks and work environment

A fire protection technician works to prevent and minimize fire risks in various types of properties and facilities. Tasks often include installation, operation, and maintenance of fire protection systems such as sprinklers, fire alarms, and smoke vents. Regular inspections of fire safety equipment, as well as training personnel and tenants in fire safety, are common. The work takes place both on-site at customer locations and in offices, combining independent work with teamwork. The environment can range from technically advanced industrial facilities to public buildings and residences, requiring flexibility and adaptability.

Salary development over time

The salary for fire protection technicians has shown some variation over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 41,600 SEK per month, which decreased slightly to 39,000 SEK in 2023. Since then, the salary has increased again to 40 500 SEK in 2024, representing an increase of approximately 3.8% compared to the previous year. This development can be explained by changes in demand for skills, increased focus on safety issues, and possible changes in education levels and experience among professionals. Fluctuations between years suggest that the market is influenced by economic cycles and investments in the real estate and industrial sectors, where fire protection technicians are often active.

Fire protection technician salary – comprehensive overview

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

Education and qualifications

To work as a fire protection technician, a high school diploma with a technical or electrical focus is usually required, along with further training in fire protection. Many employers also require certifications or specialized courses, and practical experience is often advantageous. The profession suits individuals who are meticulous, have a technical interest, and good teamwork skills.

• High school education: Electrical and energy program or technical program, 3 years
• Post-secondary courses: Fire safety-related training and certifications
• Certifications: For example, certificates from the Swedish Fire Protection Association
• Internship: Common via trainee programs or apprenticeship positions
• Prerequisites: B driving license and basic technical understanding

Common benefits and compensations

Fire protection technicians are often offered benefits such as company cars, wellness allowances, extra vacation days, and opportunities for professional development through internal and external training. Other common compensations include overtime pay for on-call work, allowances for work clothing, and in some cases bonuses linked to projects or assignments. Employers also invest in good insurance and pension schemes to attract and retain qualified staff.

Competition and challenges

The competition within the profession of fire protection technicians varies depending on region and labor market needs. Since the profession is part of a broader group including fire engineers and building inspectors, competition for certain positions can be fiercer in metropolitan areas where demand is high. A challenge is to stay updated on constantly changing regulations and technical solutions within fire safety. Additionally, flexibility to handle emergency responses and work under pressure is often required. Despite this, there are good job opportunities, with 191 available positions within the profession according to current statistics.

Tips for those wanting to become a fire protection technician

To succeed as a fire protection technician, it is beneficial to have a strong sense of accuracy and responsibility, as the tasks often involve safety and preventive work. A genuine technical interest helps in understanding and managing various fire protection systems, so it is recommended to seek internships during education to strengthen your knowledge. Good teamwork skills are essential since the work is often performed in teams and in close contact with customers, while the ability to work independently is important for making decisions on-site. Being flexible and adaptable aids in working in varied environments and situations. Finally, being communicative and pedagogical is an advantage, especially when training staff or informing clients about fire safety rules and procedures.

Key facts about fire protection technicians

• Educational level: High school or post-secondary education with a technical focus
• Typical work form: Fieldwork and customer visits combined with office work
• Demand: 191 job openings within the profession
• Gender salary split: Women earn 105% of what men do
• Special skills: Certifications within fire safety are in demand

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a fire protection technician can advance to roles such as project manager, supervisor, or specialized consultant in fire safety. With additional training and experience, there is potential to work on larger and more complex projects or to move into roles like fire safety coordinator or technical director. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service for groups such as fire engineers and building inspectors do not provide exact assessments for fire protection technicians, but the large number of available jobs indicates that demand remains stable. The profession is influenced by investments in construction and real estate, as well as increased safety requirements, which bodes well for future opportunities for those seeking growth in the field.

Frequently asked questions about fire protection technicians

• What does a fire protection technician earn?
  - A fire protection technician has an average salary of 40 500 SEK per month.
• Are there differences in salary between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 41 900 SEK, which corresponds to 105% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a fire protection technician?
  - High school education with a technical focus and further training in fire safety are recommended.
• What does the job market look like?
  - There are 191 job openings within the profession, indicating strong demand.
• What are the typical tasks of a fire protection technician?
  - Installation, service, and inspection of fire protection systems, as well as training and advising on fire safety.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Company cars, wellness allowances, professional development, and comprehensive insurance are common benefits.
• What are the career opportunities?
  - Opportunities exist to advance to project manager, supervisor, or technical director with experience and further training.