Fire technician

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

A fire protection technician works to prevent, investigate, and analyze fires as well as fire safety in various environments. The work often includes fire risk assessments in buildings, investigations after fires, development of fire safety documentation, and advising companies, organizations, and authorities. Fire protection technicians can also participate in training, develop routines for fire safety, and be involved in projects related to building technical fire protection. The work environment varies between office work, site visits at construction sites, and field operations where risks may be present.

Salary development over time

Salaries for fire protection technicians have shown some fluctuations in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 41,600 SEK per month, then decreased slightly to 39,000 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the salary has recovered and is now at 40 500 SEK per month. This represents a total change of approximately -2.6% from 2022 to 2024, but an increase of 3.8% from 2023 to 2024. Variations can be explained by changes in demand for specialist skills, economic conditions, and different employers' salary policies. The industry is also influenced by investments in the construction sector and increasing requirements for fire safety, which may lead to upward salary pressure as more employers seek qualified fire protection technicians.

Fire protection technician 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 (average): 243 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 41 900 SEK (105% of men's salary of 40 000 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data on regional differences are not available for this profession

Education and qualifications

To work as a fire protection technician, a relevant university degree in fire engineering, fire protection engineering, or similar technical field is usually required. The profession demands both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, often supplemented with courses in fire safety and industry experience. Internships or trainee positions are common and can provide valuable insight into the daily work.

• Formal degree: Fire engineering degree (3 years) or a civil engineering degree with a focus on fire protection
• Certifications: Courses in fire safety, risk management, and construction
• Internship: Often mandatory internship or trainee position during studies
• Prerequisites: Science or technical high school education is recommended
• Tips for choosing: Select a program closely connected to practical work and include internships

Common benefits and compensations

Fire protection technicians are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, extra vacation days, flexible working hours, and remote work opportunities. Further training and skills development are common, along with pension contributions and insurance through the employer. Company cars and mobile phones may also be provided depending on the employer and position.

Competition and challenges

The profession of fire protection technician is characterized by competition for the most qualified positions, especially in larger cities and within consultancy firms. A challenge is to stay updated on constantly changing building regulations and technical standards for fire safety. Industry development is affected by economic cycles and investments in construction and real estate, which can lead to periods of high or low demand. The limited number of training places helps keep competition for jobs relatively stable. For those wishing to specialize further, additional education and certification are often necessary.

Tips for aspiring fire protection technicians

To succeed as a fire protection technician, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with accuracy and a technical interest. A strong interest in safety and risk assessment facilitates work in identifying and preventing fire risks. Communication skills are important when explaining complex technical solutions to clients or colleagues without a technical background. Flexibility and problem-solving abilities are crucial in situations requiring quick decisions. Being proactive and self-reliant helps when facing new challenges, while teamwork skills are essential for project work and cross-functional tasks. Continuously developing your skills and keeping up with industry news are also key factors for career advancement in this field.

Key facts about Fire Protection Technicians

• Education level: Fire engineering or technical university degree (at least 3 years)
• Work environment: Office, construction sites, and fieldwork
• Work type: Consultant, authority, or private sector
• Demand: 191 job openings in the profession according to latest data
• Special skills: Fire safety design and risk assessment

Career paths and future prospects

After some years in the profession, a fire protection technician can develop into specialist roles within fire safety design, supervisory functions, or consulting. There are also opportunities to work in research and development or move into management positions within larger companies and authorities. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, it is difficult to precisely assess the future outlook for fire protection technicians, as the profession is part of a broader occupational group, but the number of available positions indicates continued demand. Skills in digital tools and sustainable building practices can provide competitive advantages in the job market.

Frequently asked questions about Fire Protection Technicians

• What is the average salary of a fire protection technician?
  - The average salary for a fire protection technician is 40 500 SEK per month.
• How does the salary differ between men and women in the profession?
  - Women earn 41 900 SEK, which is 105% of men's salary of 40 000 SEK.
• What education is required to become a fire protection technician?
  - A fire engineering degree (3 years) or a civil engineering degree with a focus on fire protection is recommended.
• Are there regional differences in salary?
  - Specific regional salary differences are not available.
• What are the future prospects for fire protection technicians?
  - The outlook is uncertain, but there are many available positions within the profession.
• What is the highest salary for a fire protection technician?
  - The highest salary is 46,300 SEK per month and belongs to a man with a doctoral degree.
• What benefits are usually offered?
  - Common benefits include wellness allowances, extra vacation days, flexible working hours, and opportunities for professional development.