Master of Science in Engineering, telecommunications

What does a civil engineer in telecommunications do? – Tasks and work environment

Civil engineers in telecommunications work with the development, construction, and maintenance of advanced communication systems. Tasks often include designing and operating networks, optimizing data traffic, security solutions, and integrating new technologies such as 5G and IoT. Common workplaces include larger tech companies, consulting firms, and operators, where both office work and fieldwork occur. Projects can be national or international, requiring high technical competence and collaboration in cross-functional teams.

Salary development over time

The salary for civil engineers in telecommunications has shown steady and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 51,800 SEK, followed by an increase to 53 800 SEK in 2023, and further up to 55 100 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to a total increase of approximately 6.4% over the period, linked to continued high demand for technical expertise in the telecom sector. Salaries are also influenced by technological advances and the need for specialized labor, especially in areas like 5G and cybersecurity. The industry is characterized by continuous skill shifts, which drives up salaries for those staying updated with the latest technology. Regional variations may occur depending on employers and project scope, but the overall trend is clearly upward.

Master's degree in engineering, telecommunications – complete overview

• Average salary: 55 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 46,300 SEK/month (female, private sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 64,700 SEK/month (male, private sector, doctoral degree)
• Hourly wage: 331 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 55 600 SEK, women 52 500 SEK (94% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on location and employer

Education and qualifications

To work as a master’s degree holder in telecommunications, a solid technical education is required, usually through a master’s program in electrical engineering or computer engineering with a focus on telecommunications. In addition to formal degrees, specialized courses and certifications in networks, programming, and security are often demanded. Practical experience through projects, internships, or trainee programs is advantageous, and the industry values documented knowledge of modern technologies. Self-study and continuous professional development are crucial to stay current in a rapidly changing sector.

• Master’s degree: 5 years, technical university or college
• Specialized courses: Telecommunications, networks, cybersecurity
• Internships/Trainee programs: Recommended for industry experience
• Certifications: e.g., Cisco, Juniper, or similar
• Prerequisites: Advanced mathematics and physics
• Self-study/online learning: Important for staying updated with new technologies

Common benefits and compensations

Telecommunications engineers often receive competitive benefits beyond base salary. Common compensations include occupational pension, wellness allowance, bonuses, flexible working hours, and training opportunities. Opportunities for skill development, training grants, and sometimes overtime pay and additional vacation days are also available, especially with larger employers in the tech sector.

Competition and challenges

The market for telecommunications engineers is characterized by high demand and intense competition for the most attractive positions. The shortage of experienced specialists leads to recruitment difficulties for employers, while many leave the profession for new challenges or leadership roles. Rapid technological development requires ongoing further education and adaptability. The profession’s breadth demands both deep technical skills and good teamwork, especially in projects involving multiple disciplines. Regional differences exist, but job opportunities are generally abundant across the country.

Tips for those aspiring to become a telecommunications engineer

To succeed as a telecommunications engineer, it’s beneficial to combine analytical skills with a genuine interest in technological development. Curiosity and a desire to learn new things are advantages, especially since technologies evolve quickly. Precision and problem-solving skills aid in troubleshooting and system development, while good teamwork skills are essential in cross-functional projects. Early practical experience through summer jobs or internships and building a network within the industry can provide insight into different work areas. Staying updated through self-study and certifications enhances competitiveness, and strong communication skills facilitate dialogue with colleagues and clients.

Key facts about a telecommunications master’s engineer

• Education level: Master’s degree (5 years)
• Work environment: Tech companies, operators, consulting firms
• Demand: Large opportunities for employment nationally
• Typical work form: Project-based and team-oriented
• Special skills: Telecom, networks, security, programming

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, many telecommunications engineers develop into specialists, project managers, or technical managers. The Employment Service’s forecasts show that job opportunities remain strong and demand is expected to stay unchanged over five years. The recruitment situation is characterized by difficulty finding the right competence, which increases the value of experienced engineers. Currently, there are 564 job openings in the field, indicating a healthy job market. Specializations in areas like 5G, IoT, or cybersecurity can provide advantages and open pathways to international projects or leadership roles.

Frequently asked questions about telecommunications master’s engineers

• What is the salary of a telecommunications master’s engineer?
  - The average salary is 55 100 SEK per month, ranging between 46,300 SEK and 64,700 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Men earn on average 55 600 SEK, women 52 500 SEK, which means women earn approximately 94% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a telecommunications master’s engineer?
  - A master’s degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or telecommunications, typically 5 years at a technical university or college.
• Are there good future prospects?
  - Yes, the Employment Service assesses job opportunities as high, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• Which employers hire telecommunications master’s engineers?
  - Larger tech companies, telecom operators, consulting firms, and sometimes public sector organizations.
• What benefits are common?
  - Occupational pension, wellness allowance, bonuses, flexible working hours, and training opportunities are common.
• How does education level affect salary?
  - Higher education, such as doctoral studies, can significantly increase salary; the highest reported salary is 64,700 SEK for a man with a doctoral degree.