Operating electrician

What does a process electrician do? – Tasks and work environment

A process electrician is responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems within industrial facilities. Tasks often include troubleshooting control systems, installing electrical equipment, and monitoring operational safety in production environments. The process electrician works both independently and in teams, regularly collaborating with other technicians and operators to ensure smooth production. The work environment can vary and sometimes be demanding, as work is often performed in factories, workshops, or large industrial areas with high safety requirements.

Salary development over time

The salary for a process electrician has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,800 SEK per month, rising to 37 400 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has reached 39 700 SEK, representing an increase of over 8% in three years. This positive trend can largely be attributed to increased demand for skilled technical expertise in the industry, driven by automation and technological development. Salary growth is also influenced by collective agreements and the overall shortage of experienced electricians. There are also clear gender differences, with women still earning significantly less than their male colleagues.

Process electrician salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 39 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 35,300 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 44,700 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 239 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 40 100 SEK, women 35,500 SEK (women earn 88% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data on regional salary differences is not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a process electrician, a high school diploma focusing on the electrical and energy program is generally required, often supplemented with internships. Many employers also require certifications and experience with industrial control systems. Further education and specialized courses can be important for staying updated in the field and increasing employment prospects.

• High school diploma: Electrical and energy program, 3 years
• Certifications: Examples include ESA or other electrical authorizations
• Internships: Often included as workplace-based training during education
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for high school
• Further education: Courses in automation, control and regulation technology

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for process electricians include occupational pension, wellness allowance, and the possibility of overtime pay. Many employers also offer work clothing, training allowances, and sometimes bonus programs linked to production goals. Occupational safety measures and insurance are common in the industry, as well as access to company healthcare.

Competition and challenges

The profession of process electrician is characterized by technological development and increasing demands for specialization, which can make competition fierce for the most attractive positions. The shortage of experienced electricians, however, means the job market is generally strong, especially for those with broad skills in automation and industrial control technology. At the same time, the job involves physical and mental challenges, such as working odd hours and in noisy environments. The requirement for continuous training and adaptation to new technology is clear, which can be challenging but also rewarding for those seeking advancement.

Tips for aspiring process electricians

To succeed as a process electrician, it is good to be meticulous and solution-oriented, as troubleshooting and repairing advanced systems require both precision and creativity. An interest in technology facilitates learning new control systems and work methods, and good teamwork skills are important since the work is often done in teams. Being able to handle stress helps during urgent operational stoppages, and a willingness to further educate oneself makes it easier to adapt to new technology. Practical skills and a sense of responsibility are also valuable, especially when it comes to following safety routines and taking initiative in unforeseen problems. Being communicative and able to explain technical issues to colleagues contributes to an efficient workflow and enhances career opportunities.

Key facts about process electricians

• Education level: High school diploma (3 years, electrical and energy program)
• Work environment: Industrial setting, often shift work
• Demand: 481 job openings within the profession (May 2024)
• Gender distribution: Clear dominance of men, salary gaps persist
• Special skills: Automation and control technology, troubleshooting

Career paths and future outlook

After a few years of experience, a process electrician can advance to roles such as supervisor, maintenance manager, or automation specialist. Further education in programming control systems or project management is also common. According to the Swedish Employment Agency's forecasts, it is difficult to give an exact assessment of future prospects for process electricians, as the profession is part of a larger occupational group. However, the 481 available jobs indicate continued strong demand, especially for those with broad skills and experience with modern industrial systems. Digitalization and increased automation are likely to strengthen the need for technically skilled process electricians in the coming years.

Frequently asked questions about process electricians

• What is the average salary of a process electrician?
  - The average salary for a process electrician is 39 700 SEK per month.
• What are the gender differences within the profession?
  - Men earn on average 40 100 SEK while women earn 35,500 SEK, which means women earn 88% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a process electrician?
  - A high school diploma from the electrical and energy program, often supplemented with internships and certifications, is standard.
• Are there regional salary differences for process electricians?
  - No detailed statistics on regional salary differences are currently available.
• What are the future prospects for process electricians?
  - The forecasts are uncertain, but the number of job openings indicates continued strong demand.
• What is the highest salary for a process electrician?
  - The highest salary is 44,700 SEK per month and belongs to a male private sector worker with a high school diploma.
• What is the lowest salary for a process electrician?
  - The lowest salary is 35,300 SEK per month and belongs to a woman with a high school education in the profession.