Operations engineer, construction

What does a building operations engineer do? – Tasks and work environment

A building operations engineer is responsible for leading, monitoring, and optimizing the operation of technical systems and facilities in construction projects. The tasks often include planning for operation and maintenance, troubleshooting technical problems, and ensuring that building installations function efficiently and energy-efficiently. The role involves close collaboration with other technicians, project managers, and contractors, especially during new construction or major renovations. The work environment varies between office work, meetings at construction sites, and inspection of technical installations, requiring both technical knowledge and good communication skills.

Salary development over time

The salary for a building operations engineer has shown a steady increase over recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 45,900 SEK per month, rising to 49 900 SEK in 2023 and reaching 50 200 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to an increase of just over 9% over three years. The salary increase can partly be explained by the increased demand for technical expertise in the construction sector and a greater focus on energy efficiency and digitization in the industry. The market has also been influenced by inflation and higher requirements for certifications, which have contributed to pushing up the salary levels for qualified building operations engineers. The trend indicates that the profession will continue to be attractive financially, especially for those with specialized knowledge or experience from larger projects.

Building operations engineer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 50 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 41,400 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 57,900 SEK/month (female, government sector, postgraduate education)
• Highest salary for men: 52,500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary for men: 46,400 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 302 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn on average 47 300 SEK (92% of men's salary, men: 51 200 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and employer, but exact figures are not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a building operations engineer, a post-secondary education in construction technology, energy, or similar technical field is usually required. Many employers prefer a university or college degree, often supplemented with practical experience in the construction industry. Additional training and certifications in areas such as energy efficiency, building automation, or occupational health and safety are advantageous and can influence both employability and salary development.

• Education: Bachelor’s degree (3 years) in construction, energy, or installation technology
• Certifications: e.g., certificates in energy, environment, building automation
• Internships: Internships or trainee programs during education are common
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies, usually science or technical high school programs
• Additional courses: Courses in occupational health and safety, leadership, or project management can be valuable

Common benefits and compensation

Building operations engineers are often offered benefits such as pension schemes, wellness allowances, insurances, and opportunities for further education. Other common benefits include flexible working hours, work clothing, and sometimes company cars, especially for those responsible for multiple facilities or sites. Depending on the employer, bonuses or performance-based compensation may also be available.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a building operations engineer is assessed as moderate, with a balance between supply and demand according to the Employment Service’s forecast. Challenges in the profession often involve staying updated with rapid technological developments, particularly within energy, automation, and sustainable construction. The increasing requirements for documentation, environmental certification, and safety continually raise the demands on knowledge and precision. Additionally, workload can be high at times, especially in larger projects or during unexpected operational disruptions.

Tips for aspiring building operations engineers

To succeed as a building operations engineer, it’s beneficial to combine technical curiosity with collaboration and clear communication skills. A structured personality helps when optimizing complex systems and quickly resolving operational issues. Gaining practical experience through internships during studies is advisable to get early insight into the industry and build networks. Engagement in technical associations or further education in areas like energy or automation can give an advantage in the job market. Adaptability is valuable since the work environment and tasks often vary. An analytical mindset aids troubleshooting and improvement work, and ultimately, being solution-oriented and proactive is key to driving projects forward.

Key facts about building operations engineers

• Educational level: Bachelor’s degree (3 years) in construction or energy
• Work environment: Varied between office, construction site, and technical facilities
• Demand: Moderate, expected to increase within five years
• Typical work arrangement: Full-time, sometimes shifts or on-call
• Special skills: Energy efficiency, building automation, project management

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years in the profession, a building operations engineer can advance to roles such as technical manager, project leader, or specialist in energy and environmental technology. There are also opportunities to work as a consultant or oversee larger property portfolios. According to the Employment Service’s forecast for engineers and technicians in construction and civil engineering, job prospects are assessed as moderate nationally, but demand is expected to grow over the next five years, driven by technological development and increased requirements for sustainable building. Currently, there are 379 job openings in the field, indicating mobility and good opportunities for those with the right skills. Technological advances and digitalization of the construction sector also mean new specialized roles may emerge.

Common questions about building operations engineers

• What does a building operations engineer earn?
  - The average salary is 50 200 SEK per month, with a range between 41,400 and 57,900 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
• Are there differences between men and women in the profession?
  - Yes, women earn on average 47 300 SEK, which is about 92% of men's salaries (51 200 SEK).
• What education is required to become a building operations engineer?
  - Most commonly, a university engineering degree in construction, energy, or installation technology, often supplemented with practical experience and certifications.
• What are the future prospects for building operations engineers?
  - The forecast is good, with moderate current job opportunities and an expected increase over the next five years.
• What are the job responsibilities of a building operations engineer?
  - Tasks include planning, operation, maintenance, and optimization of building technical systems, as well as troubleshooting operational issues.
• How competitive is the job market?
  - The competition is assessed as moderate, with a balanced recruitment situation according to the Employment Service.
• What benefits are common in the profession?
  - Pension schemes, wellness allowances, insurances, flexible hours, and opportunities for further training are common benefits.