Operations technician, construction

What does a building operations technician do – tasks and work environment

A building operations technician is responsible for monitoring, optimizing, and maintaining technical systems in buildings and facilities. Tasks include commissioning, troubleshooting, repairs, and systematic maintenance of everything from ventilation and heating systems to electrical and control systems. The role often involves close collaboration with other technicians, contractors, and sometimes property owners, where problem-solving and technical expertise are central to daily work. The work environment can vary between offices, technical rooms, construction sites, and control centers, requiring both independence and good teamwork skills.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salary development for building operations technicians has been steadily positive. In 2022, the average salary was 45,900 SEK per month, increasing to 49 900 SEK in 2023 and further to 50 200 SEK in 2024. This represents a total salary increase of approximately 9.4% over the period. This trend can be partly explained by increased demand for technical skills within the construction and infrastructure sector, especially related to technological development and automation. Market changes emphasizing digitalization and energy efficiency have also contributed to increasing the value of specialized knowledge in the field. Despite relatively strong salary growth, the profession still exhibits salary differences based on gender and region, which is important to consider when making career choices.

Building operations technician salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 50 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 41,400 SEK/month (woman, public sector, high school diploma up to 2 years)
• Highest salary: 57,900 SEK/month (woman, government sector, postgraduate education)
• Hourly wage: 302 SEK
• Women earn: 47 300 SEK (92% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 51 200 SEK
• Regional differences: Present, with higher salaries in metropolitan areas and larger employers

Education and qualifications

To work as a building operations technician, a technical education focusing on installation, energy, or construction technology is usually required, often at high school or post-secondary level. Many employers also value practical experience with technical systems and specific certifications depending on the workplace's requirements. The educational path can vary, but a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills is essential for success.

• High school education: Technical program, e.g., HVAC and property management (3 years)
• Vocational college: Building operations technician program (1.5–2 years)
• Certifications: For example, hot work, electrical authorization, or control and regulation technology
• Practical training: Often included as internships or trainee positions during education
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility, technical interest, and problem-solving skills

Common benefits and compensation

Building operations technicians are often offered benefits such as collective agreement-based occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexitime, and opportunities for skills development. Other common compensations include overtime pay, work clothing, and sometimes bonuses for larger projects or efficiency gains. Car benefits or travel allowances may be provided for work across larger geographic areas.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a building operations technician is currently moderate, with the recruitment situation nationally considered balanced. Challenges in the profession mainly involve staying updated with rapid technological development, especially within automation and energy efficiency. Increased digitalization demands higher technical skills and adaptability. Additional challenges include managing irregular working hours or on-call duties, which require flexibility. The work environment can sometimes be physically demanding, involving work at heights or in confined spaces.

Tips for aspiring building operations technicians

To succeed as a building operations technician, it is good to combine a technical interest with strong problem-solving skills and good communication abilities. Being meticulous and organized is advantageous for troubleshooting and documentation, while flexibility facilitates adapting to changing tasks and schedules. Early internships or summer jobs in property management can help gain experience and networks. Further training in control technology or energy optimization can provide competitive advantages, especially in larger organizations. An open mind for new technology and a willingness to continuously develop skills are crucial to meet industry changes. Finally, teamwork skills are important, as the work often involves collaboration with other professionals.

Key facts about Building operations technicians

• Education level: High school or vocational college education
• Work environment: Varied – technical rooms, construction sites, offices
• Demand: Moderate, but growing over five years
• Typical employment: Full-time, sometimes shift work or on-call duties
• Special skills: Control systems, energy optimization, automation systems

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a building operations technician, there are opportunities for more qualified roles such as building supervisor, technical manager, or specialist in areas like energy and environmental technology. Some choose to further their education and move into project management or technical consultancy. According to the latest forecast from the Employment Service, the labor market is balanced, but demand is expected to increase over the next five years due to technological development and automation. The most recent job market survey showed 379 available positions, indicating good opportunities for both recent graduates and experienced technicians to find relevant jobs. Skills in digital systems and energy efficiency are becoming increasingly important for future career development.

Frequently asked questions about Building operations technicians

• What does a building operations technician earn?
  - The average salary is 50 200 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, education, and region.
• What education is required to become a building operations technician?
  - Most commonly, a high school education in technology or a vocational college education in building operations.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 47 300 SEK, which corresponds to 92% of men's average salary.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Demand for building operations technicians is expected to increase, especially within digitalization and energy optimization.
• In what work environments does a building operations technician work?
  - Technical rooms, construction sites, offices, and sometimes outdoor environments.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Building supervisor, technical manager, project manager, or automation specialist.
• What is the lowest and highest salary for a building operations technician?
  - The lowest salary is 41,400 SEK, and the highest is 57,900 SEK, depending on education and sector.