What does a Facility Operations Technician do? – Tasks and work environment
A facility operations technician is responsible for monitoring, operating, and maintaining technical systems and installations in properties. Tasks often include troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, energy optimization, and coordinating contractors and suppliers. The role requires regular oversight of heating, ventilation, and cooling systems, and sometimes responsibility for security systems and building automation. The work environment can vary between office buildings, residential properties, industrial sites, or public facilities, often involving both independent work and collaboration with other technicians and property managers.
Salary development over time
The salary for a facility operations technician has shown steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,300 kronor per month, then increased to 31 000 kronor in 2023. The latest measurement from 2024 indicates a further rise to 32 400 kronor, representing an increase of approximately 7% over three years. This positive trend can be explained by increased technical complexity in modern properties and a growing need for expertise in energy optimization and sustainability. Meanwhile, competition for jobs has been relatively high, which limits salary growth compared to some other technical professions. Gender differences have been low, with women earning 98% of men's salaries.
Facility Operations Technician salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 32 400 kr/month
- Lowest salary: 22,600 kr/month
- Highest salary: 38,800 kr/month
- Hourly wage (average): 195 kr/hour
- Women's average salary: 31 900 kr/month (98% of men's salary)
- Men's average salary: 32 500 kr/month
- Regional differences: No significant variation data available
Education and qualifications
To work as a facility operations technician, a high school education in property, technology, or energy is usually required, often supplemented with post-secondary courses or vocational training. Practical experience and technical interest are highly valued, and many employers require certifications or specialized skills in areas such as ventilation, electrical systems, or control systems. The industry also offers opportunities for further training and certification through shorter courses or self-study.
- Vocational college education: 1.5–2 years in property technology or facility operations
- High school education: Building and construction program with property specialization
- Certifications: For example, in ventilation, electrical systems, or energy optimization
- Internships: Common during education and valued in recruitment
- Prerequisites: Technical interest, some IT skills, and problem-solving ability
Facility operations technicians often work with advanced automation systems controlling everything from climate to security. The role requires continuous updating of knowledge and the ability to quickly adapt to new technology, making the profession especially dynamic for those interested in technology.
Common benefits and compensations
Benefits for facility operations technicians often include wellness allowances, work clothing, insurance, and skills development. Sometimes, a company car or bicycle benefit is included. Standard in most employment agreements are pension plans and overtime pay.
Competition and challenges
Despite technological advances and increased demands for energy efficiency, competition for positions as a facility operations technician is high. Nationally, the recruitment situation is characterized by an oversupply of applicants, meaning more seek jobs than available positions. Over the next five years, demand is expected to remain unchanged, according to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts. Challenges include staying updated with rapidly changing technology and balancing practical work with digital solutions. The large number of available jobs means opportunities vary across regions and employers.
Tips for those wanting to become a Facility Operations Technician
To succeed as a facility operations technician, curiosity and a strong interest in technology are important, as the role requires quickly understanding and managing new systems. Precision is crucial for troubleshooting and performing preventive maintenance safely. Being service-minded and communicative helps in collaborating with colleagues, suppliers, and property owners. Initiative is appreciated, especially during urgent faults or when improvements can be made. Flexibility is also beneficial, as tasks can range from planned maintenance to emergency repairs. Continuous education and acquiring new technical knowledge provide a competitive edge. Finally, problem-solving skills are a strength, as many situations require independent decisions and practical solutions.
Key facts about Facility Operations Technicians
- Education level: Vocational college or high school with a technical focus
- Typical work form: Full-time, often daytime but sometimes on-call
- Number of job openings: 481 (May 2024, national)
- Demand: Limited opportunities, oversupply of labor
- Special skills: Building automation and energy optimization highly valued
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a facility operations technician, there are opportunities to advance to supervisory roles, such as operations manager, technical property manager, or property director. Specialization in energy, ventilation, or building automation can provide further career opportunities and higher salaries. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, the job market is expected to be stable with limited opportunities nationwide and a surplus of labor. However, regional variations exist, and there is an ongoing need for experienced technicians, especially in the energy sector and larger property companies. Continuous training and certifications are important for improving future prospects.
Frequently asked questions about Facility Operations Technicians
- What does a Facility Operations Technician earn?
- A facility operations technician has an average salary of 32 400 kronor per month.
- How has the salary development looked for a Facility Operations Technician?
- The salary has increased from 30,300 kronor in 2022 to 32 400 kronor in 2024.
- Is there a difference between men's and women's salaries?
- Yes, women earn on average 31 900 kronor (98% of men's salary of 32 500).
- What education is required to become a Facility Operations Technician?
- Usually, a vocational college or high school education with a technical focus is required.
- What is the job market like for Facility Operations Technicians?
- The job market is competitive with limited opportunities nationally, but there are 481 registered job openings.
- What are the highest and lowest salaries in the profession?
- The highest salary is 38,800 kronor and the lowest is 22,600 kronor per month.
- What benefits are common for Facility Operations Technicians?
- Common benefits include wellness allowances, work clothing, insurance, and skills development.
