Electrician, distribution

What does an electrician within distribution do? – Tasks and work environment

An electrician within distribution works with building, maintaining, and repairing power grids and distribution systems that supply electricity to communities and businesses. Tasks include installing and commissioning new power lines, troubleshooting, and fixing outages in existing networks. The work is often outdoors, at heights or in trenches, and sometimes under time pressure during urgent outages. The role requires both technical knowledge and great precision, as safety is very important. Collaboration with colleagues and other professionals in the energy and electrical sectors is a natural part of daily work.

Salary development over time

Electricians within distribution have experienced a steady and positive salary development in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,900 SEK per month, which increased slightly to 36 700 SEK in 2023. Between 2023 and 2024, there was a significant increase, with the average salary rising to 42 800 SEK per month, representing an increase of about 16.6%. This trend can be explained by an increased need for qualified labor in the energy sector, where expansion and modernization of the electrical grid have become increasingly important. At the same time, salaries are influenced by the ongoing electrification of society and investments in renewable energy, which drive up demand for distribution electricians. Overall, the outlook for the profession is positive, especially for those with the right education and certifications.

Electrician, distribution salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 42 800 SEK/month
• Lowest/Highest salary: Data unavailable
• Hourly wage: 257 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Men earn 43 100 SEK/month, data on women’s salaries is missing
• Regional differences: Data unavailable

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming an electrician within distribution usually involves a high school electrical and energy program with specialization in electrical engineering, followed by apprenticeship and industry-specific certifications. The education combines theory with practical components and emphasizes electrical safety and work environment. After completing the education, practical training or a traineeship is often required to obtain full authorization and work independently in the profession.

• High school electrical and energy program: 3 years
• Apprenticeship: 1–2 years depending on specialization and employer
• Certifications: General electrical authorization or equivalent industry certification
• Practical training/Traineeship: Often mandatory for obtaining a professional license
• Prerequisites: Approved grades in core subjects from compulsory school

Common benefits and compensations

Electricians within distribution are often offered benefits such as overtime pay, extra pay for night work, and wellness allowances. Many employers also provide work clothing, tools, and opportunities for further training. Company cars or travel allowances may be available for fieldwork, along with insurances and sometimes additional pension contributions.

Challenges and competition

The profession as an electrician within distribution is characterized by relatively high demand but also certain challenges. The work environment can be demanding, involving work at heights, in confined spaces, or under tough weather conditions. High safety standards are required, and continuous training is necessary to keep up with technological and legal changes. Competition for jobs can vary depending on the region and economic conditions, but there is generally a steady need for qualified electricians in distribution networks. For those who are flexible and willing to further their education, opportunities for employment and advancement increase.

Tips for those wanting to become electricians within distribution

To succeed as an electrician within distribution, it is beneficial to have an interest in technology and problem-solving, as the work often involves quickly identifying and fixing faults in the power grid. Precision is crucial to ensure both electrical safety and quality of work, so following routines and safety regulations is essential. Good teamwork skills facilitate collaboration with colleagues and other professionals, especially during larger projects or urgent interventions. Flexibility and readiness to work under varying weather conditions are advantageous, as is the ability to handle stress in time-sensitive situations. A structured work approach helps keep tools, materials, and documentation organized, which is central in the profession. Continuously updating oneself on new technology and regulations also provides a competitive edge and increases opportunities for professional development.

Key facts about Electrician, distribution

• Educational level: High school vocational training with apprenticeship
• Work environment: Mostly outdoors, sometimes at heights and in varying weather
• Demand: 481 job openings within the profession
• Special skills: Electrical safety and fault-finding in power grids

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession as an electrician within distribution, there are opportunities to advance to supervisory roles, project management, or specialist positions such as high-voltage work or grid planning. Further education can also lead to roles in operations management or technical consulting. The Employment Service does not provide a specific forecast for distribution electricians due to limited data, but the overall demand within installation, operation, and maintenance trades remains stable. A clear indicator of the need is the presence of 481 job openings in Sweden, indicating good prospects for newly trained and experienced electricians.

Frequently asked questions about Electrician, distribution

• What does an electrician within distribution earn?
  - The average salary for electricians within distribution is 42 800 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development looked for electricians within distribution?
  - Salaries have increased from 36,900 SEK/month (2022) to 42 800 SEK/month (2024), with a clear positive trend over the past year.
• What education is required to become an electrician within distribution?
  - High school electrical and energy program with specialization in electrical engineering, plus apprenticeship and certifications.
• What does the job market look like for electricians within distribution?
  - There are 481 job openings, indicating strong demand.
• What are the occupational health and safety requirements for electricians within distribution?
  - The work is often outdoors, at heights or in varying weather, with high safety standards.
• Are there differences in salary between men and women?
  - Men earn an average of 43 100 SEK/month, but specific data on women’s salaries is missing.