Electrical designer

What does an Electrician Designer do? – tasks and work environment

An Electrician Designer works on designing and developing electrical systems and components for various technical solutions, often within the construction, industrial, or energy sectors. Common tasks include drawing electrical diagrams, sizing cables and components, and developing technical solutions that meet customer needs and safety regulations. The work is often carried out in close collaboration with other engineers, project managers, and sometimes clients. The work environment is typically office-based but can also involve visits to construction sites or industrial facilities for inspection, commissioning, or troubleshooting of installations.

Salary development over time

The profession of Electrician Designer has experienced stable salary growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,600 SEK per month. The following year, 2023, the average salary increased to 48 800 SEK, which corresponds to an increase of about 4.7%. Between 2023 and 2024, the salary has remained unchanged at 48 800 SEK per month. This development reflects increased demand for Electrician Designers during 2022–2023, with some slowdown thereafter. Underlying factors include technological advancements within energy and construction sectors, as well as continued high investment levels in infrastructure. Although the pace of salary increases has slowed, the profession remains attractive, especially in regions with strong industrial presence and high demand for qualified Electrician Designers.

Electrician Designer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 48 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,900 SEK/month (male, public sector), 41,600 SEK/month (female)
• Highest salary: 66,400 SEK/month (male, private sector, research education), 49,300 SEK/month (female)
• Hourly wage: 293 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 49 200 SEK, Women 46 700 SEK (women 95% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on region and employer, with higher levels in metropolitan areas and industrial centers.

Education and qualifications

To work as an Electrician Designer, a technical education in electrical engineering is usually required, often at university or master's level. The profession demands good knowledge of electrical technology, CAD tools, and relevant standards, as well as experience with project work. Practical experience and industry-specific certifications can be advantageous, especially for those working with advanced or safety-critical systems.

• Education: Bachelor's in electrical engineering (3 years) or Master's degree (5 years)
• Certifications: Electrical authorization, ESA or similar courses
• Internships: Internships or trainee positions during studies are common
• Prerequisites: Approved grades in mathematics, physics, and technology at upper secondary level
• Tips: Experience with CAD programs such as EPLAN or AutoCAD Electrical is often highly valued

Common benefits and compensations

Electrician Designers are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexitime, and the possibility of remote work. Additionally, bonus programs, training support, and sometimes perks related to occupational health services or staff discounts on technical equipment may be available. Company cars or travel allowances can also be provided for roles involving travel between different workplaces.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an Electrician Designer is relatively low, especially for those with current knowledge of modern electrical technology and experience in project-based work. However, the job market is characterized by a paradox: while many are educated, many leave the profession, creating recruitment challenges for employers. The challenges often involve staying updated on technical standards, digital tools, and industry requirements. High demands are also placed on accuracy and responsibility, as errors in design can have significant consequences. For those willing to continuously further their education and develop their skills, opportunities for a long and varied career are good.

Tips for aspiring Electrician Designers

To succeed as an Electrician Designer, it is beneficial to combine technical curiosity with analytical skills and teamwork. Seeking internships or summer jobs in electrical design during studies provides valuable work experience and a competitive edge in the job market. Precision and responsibility are key qualities, especially since the work often involves safety-critical solutions. Keeping up with technical standards and investing time in learning common CAD tools is also recommended. The ability to communicate clearly, both orally and in writing, facilitates collaboration with other professionals and clients. Lastly, flexibility and problem-solving skills are valuable, as projects often require quick adaptations and creative solutions.

Key facts about Electrician Designer

• Educational level: Bachelor's or Master's degree in electrical engineering
• Work environment: Office-based with elements of site work and project meetings
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment according to the Swedish Public Employment Service
• Typical work form: Full-time, often in project teams
• Special skills: CAD drawing, electrical standards, project management

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an Electrician Designer, there are good opportunities to move into more specialized roles, such as project manager, technical specialist, or chief engineer within electrical engineering. Some choose to further their education and work with advanced system design or research and development. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, opportunities within engineering and technical roles in electrical engineering remain large, with demand expected to stay steady over the next five years. The recruitment situation is characterized by many leaving the profession, creating challenges for employers and opportunities for new Electrician Designers to advance their careers. Currently, there are around 550 job openings in the field.

Common questions about Electrician Designer

• What does an Electrician Designer earn?
  - The average salary for an Electrician Designer is 48 800 SEK per month.
• What are the gender differences in Electrician Designer salaries?
  - Men earn an average of 49 200 SEK/month, women 46 700 SEK/month; women earn approximately 95% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become an Electrician Designer?
  - Typically, a university or master's degree in electrical engineering, along with knowledge of CAD and standards.
• How is the job market for Electrician Designers?
  - The job market is considered very good with large opportunities for employment and continued demand.
• What are the lowest and highest salaries for Electrician Designers?
  - The lowest salary is 38,900 SEK/month (male, public sector), and the highest is 66,400 SEK/month (male, private sector, research education).
• What benefits are common for Electrician Designers?
  - Benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexitime, and training support are common.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salary levels can be higher in metropolitan areas and regions with a strong industrial presence.