Electrical engineer, university engineer

What does an electrical power engineer in electrical engineering do? – Tasks and work environment

An electrical power engineer in electrical engineering is responsible for developing, commissioning, and maintaining power grids, power systems, and electrical installations. Tasks often include designing electrical network solutions, optimizing energy flows, troubleshooting, and leading and coordinating technical projects. The role also involves work with sustainability issues, energy efficiency, and ensuring that installations comply with applicable regulations and safety standards. The work environment is varied and can include office work, field visits, and collaboration with other engineers, technicians, and external suppliers.

Salary development over time

The salary for an electrical power engineer, university engineer, has shown stable growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,600 SEK per month, then increased to 48 800 SEK in both 2023 and 2024. This represents an increase of approximately 4.7% between 2022 and 2023, with the level remaining unchanged thereafter. This development reflects a continued high demand for competence within the electrical power sector, while salaries have stabilized after previous years of increased competition for qualified engineers. The market is still considered strong, but the rapid salary increase has slowed somewhat, likely because the industry is now in a more mature phase where many employers have already adjusted salaries to the current market conditions.

Electrical power engineer, university engineer salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 48 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (male/female): 38,900 SEK / 41,600 SEK
• Highest salary (male/female): 66,400 SEK / 49,300 SEK
• Hourly wage (average): 293 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 95% of what men do (49 200 SEK/month for men, 46 700 SEK/month for women)
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on region and employer

Education and qualifications

To work as an electrical power engineer, university engineer, a technical university education in electrical engineering or power engineering is required. The education includes both theoretical and practical components, with knowledge of power systems, automation, and energy technology being central. Many supplement their education with certifications or internships during their studies to strengthen their competence and increase employability.

• Formal degree: University engineer degree in electrical engineering (3 years)
• Certifications: Examples include ESA (Electrical Safety Training) and project management courses
• Internships: Recommended within energy companies or consulting firms
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility + specific requirements in mathematics, physics, and technology
• Advice for choosing specialization: Focus on electrical power, automation, or energy technology for higher relevance

Common benefits and compensation

Electrical power engineers, university engineers, are often offered competitive benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexitime, and remote work options. Other common compensations can include further training, bonus schemes, and company cars, especially within the private sector. Employers in the energy industry generally invest in creating attractive packages to attract and retain qualified engineers.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an electrical power engineer remains relatively low, as the demand for trained engineers exceeds supply. At the same time, high demands are placed on technical competence, problem-solving skills, and the ability to quickly adapt to new technologies and regulations. The industry is influenced by the transition to renewable energy and digitization, which can pose challenges but also open new opportunities for specialization. The profession also requires continuous further education to stay up-to-date with industry developments.

Tips for those who want to become an electrical power engineer, university engineer

To succeed as an electrical power engineer, university engineer, it is good to combine technical interest with an analytical mindset and good teamwork skills. Engaging in internships or summer jobs during studies provides valuable experience and increases the chances of employment after graduation. Precision is an important trait, especially since the work often involves responsibility for safety-critical systems. Developing communication skills and the ability to work in teams is central, as many projects require collaboration with experts from different technical fields. It is also advantageous to stay updated on new technical solutions and standards within electrical power. A proactive attitude and willingness to learn new things facilitate both career start and ongoing development within the profession.

Key facts about electrical power engineer, university engineer

• Education level: University engineer degree (3 years)
• Work environment: Varied, both office and fieldwork
• Demand: Large opportunities for employment nationally
• Occupational group: Engineers and technicians within electrical engineering
• Number of job openings: 564 advertised positions in Sweden

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, electrical power engineers often move into more specialized roles, such as project managers, technical specialists, or consultants within power systems and energy supply. Some choose to pursue further education at master's level or research, while others advance to managerial positions within larger energy companies or consulting firms. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, the job market for engineers and technicians in electrical engineering is expected to remain stable, with great opportunities for work over the next five years. Demand is expected to stay unchanged, but recruitment challenges persist as many leave the profession, which increases the need for new electrical power engineers in the future.

Common questions about electrical power engineer, university engineer

• What does an electrical power engineer, university engineer, earn?
  - The average salary is 48 800 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• How does the salary development look for electrical power engineers?
  - Salaries have increased from 46,600 SEK (2022) to 48 800 SEK (2023/2024), an increase of nearly 5%.
• What education is required to become an electrical power engineer?
  - A university engineer degree in electrical engineering (3 years) is required, often supplemented with practical training or certifications.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries can vary depending on region, employer, and sector.
• What are the job tasks of an electrical power engineer?
  - Tasks include designing, operating, maintaining, and developing electrical power systems and technical projects.
• What are the future prospects?
  - Opportunities for employment are large, and demand is expected to remain high over the next five years.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for the profession?
  - The highest salary is 66,400 SEK (male, private sector, research education), the lowest salary 38,900 SEK (male, public sector, pre-secondary education).