Electrical sign fitter

What does an electrical sign installer do? – tasks and work environment

An electrical sign installer works with the installation, service, and maintenance of electric signs in various environments, from retail spaces to outdoor facades and public areas. Tasks include both installing new signs and troubleshooting or repairing existing systems. Work often takes place at high elevations and sometimes during night or weekend hours to avoid disrupting regular operations. Electrical sign installers regularly collaborate with electricians, construction workers, and clients, which requires both technical skills and good communication abilities.

Salary development over time

The salary for electrical sign installers has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 34,700 SEK per month, while in 2023 it rose to 37 100 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 7%. During 2024, the average salary continued upward to 37 700 SEK per month, a more modest increase of about 1.6% compared to the previous year. This salary trend reflects a continued high demand for skilled installation and service electricians, including electrical sign installers. The market's need for technical expertise and increased requirements for energy-efficient sign solutions have likely contributed to this positive development.

Electrical sign installer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 37 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 33,400 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 42,700 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 227 SEK
• Women: 33900 SEK/month
• Men: 37,800 SEK/month
• Women earn: 90% of what men do
• Regional differences: Variations may occur, especially between metropolitan areas and smaller towns.

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming an electrical sign installer typically involves completing a vocational high school program in electrical and energy studies, often with a focus on installation or service. Additional training in sign technology or specialized courses can be advantageous. Practical experience, especially through apprenticeships, is an important part of skill development and can be crucial for employment in the field.

• High school education: Electrical and energy program, 3 years
• Post-secondary education: Courses in sign technology, electrical installation, or similar
• Certifications: Electrical safety training and sometimes work at heights
• Internship: Apprenticeship or practical training with established companies
• Prerequisites: Good knowledge of electrical engineering and reading technical drawings

Common benefits and compensations

Electrical sign installers are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, insurance, and wellness contributions. Opportunities for overtime pay, allowances for work at other locations, and access to work clothing and protective equipment are common. Employers may also provide further training to meet new technical requirements.

Challenges and competition

There is currently a shortage of qualified electrical sign installers, which provides good employment opportunities for those with the right education and experience. Challenges include the technological development of sign solutions, where energy efficiency and digital systems impose new skill requirements. Safety aspects, especially when working at heights and with electrical installations, demand precision and updated knowledge. Competition for the most attractive workplaces can be tough, especially in metropolitan areas. However, the national shortage of electrical sign installers means the job market remains stable for several years.

Tips for those wanting to become an electrical sign installer

To succeed as an electrical sign installer, it’s good to combine technical precision with a problem-solving mindset, as the job often requires creative solutions on-site. Good physical fitness helps when working at heights and in varying environments, while resilience is important when installations need to be completed under time pressure. Being communicative aids in interactions with colleagues and clients, and a strong focus on safety is essential when working with electrical systems. Gaining practical experience early through internships or apprenticeships and staying updated on new techniques and safety standards can increase your chances of employment and career development. Showing flexibility and willingness to take on different projects can also enhance opportunities within the profession.

Key facts about electrical sign installers

• Education level: Vocational high school (3 years), often supplemented with specialized courses
• Work environment: Varied – both indoors and outdoors, sometimes at heights
• Typical employment: Full-time, often permanent positions
• Demand: High, nationally recognized shortage occupation according to the Swedish Public Employment Service
• Special skills: Electrical engineering, sign technology, and safety work

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, an electrical sign installer can advance to roles such as supervisor, project manager, or specialize in areas like digital signage and energy-efficient lighting. There is also the possibility to start one's own business for those interested in entrepreneurship. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast for installation and service electricians, the job market remains strong with high demand and a perceived shortage of qualified installers. Over a five-year horizon, demand is expected to remain unchanged, providing good future prospects for the profession. Further education in electrical engineering or project management can broaden career opportunities.

Common questions about electrical sign installers

• What is the average monthly salary of an electrical sign installer?
  - The average salary for an electrical sign installer is 37 700 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become an electrical sign installer?
  - Typically, a high school education within the electrical and energy program is required, along with an internship or apprenticeship period.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 90% of what men do in the profession.
• What is the job market like for electrical sign installers?
  - The job market is very good, with high demand for qualified personnel and a nationally recognized shortage occupation.
• What are the duties of an electrical sign installer?
  - Installation, service, and maintenance of electric signs, often at high elevations and in varying environments.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for an electrical sign installer?
  - The highest salary is 42,700 SEK/month and the lowest is 33,400 SEK/month.
• What are the future prospects?
  - Projections show continued high demand and a stable job market in the coming years.