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What does an electricity network installer do? – Tasks and work environment

An electricity network installer primarily works with the installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical distribution networks. This involves working on both high- and low-voltage installations, with a focus on ensuring the electrical grid functions safely and efficiently for households and businesses. Common tasks include pulling and connecting wires, installing poles and transformers, as well as troubleshooting and fixing operational disruptions. The work environment is outdoors in varying weather conditions and often at heights, requiring good physical fitness and strict safety awareness. The work is often performed in teams and may sometimes involve standby or on-call duties during power outages.

Salary development over time

The profession of electricity network installer has experienced a clear salary increase in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,900 SEK per month, while in 2023 it was 36 700 SEK, representing a slight decrease of about 0.5%. However, between 2023 and 2024, wages increased significantly to 42 800 SEK, which is nearly a 17% rise. This strong increase may be due to increased demand for skilled electricity network installers in line with the expansion of the grid and the transition to more renewable energy, as well as a heightened focus on electrical safety. A shortage of qualified workers in the field may also have driven up salary levels, especially in regions with high recruitment needs. Overall, the salary trend indicates that the profession has become increasingly attractive and that wages are aligned with market needs and technological development.

Electricity network installer salary – comprehensive overview

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

Education and qualifications

The typical path to becoming an electricity network installer is through the electrical and energy program at high school, followed by specialized training and certifications in electrical distribution. Practical experience is crucial, and many employers require various safety training before employment. Success requires both technical skills and good physical fitness, as the work is often physically demanding and performed at heights.

• High school education: Electrical and energy program, 3 years
• Certifications: ESA (Electrical Safety Instructions), work at heights
• Practical training: On-the-job learning during education
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility, interest in technology
• Courses/additional training: Continuing education in work environment and safety

Common benefits and compensations

For electricity network installers, it is common to receive allowances for unsociable hours, on-call pay, and sometimes per diems when working elsewhere. Other benefits may include wellness contributions, work clothing, protective gear, and opportunities for further training at the employer's expense. Some employers also offer advantageous pension plans and bonuses for special efforts.

Competition and challenges

Competition for jobs as an electricity network installer varies depending on region and economic conditions. In areas with extensive grid expansion or high transition rates, demand is high, which can lead to a shortage of qualified installers. Challenges in the profession include tough work environments, high safety standards, and sometimes working under pressure during outages or storms. Staying updated with the latest technical and safety requirements is also demanding, requiring continuous further education. Despite these challenges, the profession is considered stable with good employment opportunities for those with the right skills.

Tips for aspiring electricity network installers

To succeed as an electricity network installer, having a genuine interest in technology and being meticulous is important, as precision is critical when working with electricity. Good physical fitness and height tolerance facilitate outdoor work, often at heights. It is also essential to be cooperative and have strong communication skills, as tasks are often performed in teams with safety as a priority. Flexibility and problem-solving abilities are valuable when unexpected situations arise, especially during emergency repairs. Continuous education and staying updated on new regulations and techniques provide a competitive edge. Discipline and responsibility are necessary, as unsafe practices can pose significant risks. Finally, holding a driver's license is an advantage since many workplaces are difficult to access.

Key facts about electricity network installers

• Education level: High school (electricity and energy), additional certifications
• Work environment: Outdoors, often at heights and in varying weather
• Work form: Teamwork with standby and on-call duties
• Demand: 481 job openings in the profession (May 2024)
• Special skills: Electrical safety and work at heights

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years of experience as an electricity network installer, opportunities exist to advance to lead installer, supervisor, or project manager within electrical distribution. Some choose to further their education to become engineers or technicians in the electrical field. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, it is difficult to provide an exact forecast for the electricity network installer as a standalone profession, but the distribution electrician profession currently has a relatively high demand with 481 job openings. Ongoing electrification and investments in the grid indicate good future prospects in both the short and long term, although regional differences may occur. Skills in new technology and electrical safety increase opportunities for career development and advancement within the industry.

Frequently asked questions about electricity network installers

• What is the average salary of an electricity network installer?
  - An electricity network installer has an average monthly salary of 42 800 SEK.
• How does one become an electricity network installer?
  - Most commonly by attending the electrical and energy program at high school and then supplementing with certifications and practical training.
• What are the job responsibilities of an electricity network installer?
  - Responsibilities include installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical distribution networks, as well as troubleshooting and emergency responses during power outages.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Salary data exists for men (43 100 SEK), but specific statistics for women are missing.
• What are the future prospects for electricity network installers?
  - Demand within the profession is good, but there is no exact forecast for electricity network installers specifically.
• What benefits are common for electricity network installers?
  - Common benefits include overtime pay, on-call allowances, wellness contributions, and protective equipment.
• Is a driver's license required to work as an electricity network installer?
  - Yes, a driver's license is often a requirement since workplaces can be difficult to access.