Energy engineer, university engineer

What does an energy engineer with a university college degree do? – Tasks and work environment

An energy engineer with a university college degree works on developing, optimizing, and monitoring energy systems within industry, property management, or public sector. Tasks often include energy audits, designing heating and cooling systems, analyzing energy consumption, and implementing energy-efficient solutions. The role also involves work with renewable energy sources, environmental certifications, and advising on energy-saving measures. The work environment is varied and can include both office work and site visits, where collaboration with other engineers, technicians, and project managers is common.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salary development for energy engineers with a university college degree has been clearly positive. In 2022, the average salary was 41,500 SEK per month, which increased to 43 700 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary reached 45 300 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 9.2% over the period. This rise can be linked to increased demand for energy efficiency and sustainable solutions across various sectors, as well as a greater focus on environmental and climate issues. The salary trend also reflects the technical expertise and specialization required in the profession. Despite stable growth, salary levels vary depending on experience, education, and sector.

Energy engineer, university college degree salary – full overview

• Average salary: 45 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 37,000 SEK (female, public sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 68,000 SEK (female, municipal sector, doctoral degree)
• Highest salary men: 50,500 SEK
• Lowest salary men: 39,900 SEK
• Hourly wage (average): 272 SEK
• Women earn: 43 200 SEK (95% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 45 600 SEK

Education and qualifications

To work as an energy engineer with a university college degree, a technical education at university level is required, often within energy or mechanical engineering. The education includes both theoretical and practical components and provides a broad foundation in energy systems, thermodynamics, and sustainable development. Internships and project work are common parts of the program, providing valuable experience for working life.

• Formal degree: University college degree in energy or mechanical engineering (3 years)
• Internship: Often included in the education through internships or project work
• Certifications: Certifications in energy efficiency or environmental management can be advantageous
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies, mathematics, and physics
• Further education: Opportunities for additional courses or master's programs

Common benefits and compensations

Energy engineers with a university college degree are often offered benefits such as extra vacation days, wellness allowances, occupational pension, and flexible working hours. Other common compensations include skills development, remote work options, and sometimes company cars or travel allowances depending on the employer's size and sector.

Competition and challenges

The job market for energy engineers is generally good but can vary depending on region and economic conditions. The demand for specialists in energy efficiency and sustainable energy continues to grow as companies and public sector entities set higher environmental standards. Meanwhile, technological developments and increased certification requirements mean professionals need to stay updated on new laws and standards. Competition can be high for attractive positions, especially in major cities and leading consulting firms. The ability to combine technical expertise with project management and communication skills is an important success factor.

Tips for those aspiring to become an energy engineer with a university college degree

To succeed as an energy engineer with a university college degree, it is good to have an analytical mind and a genuine interest in technology and sustainable development. Curiosity and willingness to learn new systems and tools are advantageous, especially in a rapidly changing industry. Precision is crucial, as calculations and documentation often require accuracy. Being able to collaborate and communicate clearly with colleagues and clients is also important, as many projects are team-based. Flexibility and problem-solving skills facilitate handling unexpected challenges during projects. It is also wise to build a professional network early, for example through internships or summer jobs, to increase chances of a successful career start.

Key facts about energy engineers with a university college degree

• Education level: University college degree (3 years)
• Work environment: Variations between office, field, and project settings
• Typical work arrangement: Full-time, often project-based
• Demand: 564 available jobs in 2024
• Special skills: Energy systems, energy efficiency, environmental technology

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, an energy engineer with a university college degree can advance to roles such as project manager, specialist in energy efficiency, or environmental and sustainability officer. Other career options include consultancy, technical sales, or further education towards a civil engineer or master's degree. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, it is difficult to give an exact assessment of future prospects for energy engineers, as the profession is part of the broader group “Engineers and technicians in mechanical engineering.” However, there is continued demand for engineers with energy skills, especially within water, heating, and HVAC sectors. Currently, there are 564 available jobs within the profession, indicating good opportunities for new and experienced professionals. Factors such as sustainability requirements and energy efficiency legislation are expected to continue driving the need for qualified energy engineers.

Frequently asked questions about energy engineers with a university college degree

• What does an energy engineer with a university college degree earn?
  - The average salary is 45 300 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, education, and sector.
• How has the salary development been for energy engineers?
  - Salaries have increased from 41,500 SEK (2022) to 45 300 SEK (2024), representing an increase of approximately 9.2%.
• What education is required to become an energy engineer?
  - The minimum requirement is a three-year university college degree in energy or mechanical engineering.
• Are there regional differences in salary?
  - Salary levels can vary between regions and employers, but no detailed statistics are available.
• What career paths are available within the profession?
  - Common paths include project management, specialist roles, consulting, and further education.
• What is the demand like on the job market?
  - There are 564 available jobs indicating good demand.
• What benefits are common for energy engineers?
  - Extra vacation days, wellness allowances, occupational pension, and flexible work arrangements are common.