Ship electrician

What does a ship electrician do? – Tasks and work environment

A ship electrician is responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical systems onboard ships. Tasks include troubleshooting electrical systems, servicing generators and engines, and managing control and monitoring systems. The work is often carried out in engine rooms, confined spaces, and environments with high safety standards, where access to spare parts and tools may be limited. The profession requires precision, technical understanding, and the ability to work independently under pressure, especially at sea where quick interventions can be critical for the safety of the vessel.

Salary development over time

The salary development for ship electricians has shown a stable and positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,800 SEK per month, increasing to 37 400 SEK in 2023. The most recent annual salary measurement for 2024 is 39 700 SEK per month, representing an increase of approximately 7.9% over three years. This salary growth can largely be explained by the high demand for electricians with specialized maritime skills, as well as increased focus on safety and technological advancements in the shipping industry. The shortage of qualified ship electricians has also contributed to rising salary levels, especially in the private sector and among the most experienced professionals.

Ship electrician salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 39 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 35,300 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 44,700 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 239 SEK
• Women’s average salary: 35,500 SEK/month (88% of men’s salary)
• Men’s average salary: 40 100 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data on regional salary differences are not available

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a ship electrician typically involves vocational upper secondary education in electrical engineering, often supplemented with maritime-specific courses. Practical experience at sea is crucial for employment, and some employers require specific certificates for working on ships. A combination of theoretical education and practical onboard training provides the best foundation for success in the role.

• Upper secondary education: Electrical and energy program, specialization in electrical engineering (3 years)
• Maritime-specific courses: For example, ship electrician, electrical and automation systems
• Certifications: STCW certificate (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers)
• Practical training: Workplace-based learning onboard ships
• Prerequisites: Approved grades in mathematics, physics, and technology

Common benefits and compensations

Ship electricians are often offered benefits such as free food and accommodation at sea, overtime pay, wellness allowances, and favorable duty rotation systems to facilitate work-life balance.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a ship electrician varies depending on the type of vessel and employer, but the shortage of specialized personnel means demand is generally good. Challenges include working environments with high safety demands, long periods at sea, and the need for continuous technical updates. The profession also requires flexibility and readiness for urgent interventions, which can be physically and mentally demanding. For women, salary differences and underrepresentation in the industry can pose additional challenges. However, there are opportunities for development for those who demonstrate drive and commitment.

Tips for aspiring ship electricians

To succeed as a ship electrician, it’s beneficial to have a strong interest in technology and problem-solving, as troubleshooting and repairing complex systems are central tasks. Precision is critical, especially since small mistakes can have significant consequences onboard. Good physical condition and stress tolerance facilitate work in confined spaces and during emergency situations. It’s also important to collaborate and communicate clearly with colleagues from different disciplines onboard. Being adaptable and prepared for irregular working hours is an advantage, as well as a willingness to continuously update knowledge on new technical solutions and safety procedures.

Key facts about ship electricians

• Education level: Vocational upper secondary education (3 years), often supplemented with certificates
• Work environment: Onboard ships, often in engine rooms and confined spaces
• Typical employment: Permanent employment or rotational service
• Demand: High, especially for those with specialized skills and experience
• Number of job openings: 481 within the industry electrician group

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a ship electrician, opportunities open to advance to more specialized roles, such as technical manager or supervisor within ship maintenance. Some choose to further their education in automation or control systems and take responsibility for larger projects in the maritime industry. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicate that the industry as a whole has stable demand, although specific forecasts for ship electricians are limited due to data constraints. The large number of job openings within the industry electrician group (481 jobs) suggests a healthy job market for those with the right qualifications.

Frequently asked questions about ship electricians

• What does a ship electrician earn?
  - A ship electrician has an average salary of 39 700 SEK per month. The highest salary is 44,700 SEK and the lowest is 35,300 SEK.
• How to become a ship electrician?
  - The most common path is vocational upper secondary education in electrical and energy programs, supplemented with maritime-specific courses and onboard training on ships.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 35,500 SEK per month, which corresponds to 88% of men’s salaries.
• In what work environments does a ship electrician work?
  - Work is mainly conducted onboard ships, often in engine rooms and confined technical spaces with high safety standards.
• What are the future prospects for ship electricians?
  - Demand is generally high, but there are no detailed forecasts for ship electricians specifically. Within the industry electrician group, there are 481 job openings.
• What benefits are common for ship electricians?
  - Common benefits include free food and accommodation at sea, overtime pay, wellness allowances, and favorable duty rotation systems.
• What education level is required?
  - Vocational upper secondary education in electrical engineering and certifications, along with onboard practical training on ships.