Real estate engineer

What does a property engineer do? – tasks and work environment

A property engineer works with technical management, development, and maintenance of buildings. Job responsibilities often include managing operations and energy optimization, planning maintenance activities, and coordinating contractors and technical consultants. The role also involves analyzing and proposing improvements to building systems such as ventilation, heating, and electrical systems. Work is conducted both at an office and on-site at properties, where inspections and technical investigations are common. The property engineer plays a central role in ensuring buildings are functional, energy-efficient, and compliant with legal requirements.

Salary development over time

The salary for property engineers has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 45,900 SEK per month. In 2023, it rose to 49 900 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 8.7%. In 2024, the average salary has continued to rise to 50 200 SEK, a modest but steady increase of 0.6% from the previous year. This positive salary trend reflects a growing demand for technical expertise in the property sector, driven by digitalization, energy efficiency, and sustainability requirements. Salary levels are also influenced by competition for technical staff, especially in metropolitan areas where property portfolios are extensive and technically complex.

Property engineer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 50 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 41,400 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 57,900 SEK/month (female, government sector, postgraduate education)
• Highest for men: 52,500 SEK/month
• Lowest for men: 46,400 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 302 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 92% of what men do (women: 47 300 SEK, men: 51 200 SEK)

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a property engineer usually involves vocational university or college education in property technology, energy, or construction engineering. The programs combine technical subjects with courses in property economics, environmental issues, and management. Practical components and internships are common and provide valuable industry experience during studies. Some positions also require certifications or specialized knowledge in specific technical areas.

• Formal degree: Vocational university education (2–3 years) or a bachelor's in engineering (3 years)
• Certifications: Courses in energy optimization, building automation, or environmental certifications
• Internship: Extended internships or trainee programs during studies
• Prerequisites: Technical high school education often a minimum requirement
• Tips for choosing: Specializing in energy, environment, or digitalization increases employability

Common benefits and compensation

Typical benefits for property engineers include occupational pension, wellness allowance, mobile phone, company car for on-call or emergency work, and opportunities for skill development and further training. Some companies also offer bonus programs linked to energy savings or efficiency measures.

Competition and challenges

Property engineers face a work environment characterized by technological development, increased demands for energy efficiency, and digitalization of building systems. Competition for positions is balanced, but specific expertise in energy, sustainability, and smart buildings is increasingly sought after. Challenges include staying updated on new regulations, environmental standards, and technical solutions. Good collaboration skills are also essential, as the role involves contact with various stakeholders such as contractors, property owners, and authorities. The ability to combine technical expertise with economic and environmental considerations is crucial for long-term success in the profession.

Tips for those aspiring to become a property engineer

To succeed as a property engineer, it’s helpful to have an analytical mindset and strong problem-solving skills, as the work often involves evaluating technical systems and proposing improvements. Attention to detail is important when following maintenance plans and documenting actions. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with different professional groups, from technicians to property owners and contractors. Being flexible and curious about new technology makes it easier to adapt to rapid industry developments, while an interest in energy and environmental issues provides competitive advantages as sustainability requirements increase. Continuously furthering your education and building a network within the property industry are also valuable for long-term career development.

Key facts about property engineers

• Education level: Vocational college or bachelor's degree in engineering (2–3 years)
• Work environment: Combination of office and fieldwork
• Demand: 379 job openings in the profession (May 2024)
• Gender salary gap: Women earn 92% of what men do
• Typical work arrangement: Full-time, often daytime

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as technical manager, project leader in construction or energy, or specialist in environmental and energy technology. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, the opportunities for employment as a property engineer, within the group of engineers and technicians in construction and civil engineering, are moderate in the short term and expected to increase over five years. The demand is driven by technological development, automation, and increased focus on sustainability. The labor market balance means that the right skills and specialization can provide advantages in recruitment. Those wishing to develop their careers can also focus on leadership, business development, or consulting.

Frequently asked questions about property engineers

• What is the average salary for a property engineer?
  - The average salary is 50 200 SEK per month.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a property engineer?
  - The highest salary is 57,900 SEK and the lowest is 41,400 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn 92% of what men do (women: 47 300 SEK, men: 51 200 SEK).
• What education is required to become a property engineer?
  - Vocational university education (2–3 years) or a bachelor's in engineering (3 years) are most common.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The forecast indicates moderate current demand, with increasing needs over the next five years.
• What tasks does a property engineer perform?
  - Technical management, operation, maintenance, and energy optimization of buildings.
• What is the typical hourly wage for a property engineer?
  - The average hourly wage is 302 SEK.