Real estate engineer

What does a property machinery operator do? – Tasks and work environment

A property machinery operator is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and servicing of technical systems in larger properties, such as heating, ventilation, cooling, and electricity. Tasks also include troubleshooting, repairs, and energy optimization to ensure safe and efficient property operation. The role often involves contact with tenants, contractors, and property managers, requiring both technical skills and excellent customer service. The work environment varies between office buildings, residential properties, hospitals, and industrial facilities, and can involve both independent work and teamwork.

Salary development over time

The salary for a property machinery operator has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,300 SEK per month, rising to 31 000 SEK in 2023 and further to 32 400 SEK in 2024. This development represents a total increase of approximately 7% over the period. The positive trend can partly be explained by increased focus on energy efficiency and technical management within the property sector, which has increased demand for qualified technicians. Despite this, the job market is characterized by a certain surplus nationwide, meaning salary development is mainly driven by technical requirements and skill enhancement rather than labor shortages.

Property machinery operator salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 32 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 22,600 SEK/month (female), 26,500 SEK/month (male)
• Highest salary: 38,800 SEK/month (male), 37,900 SEK/month (female)
• Hourly wage: 195 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 98% of what men do (31 900 SEK/month vs 32 500 SEK/month)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary, but current figures show no significant differences between regions.

Education and qualifications

To work as a property machinery operator, a technical education at high school level with specialization in property, HVAC, or electrical engineering is usually required. Many employers also seek additional courses or certifications in energy, ventilation, or control systems. Practical experience through internships or trainee positions is highly advantageous, and further education is available via vocational colleges or industry-specific training programs.

• High school education: Construction and civil engineering, HVAC, or property management programs (3 years)
• Vocational college: Property machinery technician (1–2 years)
• Certifications: Examples include OVK compliance, hot work permits, control systems technology
• Internship: Often required in industry-specific internships or trainee programs
• Prerequisites: Technical interest and basic knowledge of mathematics and physics

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to base salary, property machinery operators often receive benefits such as wellness allowances, work clothing, mobile phones, and sometimes car benefits. Overtime pay, shift allowances, and extra vacation days may also be offered depending on the employer and collective agreements. Opportunities for further training and certification courses are also common.

Competition and challenges

The job market for property machinery operators is characterized by a surplus, which means competition for available positions can be high in some areas. Nevertheless, there are about 481 available jobs nationwide within the profession, indicating ongoing demand. Challenges in the profession mainly involve staying updated on new technical solutions, energy efficiency, and digitalization of property systems. Tasks can be physically demanding and sometimes require work during inconvenient hours. The ability to quickly solve urgent problems and work independently are important qualities for success in the role.

Tips for aspiring property machinery operators

To succeed as a property machinery operator, it’s beneficial to have a strong technical interest and curiosity about how different systems work, which facilitates both education and troubleshooting. Being precise and methodical helps with troubleshooting and maintenance, while good teamwork skills are essential as the role often involves contact with colleagues and tenants. An proactive attitude is appreciated by employers and increases the chances of taking on responsibilities early in your career. Continuing education in new technologies and regulations is also wise to strengthen your position in the job market. Flexibility and the ability to handle stress are valuable, especially in situations where operations must be quickly secured. Finally, an interest in energy efficiency and sustainability can open doors to more specialized and in-demand roles within the industry.

Key facts about property machinery operators

• Education level: High school or vocational college education
• Work environment: Varied, often technically advanced and partly field-based
• Demand: Limited opportunities according to the Employment Service
• Available jobs: Approximately 481 nationwide within the profession
• Special skills: Control systems, energy optimization, digital monitoring

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a property machinery operator, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as property technician, operations technician, or supervisor in operations and maintenance. Further education can lead to specialization in energy optimization, automation, or property management. According to the Employment Service’s forecast, the job market outlook remains unchanged over the next five years, with limited opportunities at the national level and a certain surplus of workforce. However, regional variations and specific segments driven by new technology and sustainability focus can influence demand. For those wishing to broaden their skills, opportunities also exist in project management or technical consulting within the property industry.

Frequently asked questions about property machinery operators

• What is the average salary for a property machinery operator?
  - The average salary is 32 400 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn on average 31 900 SEK while men earn 32 500 SEK, which corresponds to 98% of men's salary.
• What education is required to become a property machinery operator?
  - A vocational technical education or college program specializing in property, HVAC, or electrical engineering is recommended.
• What does the job market look like for property machinery operators?
  - The job market is characterized by limited opportunities and a surplus of labor nationwide.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries in the profession?
  - The highest salary is 38,800 SEK (male), 37,900 SEK (female). The lowest is 22,600 SEK (female), 26,500 SEK (male).
• What benefits are common for property machinery operators?
  - Common benefits include wellness allowances, work clothing, mobile phones, and sometimes car benefits, as well as opportunities for further training.
• Are there many job openings in the profession?
  - There are approximately 481 available jobs nationwide within the property caretaker profession.