Fiber technology, manufacturing

What does a fiber technician in manufacturing do? – Tasks and work environment

A fiber technician in the manufacturing industry is responsible for installation, assembly, and maintenance of fiber optic cables and systems in various types of electrical and electronic equipment. The work often involves reading and interpreting drawings, preparing and connecting fiber cables, testing and troubleshooting networks, and documenting completed work. The work environment is typically industrial and may involve working in production facilities, workshops, or in the field, sometimes under time pressure and with high demands on precision and accuracy. Collaboration with other technicians and installers is common, and safety regulations must be followed carefully when handling sensitive electronic equipment and tools.

Salary development over time

The salary for fiber technicians in manufacturing has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,300 SEK per month, rising to 31 400 SEK in 2023 and reaching 32 600 SEK in 2024. The total increase amounts to approximately 7.6% during this period. This positive trend can be linked to continued high demand for qualified technicians in fiber and electronics, while digitalization and broadband expansion drive the need for specialized workforce. Salary levels are also influenced by education, experience, and regional differences, but the overall upward trend indicates a stable job market and good prospects for salary development within the profession.

Fiber technician, manufacturing salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 32 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,100 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Highest salary: 34,200 SEK/month (male, regional sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage (average): 196 SEK
• Women’s average salary: 31 300 SEK/month
• Men’s average salary: 33 200 SEK/month
• Women earn: 94 % of what men do

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a fiber technician in manufacturing usually starts with a high school education in electrical or energy programs, preferably with a focus on computer technology or automation. Many employers also value candidates who have completed certification courses in fiber optics and have practical experience through internships or trainee positions. Basic knowledge in technology, mathematics, and problem-solving is important, and there are opportunities to supplement with self-study or online courses to further strengthen skills.

• High school education: Electrical and energy programs, 3 years
• Certification courses: Fiber technology/fiber optics, 1–6 months
• Internship/trainee: Common during education
• Prerequisites: Basic technical knowledge, often B driving license
• Online courses: Available as a supplement to formal studies

Common benefits and compensations

Fiber technicians in manufacturing are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, work clothing, opportunities for further training, and sometimes bonuses or performance-based supplements. Other common compensations include overtime pay, shift allowances, and occupational pension schemes. Employers often invest in good working environments and modern tools to facilitate the work.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a fiber technician in manufacturing is assessed to be moderate to low, thanks to continued high demand in the market. At the same time, challenges include technological development that requires ongoing skills development and adaptation to new working methods. The recruitment situation is characterized by many leaving the profession, which creates a potential skills gap. Staying updated on new technical solutions and safety requirements is crucial for long-term success in the role. Regional differences may occur, especially in areas with extensive infrastructure projects.

Tips for those who want to become a fiber technician in manufacturing

To succeed as a fiber technician in the manufacturing industry, it’s good to be meticulous and have a strong sense of detail, as tasks often require precision. An interest in technology and a willingness to learn new things constantly facilitate rapid technological changes. Good teamwork skills are important since the work is often performed in teams and requires clear communication with colleagues and management. Being solution-oriented helps in troubleshooting and fixing problems quickly. Flexibility and adaptability are also valuable, especially when tasks vary between installation, testing, and documentation. It can be wise to take the initiative for further training or certifications to strengthen your competitiveness. Finally, actively seeking internships or trainee positions to build practical experience during education pays off.

Key facts about fiber technicians in manufacturing

• Education level: High school education, often supplemented with certification courses
• Work environment: Industrial setting, including workshops and fieldwork
• Demand: High, with 1,437 available jobs in the occupational group
• Work form: Full-time positions dominate, sometimes shift work
• Special skills: Fiber optics, troubleshooting, measurement technology

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a fiber technician in manufacturing can advance to roles such as lead installer, supervisor, or specialist in fiber optics and networks. There are also opportunities for further education to become a project manager, technical consultant, or instructor in training activities. According to the Employment Service’s forecasts, job prospects are very good within the group of electrical and electronic equipment installers, including fiber technicians. Demand is expected to remain unchanged over five years, while recruitment difficulties may give advantages to those with the right skills. Ongoing technological development and continued digitalization mean that the demand for qualified fiber technicians will remain stable in the future.

Frequently asked questions about fiber technicians in manufacturing

• What does a fiber technician in manufacturing earn?
  - The average salary is 32 600 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 196 SEK.
• How has the salary development looked for fiber technicians in manufacturing?
  - Salaries have increased by approximately 7.6% over the past three years, from 30,300 SEK in 2022 to 32 600 SEK in 2024.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 94% of what men do in the profession.
• What education is required to become a fiber technician in manufacturing?
  - High school education in electrical or technical programs, supplemented with certification courses in fiber optics, is most common.
• What is the job market like for fiber technicians?
  - Demand is high, with 1,437 available jobs in the occupational group and good future prospects according to the Employment Service.
• What benefits are common for fiber technicians?
  - Wellness allowances, work clothes, further training, and overtime pay are common benefits.
• What career opportunities are available after a few years?
  - Lead installer, supervisor, specialist in fiber optics or project manager are possible career paths.