Vehicle technician

What does a vehicle technician do? – Tasks and work environment

A vehicle technician primarily works on servicing, maintaining, and repairing various types of vehicles, mainly passenger cars and light trucks, but also heavy vehicles. The tasks include troubleshooting and diagnostics with advanced technology, mechanical and electronic component replacement. The profession also involves performing service according to manufacturer recommendations, handling software updates, and sometimes customer contact for advice and information about completed work. The work environment is often workshop-based, involving standing and sometimes uncomfortable positions, as well as handling tools and machines. Safety regulations and ergonomics are important to prevent injuries in daily work.

Salary development over time

The salary for vehicle technicians has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,900 SEK per month. The following year, 2023, it increased to 33 200 SEK, representing an increase of about 4%. In 2024, the average salary continued upward and is now at 34 400 SEK, which is a further increase of approximately 3.6% from the previous year. This salary development reflects a continued high demand for skilled vehicle technicians, with technological advancements within the automotive industry demanding higher technical skills. The increase can also be linked to a growing need for specialized knowledge of modern vehicles and ongoing electrification in the transport sector. Despite this positive trend, certain salary gaps between men and women in the profession remain.

Vehicle technician salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 34 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,100 SEK/month (female, public sector)
• Highest salary: 36,300 SEK/month (male, regional sector)
• Hourly wage: 207 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Men 34 500 SEK, women 32 500 SEK (women earn 94% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salary variations occur between the public and regional sectors

Education and qualifications

To work as a vehicle technician, a vocational upper secondary education within the Vehicle and Transport program is generally required, with specialization in passenger cars, trucks, or machinery. Many employers also seek certifications or documented experience with specific vehicle types or technologies. Practical experience through internships or apprenticeship placements is often crucial for employment, and ongoing further training is common to keep up with rapid technological development.

• Upper secondary education: Vehicle and Transport program, 3 years
• Certifications: Examples include AC certification or electrical safety training
• Internships: Apprenticeship or practical placements during education
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for upper secondary school
• Further training: Courses in electric vehicles or advanced diagnostics are recommended

Common benefits and compensations

In the profession of vehicle technician, it is common to be offered benefits such as wellness allowances, work clothing and tools, as well as sometimes bonuses or performance-based supplements. Some employers also provide further training and certification courses, as well as discounted services or products related to vehicles. Other common benefits include occupational pension and insurance linked to employment.

Competition and challenges

The job market for vehicle technicians is characterized by a paradox: there is both a high demand for workers and a relatively high unemployment rate within the profession. Recruitment difficulties often stem from employers seeking technicians with specific skills, especially in new vehicle technology and electric vehicles. A challenge is the rapid technological development, which requires continuous further training and adaptability. Competition for the most attractive positions can be high, especially in metropolitan areas, while on rural areas it can be more difficult to find qualified personnel. The ability to quickly acquire new knowledge and work with advanced diagnostics is crucial to meet industry demands.

Tips for those who want to become a vehicle technician

To succeed as a vehicle technician, it is good to be both solution-oriented and precise, as troubleshooting and repairs often require patience and accuracy. A genuine interest in technology facilitates learning new systems and technologies that are rapidly introduced to the market. Good communication skills are valuable, especially in customer contact and collaboration with colleagues. Flexibility and adaptability are important traits, as tasks often vary and new challenges arise daily. Continuous further training and taking initiative to learn new technology provide competitive advantages. It is also important to be service-minded and have a positive attitude towards problem-solving. Finally, a structured work approach and good planning skills benefit both the work environment and delivering high-quality results to customers.

Key facts about vehicle technicians

• Education level: Vocational upper secondary education (3 years)
• Work environment: Workshop, often physically demanding
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide
• Special skills: Diagnostics, electrical and hybrid technology
• Number of job openings: 481 (May 2024)

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, vehicle technicians can advance to specialist roles such as electric vehicle technician, troubleshooting expert, or workshop supervisor. Some choose to further their education to higher-level technicians or move into roles as customer reception, workshop manager, or technical advisor. According to the Employment Service’s forecasts, job opportunities are large, and demand for vehicle technicians is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. However, there are recruitment challenges for employers, especially for positions requiring specialized skills. The industry’s transition to electrification and digitalization opens new career opportunities for those looking to develop further.

Common questions about vehicle technicians

• What is the average salary of a vehicle technician?
  - A vehicle technician has an average salary of 34 400 SEK per month.
• How large is the salary difference between men and women?
  - Men earn an average of 34 500 SEK, while women have an average salary of 32 500 SEK.
• What education is required to become a vehicle technician?
  - A vocational upper secondary education within the Vehicle and Transport program is required, often supplemented with certifications.
• What are the future prospects for vehicle technicians?
  - The Employment Service assesses that job opportunities are plentiful and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What tasks does a vehicle technician perform?
  - Tasks include servicing, repairing, troubleshooting, and diagnosing vehicles.
• How much does a vehicle technician earn per hour?
  - The hourly wage is approximately 207 SEK.
• Are there regional salary differences within the profession?
  - Salary variations occur between the public and regional sectors.