Sales engineer, technology and medicine

What does a sales engineer in technology and medicine do? – Tasks and work environment

A sales engineer in technology and medicine works with selling advanced technical products and medical equipment to companies, hospitals, and other organizations. Tasks include analyzing customer needs, presenting technical solutions, negotiating agreements, and providing technical support before and after sales. The role often requires explaining complex products in an educational manner and building relationships with purchasers, technicians, and doctors. The work environment is varied and can include office work, customer visits, trade shows, and sometimes travel within Sweden and internationally.

Salary development over time

The salary for a sales engineer in technology and medicine has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,700 SEK, which increased to 49 600 SEK in 2023 and reached 51 300 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 9.9 % during the period. This development reflects a continued strong demand for technically skilled salespeople in the medical technology and technical sectors, where product complexity and customer demands drive up salaries. The salary increase can also be explained by industry needs for specialized skills and the ability to combine technical understanding with business acumen. Despite the upward trend, differences between genders and sectors remain significant.

Sales engineer in technology and medicine salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 51 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,200 SEK/month (female, public sector)
• Highest salary: 61,500 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage: 309 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 47 200 SEK, men 53 000 SEK – women earn 89 % of men's salaries
• Regional differences: Data on regional differences is limited, but metropolitan areas tend to offer higher salaries

Education and qualifications

To work as a sales engineer in technology and medicine, a university or engineering degree in technology or medicine is usually required, combined with knowledge in sales and business development. Many employers seek experience in the technical or medical sector, as well as the ability to understand and communicate complex technical solutions. Further education, certifications, and industry-specific courses are often advantageous and can increase employability.

• Formal degree: Bachelor or Master of Engineering (3–5 years)
• Specialized courses: Sales, business development, medical technology
• Internship/trainee: Common in larger companies
• Prerequisites: Mathematics and science at high school level
• Certifications: Industry-specific certificates for medical technology or technical sales

Common benefits and compensation

Typical benefits for sales engineers in technology and medicine include company cars, bonuses or commissions based on sales results, wellness allowances, and often access to training and pension contributions. Many employers also offer flexible working hours and remote work options, especially for those managing customers over large geographic areas.

Competition and challenges

The competition for roles as a sales engineer in technology and medicine is moderate but increasing as more companies digitize their sales processes and demand for technical skills grows. The profession requires a combination of technical knowledge and social skills, which makes the recruitment pool relatively narrow. Sales targets can be high, and workload varies seasonally and by industry. Challenges also include staying updated on new products and regulations, especially in medical technology where legal requirements can change rapidly. The ability to build long-term customer relationships and adapt to rapid technological changes is crucial for success.

Tips for aspiring sales engineers in technology and medicine

To succeed as a sales engineer in technology and medicine, it is beneficial to combine strong analytical skills with a genuine interest in technology and problem-solving. Being communicative and pedagogical helps when explaining complex products to customers and colleagues. It is also important to be results-oriented and comfortable working towards clear goals, as the sales process is often long and demanding. Flexibility and adaptability are valuable traits when products, markets, and customer needs change quickly. Building networks and nurturing customer relationships are central to creating long-term business. Good collaboration skills, both internally and externally, aid in success. Finally, a continuous willingness to develop skills can open new opportunities within both technology and sales.

Key facts about sales engineers in technology and medicine

• Education level: Bachelor or Master of Engineering (3–5 years)
• Work environment: Varied between office, customer visits, and travel
• Typical employment: Permanent position with results-based salary and bonuses
• Demand: 550 job openings nationally within the profession
• Special skills: Technical knowledge and commercial ability

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the role as a sales engineer in technology and medicine, many advance to senior roles, product managers, or take responsibility for larger customer accounts. Others choose to specialize in areas such as business development, technical consulting, or project management. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, job opportunities are medium-sized and expected to remain unchanged over five years, with a continued balance between supply and demand. There are good opportunities for skill development and advancement within larger companies, especially for those combining technical expertise with business acumen. New technologies and digitalization also create a need for new skills, keeping the profession relevant.

Common questions about sales engineers in technology and medicine

• What does a sales engineer in technology and medicine earn?
  - The average salary is 51 300 SEK per month, but it varies depending on experience, sector, and education level.
• What are the gender differences within the profession?
  - Men earn on average 53 000 SEK, while women earn 47 200 SEK, which means women earn 89 % of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a sales engineer in technology and medicine?
  - Usually, a university or engineering degree in technology or medicine, supplemented with courses in sales.
• What benefits are common in the profession?
  - Benefits such as company cars, bonuses, wellness allowances, and flexible working hours are common.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The forecast indicates moderate demand and a balanced job market, with stable employment opportunities in the coming years.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a sales engineer in technology and medicine?
  - The highest salary is 61,500 SEK/month, and the lowest is 38,200 SEK/month.
• What personal qualities are important for success?
  - Analytical skills, communication skills, flexibility, and goal orientation are key qualities.