Function leader, railway traffic

What does a railway traffic operations manager do? – Tasks and work environment

A railway traffic operations manager is responsible for leading and coordinating daily railway traffic operations. The role involves monitoring traffic, ensuring train departures and arrivals occur according to schedule, and managing disruptions and deviations. Continuous contact with train drivers, traffic controllers, station staff, and external actors is central, as well as making quick decisions during unforeseen events. The work environment often features high tempo, shift work, and demands for accuracy and stress resilience, as safety is always a priority.

Salary development over time

The salary for railway traffic operations managers has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,100 SEK per month. The following year, 2023, it rose to 39 000 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 5.1%. In 2024, the average salary has reached 40 200 SEK, an increase of another 3.1% from the previous year. This positive trend can be attributed to increased demand for skilled labor as railway traffic modernizes and digitalizes. Collective agreements and union negotiations also influence salary development, and the education level among new hires has risen, benefiting salary levels within the profession.

Railway traffic operations manager salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 40 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 37,400 SEK/month (female, private sector, 3-year high school education)
• Highest salary: 42,400 SEK/month (male, public sector, 3+ years post-secondary education or more)
• Hourly wage: 242 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Women earn on average 94% of what men do (men: 40 900 SEK, women: 38 400 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and employer.

Education and qualifications

To work as a railway traffic operations manager, a high school diploma is usually required, often with a technical or transport focus, along with further training in railway or traffic management. Experience from operational traffic control or work within the railway sector is highly meritorious, and many employers also require good leadership qualities. Some roles require specific certifications or completed internal training.

• High school education: Technical or transport-oriented program (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: Relevant training in traffic management or logistics (2–3 years recommended)
• Certifications: Specific permits for safety-sensitive tasks may be required
• Internship/Trainee: Practical experience within the railway sector is often a requirement
• Prerequisites: Good Swedish and English, stress resilience, and leadership ability

Common benefits and compensations

Railway traffic operations managers are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pensions, insurance, overtime compensation for shift work, and extra vacation days. Some employers also provide wellness allowances, employee discounts, and opportunities for skills development through internal courses or further training.

Competition and challenges

The profession of railway traffic operations manager exists in an industry with moderate opportunities for new employment and a balanced recruitment situation. Challenges include managing high work pace, shift work, and the responsibility of coordinating critical infrastructure. Increased digitalization and automation are changing job tasks and require continuous skills development. The ability to quickly analyze and solve problems under pressure is crucial, especially during traffic disruptions or accidents. Competition for positions may vary regionally, but overall demand remains stable.

Tips for those wanting to become railway traffic operations managers

To succeed as a railway traffic operations manager, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a structured approach and good communication. Pursuing further education in logistics or traffic management can provide advantages in recruitment, especially if technical systems and digital tools are well mastered. Stress resilience is key, as the pace is often high and decisions must be made quickly during unforeseen events. Demonstrating leadership, even in small groups, is valuable and can be developed by taking responsibility in projects or work teams. Good collaboration skills facilitate dialogue with various actors and contribute to creating a safe work environment. Staying updated on industry developments and being open to new working methods strengthen your position in the job market.

Key facts about railway traffic operations managers

• Education level: High school or post-secondary education in transport or technology
• Work environment: Shift work, often high tempo, safety-focused
• Demand: Moderate opportunities for employment, 412 job openings in the profession
• Leadership: Requires good collaboration skills and decisiveness
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 94% of men's salaries

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a railway traffic operations manager, there are opportunities to advance to higher managerial roles, such as operations manager or planning officer within larger traffic organizations. Some choose to specialize further in traffic planning, safety, or development projects related to digitalization. According to the Employment Service's forecasts, job opportunities are moderate, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. The sector is characterized by stability, but technological and infrastructural changes may influence skill requirements in the future. With broad experience, opportunities within education, consulting, or project management in the transport sector also open up.

Frequently asked questions about railway traffic operations managers

• What does a railway traffic operations manager earn?
  - The average salary is 40 200 SEK per month, but it can vary between 37,400 SEK and 42,400 SEK depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• What education is required to become a railway traffic operations manager?
  - High school education with a technical or transport focus is common, along with further training in traffic management or logistics.
• What is the work environment like for a railway traffic operations manager?
  - The work environment is characterized by shift work, high pace, responsibility, and safety focus.
• Are there gender differences in salary for the profession?
  - Yes, women earn on average 94% of what men do within the profession.
• What are the future prospects for railway traffic operations managers?
  - According to the Employment Service, job opportunities are moderate and demand is expected to remain unchanged in the coming years.
• What personal qualities are important in this profession?
  - Analytical skills, stress resilience, leadership, and good collaboration skills are central to success.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Advancement to managerial roles, specialization in traffic planning, or work in training and project management within the transport sector are possible.