Industrial electrician

What does an industrial electrician do? – Tasks and work environment

An industrial electrician works with installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems within the industry. Tasks include troubleshooting, reconfiguration, and optimization of control and regulation equipment in factories, workshops, and production facilities. The industrial electrician often works in teams with other technicians and engineers to ensure efficient production without downtime. The work environment is characterized by technically advanced settings where safety routines are crucial, and work may involve day shifts or shifts depending on operational needs.

Salary development over time

The salary for industrial electricians has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average monthly salary was 36,800 SEK, which increased to 37 400 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary reached 39 700 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 7.9% over the three-year period. This positive trend can mainly be attributed to sustained high demand for qualified industrial electricians in Swedish industry and increased technical complexity of the systems handled. The salary increase has also been influenced by skills shortages in the market and a greater focus on automation and digitalization within the industry, which demands higher expertise from electricians.

Industrial electrician salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 39 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 35,300 SEK/month (female), 37,200 SEK/month (male)
• Highest salary: 44,700 SEK/month (male), 35,500 SEK/month (female)
• Hourly wage: 239 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 88% of what men do (35,500 SEK/month vs 40 100 SEK/month)
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To work as an industrial electrician, a high school education in the electrical and energy program is usually required, with specialization in automation or electrical engineering. After high school, it is common to supplement with specialized courses or certifications in industrial automation and safety. Practical experience from electrical work in industrial environments is highly valued, and many employers prefer new hires to have completed apprenticeship or internship periods. For those wishing to change careers later in life, adult education or YH (vocational university) programs are also available.

• High school education: Electrical and energy program, 3 years
• Certifications: Examples include ESA, Hot Work, electrical authorization
• Practical training: Often via apprenticeship during or after education
• YH education: Available as complementary or advanced training
• Prerequisites: Good knowledge of technology and mathematics

Common benefits and compensations

Industrial electricians are often offered benefits such as extra vacation, shift and overtime pay, wellness contributions, and opportunities for further education. In many cases, compensation for standby duty and overtime work is also provided, along with access to work clothing and protective equipment supplied by the employer.

Competition and challenges

The job market for industrial electricians remains strong with a large number of vacancies, but competition may increase as more people train in the field. One of the biggest challenges is rapid technological development, which requires continuous skills development and adaptation to new systems and safety standards. Salary differences between men and women are still noticeable, reflecting a broader industry challenge. Working under time pressure, in noisy environments, and with high demands on accuracy also means the profession requires both technical and mental resilience.

Tips for those who want to become an industrial electrician

To succeed as an industrial electrician, it’s good to have a genuine interest in technology and problem-solving, as troubleshooting and repairs are central parts of the job. Precision is crucial to ensure that installations and maintenance are performed correctly and safely. Flexibility is also an important trait, as tasks and working hours may vary depending on operational needs. Good teamwork skills are valuable since many assignments are carried out in teams with other technicians and engineers. Continuing education and staying updated on new technology also improve career development opportunities. Communication skills facilitate collaboration and make it easier to understand customer and colleague needs. Last but not least, a sense of responsibility and a safety-conscious work approach are essential for working safely and professionally in the often demanding industrial environment.

Key facts about industrial electricians

• Education level: High school, 3 years
• Work environment: Industrial facilities, often shifts and standby duty
• Demand: 481 job openings within the profession
• Gender distribution: Significant salary difference between men and women
• Special skills: Automation, troubleshooting, and control systems

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an industrial electrician, there are opportunities to develop into a specialist in automation, a supervisor, or a technician responsible for larger projects. Further education can lead to roles such as maintenance engineer or project manager within electrical and automation fields. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, it is not possible to give an exact forecast for the profession due to limited data, but the large number of job openings indicates that demand remains high, especially in industries investing in digitalization and automation. Opportunities for further training and certification in new technical areas make the profession attractive for those who want to develop long-term careers.

Frequently asked questions about industrial electricians

• What does an industrial electrician earn?
  - The average salary is 39 700 SEK per month, with variations between 35,300 SEK and 44,700 SEK depending on experience and workplace.
• How do salary differences between men and women look?
  - Men earn on average 40 100 SEK per month and women 35,500 SEK, which means women earn approximately 88% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become an industrial electrician?
  - Usually, a high school education in the electrical and energy program, preferably with internships or apprenticeship periods.
• Are there many job opportunities for industrial electricians?
  - Yes, there are currently a total of 481 job openings in the profession.
• What tasks does an industrial electrician perform?
  - Tasks include installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of electrical systems within the industry.
• What are the future prospects?
  - No forecast due to limited data, but demand is expected to be high thanks to technological development.
• What benefits are common in the profession?
  - Extra vacation, shift and overtime pay, wellness contributions, and opportunities for further education are common benefits.