Engineer, electronics

What does an electronics engineer do? – Tasks and work environment

An electronics engineer works on developing, designing, and improving electronic systems and components. Tasks can include everything from circuit board design and programming embedded systems to troubleshooting, testing, and quality assurance of electronic products. Typical work environments are technology-intensive companies within telecommunications, automotive, industry, or energy sectors, where projects are often team-based and require close collaboration with other engineers and specialists. The work environment is characterized by a fast pace, technological innovation, and a mix of office work and laboratory activities.

Salary development over time

salaries for an electronics engineer have shown a clear increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,600 SEK per month, while in 2023 it increased to 48 800, a rise of approximately 4.7%. In 2024, the average salary has continued to be 48 800, indicating a stabilization after the previous year's growth. The positive trend can largely be explained by sustained high demand for electronics engineers, especially in the private sector and technology-intensive industries. More employers are competing for talent, which drives up salaries, but the recent stagnation suggests the market has now reached equilibrium between supply and demand. The gender pay gap persists, with women earning on average 95% of men's salaries.

Electronics engineer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 48 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,900 SEK/month (male, public sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 66,400 SEK/month (male, private sector, research degree)
• Hourly wage: 293 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 49 200 SEK, women 46 700 SEK (women earn 95% of men's salaries)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and sector, with higher salaries generally in metropolitan areas and within the private sector.

Education and qualifications

To work as an electronics engineer, a university or master's degree in electronics, electrical engineering, or a similar technical field is usually required. Many employers also seek practical engineering experience, often through internships or thesis projects, as well as specialized knowledge in programming, measurement technology, or embedded systems. Further training and certifications can provide additional competitive advantages.

• Formal degree: Bachelor of Engineering (3 years) or Master of Science in Engineering (5 years) with specialization in electronics or electrical engineering
• Certifications: Courses in embedded systems, programming (C/C++), or project management
• Internship/Trainee: Strongly recommended during education
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility + special requirements in mathematics and physics
• Self-study: Online courses and self-study in new technologies are advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Electronics engineers are often offered competitive benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible working hours, and remote work options. Other common compensations include bonus programs, professional development, and sometimes company cars, especially in larger tech and industrial companies. Most employers also place great emphasis on further training and internal career development.

Competition and challenges

The demand for electronics engineers remains high, but competition for the most attractive positions can still be intense, especially in metropolitan regions and leading tech companies. The profession requires continuous skill development as technological shifts and new standards rapidly change the work content. The recruitment situation is characterized nationally by difficulties in finding the right skills, even as many leave the profession for new challenges. Ongoing learning and the ability to adapt to new technologies are crucial for long-term success.

Tips for those who want to become an electronics engineer

To succeed as an electronics engineer, it is good to have strong problem-solving skills and a genuine interest in technological development. It is recommended to deepen programming and electronics projects early on, preferably through hobby projects or internships. Precision and analytical thinking are important qualities, especially when troubleshooting and testing complex systems. Being communicative and able to collaborate in cross-functional teams facilitates daily work and career development. Staying updated on new technologies and standards provides competitive advantages, and proactive participation in industry forums or networks can open doors to exciting projects. Flexibility and curiosity about different technology areas make it easier to find one's niche and enjoy long-term career satisfaction.

Key facts about an electronics engineer

• Education level: Bachelor's or master's degree in electronics/electrical engineering
• Work environment: Technology-intensive, often combined office and lab environment
• Demand: Very high, with 564 job openings nationwide
• Typical work form: Full-time, often project-based and team-oriented
• Special skills: Programming, embedded systems, measurement technology

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an electronics engineer, there are good opportunities to advance to senior roles such as project manager, technical specialist, or development manager. Many choose to specialize further within specific technology areas like automation, IoT, or automotive industry, while others move into consultancy or product management. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, the job market remains very good, with ample opportunities and an unchanged demand over the next five years. The recruitment situation is paradoxical, as many leave the profession while there is a shortage of qualified workers, which benefits those who are flexible and willing to further their education.

Frequently asked questions about electronics engineering

• What does an electronics engineer earn?
  - An average monthly salary for an electronics engineer is 48 800, but the salary varies depending on experience, sector, and education level.
• How large is the salary difference between women and men?
  - Women earn on average 46 700 SEK and men 49 200 SEK, which means women earn 95% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become an electronics engineer?
  - Usually, a university or master's degree in electronics or electrical engineering.
• Are there many job openings for electronics engineers?
  - Yes, there are 564 job openings in the profession according to the latest data.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries in the profession?
  - The highest salary is 66,400 SEK (male, private sector, research degree) and the lowest is 38,900 SEK (male, public sector, pre-secondary education).
• What benefits are offered to electronics engineers?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, bonuses, and professional development.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The forecast indicates continued high demand and good employment opportunities even over the next five years.