What does an IT developer do? – Tasks and work environment
IT developers are responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining software and systems used across various industries. Tasks include programming, system integration, testing, and troubleshooting applications. The role often involves collaboration with other developers, project managers, and business representatives to identify needs and create tailored solutions. The work environment is typically office-based, but remote work and flexible hours have become increasingly common in the profession. IT developers often work in agile teams where quick adaptation and problem-solving are central aspects of daily life.
Salary development over time
Salaries for IT developers have shown a steady increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 50,700 SEK per month, rising to 52 800 SEK in 2023 and further to 54 900 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to a total increase of approximately 8.3% over the period. Factors driving salary increases include the ongoing digitalization of society, high demand for skills, and technological advancements that require new competencies. Despite the broad availability of education, there remains a shortage of experienced developers, which further pushes up salaries in the field.
IT developer salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 54 900 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 40,000 SEK/month (female, public sector, pre-university education)
- Highest salary: 61,600 SEK/month (male, private sector, postgraduate education)
- Hourly wage (average): 330 SEK/hour
- Women: 52 700 SEK/month
- Men: 55 600 SEK/month
- Women earn: 95% of what men do
Many IT developers have the opportunity to work with groundbreaking technology long before it reaches the market, making the profession especially exciting for those who want to be at the forefront of technology.
Education and qualifications
The path to becoming an IT developer usually involves a university or college degree in computer science, systems science, or similar fields. Many employers also value certifications, practical experience, and current technical knowledge. Self-studies and participation in online courses are common, especially for those who want to stay updated with the latest programming languages and frameworks.
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science/system science (3 years)
- Vocational college education in programming/system development (2–3 years)
- Certifications in relevant technologies (e.g., AWS, Azure, Java, .NET)
- Internships or trainee programs at IT companies
- Strong problem-solving skills and logical thinking
- Self-studies and participation in online courses
Common benefits and compensations
IT developers are often offered generous benefits beyond base salary. Common perks include occupational pension, wellness allowance, remote work options, flexible hours, and opportunities for skills development. Some employers also offer bonus programs, private health insurance, and access to modern technical equipment and tools.
Competition and challenges
The competition among IT developers remains high, but demand for qualified labor exceeds the market supply. There is a particular shortage of experienced developers within certain technologies and frameworks, which can make it easier for those with the right skills to find employment. At the same time, a paradoxical recruitment situation exists where many leave the profession, further complicating hiring for employers. The rapid pace of technological development requires continuous skills upgrading and the ability to quickly adapt to new solutions and tools.
Tips for those who want to become an IT developer
To succeed as an IT developer, it’s good to combine curiosity with perseverance and analytical skills. Building a broad technical foundation while specializing in one or more programming languages increases chances of employment. Communication skills are important, as much of the work is done in teams and often involves close dialogue with clients or users. Staying updated through self-studies and networking contributes to long-term success, especially in an industry where change is constant. Problem-solving ability and a structured working approach facilitate both daily tasks and complex projects. Last but not least, it pays to seek internships or summer jobs early, as work experience is highly valued by employers.
Key facts about IT developers
- Educational level: University or vocational college education
- Work environment: Office-based, often with remote work options
- Demand: Very high, especially for experienced developers
- Typical work form: Full-time, often in agile teams
- Special skills: Programming languages, system development, cloud services
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession, an IT developer can advance to roles such as system architect, technical project manager, or specialist in areas like AI, cybersecurity, or cloud services. The employment agency’s forecasts show that opportunities within software and system development are expected to remain large, with unchanged demand over the next five years. Despite the wide range of educational options, challenges in recruiting experienced developers persist, making the job market very favorable for those with the right skills. In May 2024, there were 179 job openings in the field.
Frequently asked questions about IT developers
- What does an IT developer earn?
- The average salary for an IT developer is 54 900 SEK per month.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn 95% of what men do in the profession.
- What education is required to become an IT developer?
- Typically, a university or college education in IT, but certifications and self-study are also valuable.
- What is the job market like for IT developers?
- Demand is very high, and projections indicate that opportunities will remain strong in the coming years.
- What are the most common tasks for an IT developer?
- Tasks include programming, system development, troubleshooting, and collaboration in agile teams.
- What is the lowest and highest salary for an IT developer?
- The lowest salary is 40,000 SEK/month and the highest is 61,600 SEK/month.
- Is remote work possible as an IT developer?
- Yes, remote work opportunities are common in the profession.
