Cable operator, installation low current

What does a cable operator in low-voltage installation do? – Tasks and work environment

A cable operator specializing in low-voltage installation primarily works with pulling, connecting, and installing low-voltage cables for various electrical and communication systems. Tasks include installing and troubleshooting network cables, alarm systems, telecommunication and data installations, and fiber optics. The work is often performed in newly built or existing properties, both in the private and public sectors. The work environment can range from technical rooms and offices to construction sites, requiring safety routines and precision. Collaboration with electricians, builders, and other technicians is common.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for cable operators in low-voltage installation has shown a clear upward trend. In 2022, the average salary was 34,100 SEK per month. The following year, 2023, the average increased to 34 700 SEK, representing a growth of approximately 1.8%. The most significant increase occurred between 2023 and 2024, when the average rose to 38 100 SEK, an increase of over 9.8%. This positive development can be partly explained by increased demand for skilled installers as digital infrastructure and smart systems expand in properties. At the same time, recruitment difficulties and retirements are pushing wages higher within the profession.

Cable operator in low-voltage installation salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 38 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,100 SEK/month (women), 35,600 SEK/month (men)
• Highest salary: 47,800 SEK/month (men), 35,700 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 229 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 89% of what men do
• Regional differences: Variations exist, but exact levels depend on labor market and demand

Education and qualifications

To work as a cable operator in low-voltage installation, a high school education within the electrical and energy program is usually required, with specialization in electrical engineering or similar. Post-secondary education, certifications, and industry-specific courses can be advantageous and increase employment and salary prospects. Practical experience and skills in interpreting drawings and electrical schematics are highly valued by employers.

• Formal education: Electrical and energy program (3 years), specialization in electrical engineering
• Certifications: Industry-specific certificates for low-voltage installations, e.g., fiber optics
• Internship: Workplace-based learning (APL) during education
• Further training: Courses in network technology, safety, and automation
• Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of mathematics and technology

Common benefits and compensations

The profession often offers attractive benefits such as wellness allowances, occupational pension, work clothing, and tools allowances. Opportunities for further education and certification through the employer are available, as well as compensation for unsociable hours during on-call or standby duties. In some cases, access to a service vehicle and favorable insurance coverage is provided.

Competitions and challenges

Despite the great opportunities for work within installation, operation, and maintenance of low-voltage networks, there is a paradoxical recruitment situation. There is a significant need for competent cable operators, while many leave the profession, contributing to recruitment difficulties. Competition for the most attractive positions can be high in metropolitan areas, while the shortage of staff is more noticeable in smaller towns. Technical changes and digitalization require continuous further training to stay updated with the latest standards and products. Physical strain and demands for precision are other challenges that place high requirements on the professional.

Tips for those who want to become a cable operator in low-voltage installation

To succeed as a cable operator in low-voltage installation, it is good to have an interest in technology and curiosity about how different systems work. A careful and structured personality facilitates installation and troubleshooting, where small mistakes can have big consequences. Being flexible and able to adapt to varying work environments and tasks is an advantage, especially since the job often involves both indoor and outdoor work. Good teamwork skills are important as the work is done in teams with other trades, while independence and initiative are required to solve problems on your own. Keeping up-to-date with technological developments and regulations through courses or industry literature is also a way to strengthen your position in the job market.

Key facts about a cable operator in low-voltage installation

• Education level: High school diploma in electrical and energy, often supplemented with certification
• Work environment: Varied, both indoors and outdoors, sometimes on construction sites
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment, especially for experienced and certified individuals
• Typical work form: Full-time, sometimes shifts or on-call
• Special skills: Fiber optics, alarm systems, and network technology are advantageous

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, opportunities exist to advance to more specialized roles such as lead installer, project manager, or technical consultant in the low-voltage field. Some choose to further educate themselves in network technology or automation, which can lead to supervisory or training positions. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, the opportunities for employment are large, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, indicating good future prospects for both new graduates and experienced cable operators. Currently, there are 481 job openings in the field, underscoring the need for competence in the area.

Frequently asked questions about a cable operator in low-voltage installation

• What does a cable operator in low-voltage installation earn?
  - The average salary is 38 100 SEK per month, with variations depending on gender, experience, and region.
• What education is required to become a cable operator in low-voltage installation?
  - High school education within the electrical and energy program, preferably supplemented with certification in low-voltage systems or fiber optics.
• What is the work environment like for cable operators?
  - It is varied and can include everything from office environments to construction sites, often with safety routines required.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 89% of what men do within the profession.
• What career opportunities are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Opportunities exist to advance to roles such as lead installer, project manager, or technical consultant.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The outlook remains positive with great opportunities for employment and unchanged demand over the next five years.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for the profession?
  - The highest salary is 47,800 SEK/month (men), and the lowest is 34,100 SEK/month (women).