Calculation manager, construction and civil engineering

What does a calculation manager in construction and civil engineering do? – Tasks and work environment

The calculation manager in construction and civil engineering is responsible for leading and quality-assuring the estimating work on major construction and infrastructure projects. The role involves preparing cost estimates, analyzing risks and opportunities, and coordinating the estimating process among different project teams. The calculation manager often acts as a central link between design, procurement, and management, ensuring that estimates are accurate, up-to-date, and aligned with client requirements and company business goals. The work environment is primarily office-based, but site visits to construction sites are regularly conducted to gather information and monitor project progress. The pace is often fast, requiring analytical skills and good communication abilities to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Salary development over time

The salary development for a calculation manager in construction and civil engineering has shown a clear increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 45,900 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 49 900 SEK, representing an approximate increase of 8.7%. In 2024, the salary continued to rise to 50 200 SEK, which is a more modest increase of 0.6% compared to the previous year. The sharp rise between 2022 and 2023 can be partly explained by increased demand for qualified calculation managers and a greater focus on cost control within the construction sector. The recent slowdown in salary growth suggests that the market has stabilized and supply and demand are now more balanced.

Calculation manager in construction and civil engineering salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 50 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 41,400 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school education, up to 2 years)
• Highest salary: 57,900 SEK/month (female, government sector, doctoral degree)
• Hourly wage: 302 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 92% of what men do (men: 51 200 SEK, women: 47 300 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary between counties and urban/rural areas, but no precise regional data is available

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a calculation manager in construction and civil engineering usually involves a university or engineering degree in construction, civil engineering, or economics. Experience from estimating work, project management, and a good understanding of all parts of the construction process are central qualifications. Many employers also require additional training or certifications in estimating, economics, or leadership.

• Formal degree: University or engineering degree in construction and civil engineering (3–5 years)
• Certifications: Courses in estimating, project management, or economics
• Internship/trainee: Internship during studies or trainee programs within the construction industry
• Prerequisites: Experience in estimating, construction projects, or leadership roles is often required
• Self-study: Opportunities to deepen knowledge in estimating software and industry standards via online courses

Common benefits and compensations

Calculation managers in construction and civil engineering are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexitime, and occupational health services. Company cars, bonus programs, and opportunities for skills development are also common, especially within larger companies and corporations. The work may also include extra vacation days and favorable insurance solutions.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as calculation manager in construction and civil engineering is considered moderate, with a balanced recruitment situation in the job market. Demand for calculation managers is expected to increase over the next five years, partly due to technological development and the need for advanced cost control in larger projects. A clear challenge is to stay updated on new digital tools and adapt quickly to changing regulations and project requirements. Many employers also value leadership skills and good communication abilities, as the role often involves management and collaboration across disciplines.

Tips for those wishing to become a calculation manager in construction and civil engineering

To succeed as a calculation manager, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a strong desire to develop. Good collaboration skills facilitate the estimation process in cooperation with project teams and other departments, and accuracy is crucial to ensure estimates are correct and sustainable over time. Being proactive and taking responsibility for your own learning, such as staying updated on new estimating tools and methods, provides a competitive advantage. Leadership and the ability to motivate and guide others are also important qualities, especially for advancing to managerial roles. Developing strong communication skills makes it easier to explain estimates and decision bases to both technical and economic stakeholders. Finally, patience and structured work habits are essential, as estimating often involves many details and long processes.

Key facts about calculation managers in construction and civil engineering

• Education level: University or engineering degree
• Work environment: Office-based with site visits
• Typical work form: Full-time, often project-based
• Demand: Moderate, but increasing over 5 years
• Special skills: Estimating, risk analysis, leadership

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a calculation manager in construction and civil engineering, opportunities often open to advance to higher managerial roles, such as project manager, business area manager, or specialist in estimating and risk management. Many also choose to broaden their expertise towards procurement, controlling, or business development. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, the demand for engineers and technicians in construction and civil engineering is expected to grow over the next five years, especially as technological development and automation increase the requirements for skills in estimating and cost management. Currently, there are 379 available jobs in the profession, indicating good opportunities for those seeking to advance in the field.

Common questions about calculation managers in construction and civil engineering

• What does a calculation manager in construction and civil engineering earn?
  - A calculation manager in construction and civil engineering has an average salary of 50 200 SEK/month.
• What education is required to become a calculation manager in construction and civil engineering?
  - Typically, a university or engineering degree in construction, civil engineering, or economics.
• Are there gender pay gaps for calculation managers?
  - Yes, women earn on average 92% of what men do in the profession.
• What are the future prospects for calculation managers in construction and civil engineering?
  - Demand is expected to increase over the next five years, with moderate job opportunities.
• What are common benefits for calculation managers?
  - Benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexitime, and company car are common.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a calculation manager in construction and civil engineering?
  - The highest salary is 57,900 SEK/month and the lowest is 41,400 SEK/month.
• How many job openings are there in the profession?
  - There are 379 available jobs for engineers and technicians in construction and civil engineering.