Communication electrician

What does a communication electrician do? – Tasks and work environment

A communication electrician works with the installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of communication systems, such as data networks, fiber optics, alarm systems, and telephony. Tasks also include cable routing, connecting technical equipment, and testing signals to ensure operational reliability. The work often takes place in varied environments, from office buildings and industrial sites to residences and public facilities. The job can involve both independent assignments and collaboration with other trades within electrical and technical fields, where precision and safety awareness are crucial. Flexibility is required as workplaces can change daily, and tasks may sometimes be performed at heights or in confined spaces.

Salary development over time

The salary for communication electricians has shown a clear positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 34,100 SEK per month, which increased to 34 700 in 2023 and reached 38 100 in 2024. This corresponds to a salary increase of approximately 12% over the period. Contributing factors include ongoing digitalization, increased demand for advanced communication solutions, and a growing need for specialized technical skills. This trend is especially evident in metropolitan regions, where larger projects and technological development drive up wages. The salary growth also reflects a market with high demand for qualified communication electricians, with employers competing for talent.

Communication electrician salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 38 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,100 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 47,800 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 229 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 34,100 SEK, men 38 300 SEK (women 89% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salaries are generally higher in metropolitan regions where demand is greatest

Education and qualifications

To work as a communication electrician, a high school diploma in the Electrical and Energy Program with specialization in data technology or electrical engineering is typically required. After completing the education, an apprenticeship period is often undertaken to gain practical experience. Many employers prefer candidates with certifications or further training in specific technical areas, such as fiber optics or alarm systems. Ongoing education and specialization in the workplace are often necessary for working with more advanced systems.

• High school education: Electrical and Energy Program (3 years)
• Apprenticeship: 1–2 years of practical experience under supervision
• Certifications: For example, in fiber optics, alarm systems, or networks
• Further education: Courses in new technology and safety
• Prerequisites: Interest in technology, mathematics, and problem-solving

Common benefits and compensations

Communication electricians are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowances, and work clothing. Travel between workplaces, per diems, and overtime pay are common, especially for projects outside the home region. Some employers also provide tool allowances, training grants, and opportunities for further education in new technical areas.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a communication electrician is relatively low, as the demand for skills remains strong. At the same time, there are challenges in recruitment—many leave the profession, and few new ones are trained quickly enough. The technological development demands continuous further training, and employers often seek individuals with broad technical competence and experience with new technology. Regional differences exist, with better opportunities in larger cities and expanding regions. To meet future needs, professionals must be prepared to adapt to new working methods and technologies.

Tips for those wanting to become a communication electrician

To succeed as a communication electrician, it is good to develop curiosity for technology and an interest in problem-solving early on. Good teamwork skills are highly valuable, as many tasks are performed in teams with other professionals. Accuracy and responsibility are crucial for safe working and delivering high-quality installations. Flexibility and the ability to quickly familiarize oneself with new systems are important qualities, especially as technology evolves rapidly. Taking advantage of internship opportunities during education to build experience is recommended. Continuously furthering education, such as through certifications or industry courses, provides a competitive edge. Finally, it is important to take initiative and stay updated on new trends in communication technology.

Key facts about communication electricians

• Educational level: High school diploma + apprenticeship period
• Work environment: Varies – both indoors and outdoors, often at different workplaces
• Demand: Very high, with 481 available jobs nationwide
• Special skills: Fiber optics, alarm systems, data networks, troubleshooting
• Career opportunities: Possibility for specialization and further education

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a communication electrician can advance to supervisory roles, project management, or technical specialist positions in areas such as fiber installation or security systems. Some choose to further their education to become engineers in electronics or network technology. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicate that job opportunities are abundant and expected to remain stable over the next five years. The demand for the profession is particularly high in installation, operation, and maintenance, where technological development drives the need for new skills. The recruitment situation is characterized by difficulties in finding qualified workers, which creates good prospects for both new and experienced communication electricians.

Frequently asked questions about communication electricians

• What is the average salary of a communication electrician?
  - A communication electrician has an average salary of 38 100 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn an average of 38 300 SEK and women 34,100 SEK, which means women earn approximately 89% of men's salaries.
• What is the job market like for communication electricians?
  - The job market is very strong with 481 available jobs nationwide and good future prospects according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
• What education is required to become a communication electrician?
  - The Electrical and Energy Program at high school with specialization in data technology or electrical engineering, along with an apprenticeship period, is most common.
• How has the salary development looked over time?
  - Over three years, the average salary has increased from 34,100 SEK to 38 100, corresponding to approximately 12%.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries are often higher in metropolitan regions where demand is greatest.
• What career opportunities are available after a few years?
  - Opportunities include becoming a supervisor, project manager, or specializing in fiber, alarm systems, or network technology.