Communication technician

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

A communication technician is responsible for the installation, operation, and maintenance of communication and network solutions for companies and organizations. Tasks include troubleshooting networks, configuring switches and routers, ensuring operational reliability, and implementing new technical solutions within data communication. The role often involves collaboration with both internal and external stakeholders to meet the organization's needs for stable and secure communication. The work environment varies between office settings, server rooms, and sometimes fieldwork, requiring flexibility and the ability to handle both technical and practical challenges.

Salary development over time

The profession of communication technician has experienced steady salary increases in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 44,400 SEK per month, increasing to 45 900 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 48 100 SEK, which is an increase of approximately 8.3% over three years. This positive trend can be linked to increasing demand for skilled technicians in networks and data communication, as digitalization and security needs grow. The salary increase also reflects industry demands for higher competence levels and increased specialization. The shortage of experienced technicians further drives up wages, especially in regions with high competition for labor.

Communication technician salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 48 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 42,700 SEK/month (female, private sector employee)
• Highest salary: 53,800 SEK/month (male, private sector employee with post-secondary education of 3 years or more)
• Hourly wage (average): 289 SEK/hour
• Women’s salary as a percentage of men’s: 88%
• Gender differences: men 48800 SEK/month, women 43 000 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salary variations occur, with higher wages in metropolitan regions and where demand for technical skills is particularly high.

Education and qualifications

To work as a communication technician, a post-secondary education in network technology, computer engineering, or similar fields is usually required. Many employers also value certifications from leading providers and practical experience with network solutions. The educational path can vary, but technical programs at universities, vocational colleges, or through labor market training are common. Skills in both hardware and software, as well as an understanding of security and communication protocols, are highly meritorious.

• Post-secondary education: YH/KY or university, typically 2–3 years
• Certifications: Examples include Cisco (CCNA/CCNP), CompTIA Network+
• Internship: Often a mandatory part of the education
• Prerequisites: Basic IT skills and mathematics
• Courses/online: Opportunities to deepen knowledge via self-study and distance learning

Common benefits and compensations

Communication technicians are often offered competitive benefits beyond base salary. It is common with occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexitime, remote work options, and further training at the employer’s expense. Some employers also offer bonus programs, extra vacation days, and subsidized lunches.

Competition and challenges

The competition for roles as a communication technician varies depending on region and economic conditions. In metropolitan areas and larger workplaces, demand for experienced technicians is high, creating good opportunities for those with the right skills. At the same time, technological development presents challenges, as knowledge requirements change rapidly and employers seek increasingly specialized personnel. For those looking to establish themselves and develop within the profession, it is essential to stay updated on new technologies and security standards. The industry’s rapid development demands continuous further education and adaptability.

Tips for aspiring communication technicians

To succeed as a communication technician, it is beneficial to be analytical and possess strong problem-solving skills, as troubleshooting and network optimization are central to the work. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with colleagues and clients, especially when explaining technical solutions in an understandable way. Curiosity and a willingness to continually learn new technologies are crucial, given the fast pace of industry development. Precision is important for documenting and quality-assuring complex installations. Finally, resilience and the ability to prioritize tasks are valuable traits, especially during operational disruptions or when managing multiple projects simultaneously.

Key facts about communication technicians

• Education level: Post-secondary education, often 2–3 years
• Work environment: Office, server rooms, and sometimes fieldwork
• Demand: 179 job openings within the profession (May 2024)
• Gender distribution: Men dominate the profession, but the proportion of women is increasing
• Special skills: Certifications and experience in network security are advantageous

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a communication technician can advance to roles such as network architect, IT security specialist, or technical project manager. There are also opportunities to specialize in areas like cloud services or advanced network design. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, no precise assessment is made for the profession of communication technician, as it belongs to a broader occupational group. Nevertheless, the number of available positions indicates stable demand, especially for those with updated skills and certifications. Future prospects are influenced by ongoing digitalization, increased security requirements, and the need for robust communication solutions in both private and public sectors.

Frequently asked questions about communication technicians

• What is the average salary for a communication technician?
  - A communication technician has an average salary of 48 100 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development been for communication technicians?
  - Salaries have increased from 44,400 SEK (2022) to 48 100 SEK (2024), which is an increase of approximately 8.3%.
• What education is required to become a communication technician?
  - Post-secondary education in network technology, computer engineering, or similar, often 2–3 years, along with certifications.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, men earn on average 48800 SEK and women 43 000 SEK, which means women earn 88% of men's salaries.
• What is the job market like for communication technicians?
  - There are 179 job openings in the profession, with demand especially high in metropolitan regions.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Examples include occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexitime, remote work, and further training.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a communication technician?
  - The highest salary is 53,800 SEK (male, private sector employee), and the lowest is 42,700 SEK (female, private sector employee).