Designer (telecommunications), university engineer

What does a telecommunications engineer, university engineer, do? – Tasks and work environment

A telecommunications engineer with a university engineer degree is responsible for developing, designing, and improving technical solutions for communication systems. Tasks often include network construction, installation and optimization of telecommunications equipment, as well as troubleshooting technical faults. Collaboration typically occurs with project managers, technicians, and other engineers in both small and large projects. The work environment is mainly office-based but may also involve visits to facilities and workplaces for installation or troubleshooting. Flexibility and the ability to work with advanced technology are central qualities in the profession.

Salary development over time

The salary for a telecommunications engineer with a university degree has shown stable growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,600 SEK per month. In 2023, an increase was noted to 48 800, representing a salary improvement of approximately 4.7%. Between 2023 and 2024, the average salary remained at 48 800, indicating that the salary level stabilized after the previous year's increase. This development reflects a strong demand for expertise in the area, driven by technological development and digitalization. However, the pace of salary increases has plateaued, which may indicate some maturity in the salary formation within the profession and that the job market has reached an equilibrium between supply and demand.

Telecommunications engineer, university engineer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 48 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (men): 38,900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (women): 41,600 SEK/month
• Highest salary (men): 66,400 SEK/month
• Highest salary (women): 49,300 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 293 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 95% of what men do (49 200 SEK for men, 46 700 SEK for women)

Education and qualifications

To work as a telecommunications engineer, a university engineer degree in electrical engineering, telecommunications, or related technical fields is usually required. In addition to formal education, experience with project work and knowledge of modern communication systems are valued. Internships and certifications can increase employment opportunities and provide a deeper understanding of the profession's demands.

• Formal degree: University engineer in electrical engineering/telecommunications (3 years)
• Certifications: Courses in network technology, project management, or security
• Internships: Recommended during studies for industry experience
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility and knowledge of mathematics, physics, and technology
• Tips for choosing: Select programs focusing on digital communication and modern solutions

Common benefits and compensations

Telecommunications engineers are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, occupational pension, flexible working hours, and opportunities for remote work. Other common compensations include skills development, extra vacation days, and bonuses for project delivery or company profits. Benefits vary depending on employer and sector.

Competition and challenges

The profession is characterized by good employment prospects, but competition can be intense for the most attractive positions and employers. Rapid technological development demands continuous training and adaptability. The recruitment situation is described as paradoxical: there are both difficulties in finding the right competence and a steady outflow of experienced professionals. The ability to work in teams, solve complex problems, and quickly learn new technologies is crucial for success and job satisfaction.

Tips for those who want to become a telecommunications engineer, university engineer

To succeed as a telecommunications engineer, university engineer, it is beneficial to have analytical thinking and be precise already during education to build a solid technical foundation. Engagement in project work and internships provide valuable insights into industry demands and increase employability. Problem-solving skills are central, so challenging oneself with complex technical tasks and staying updated on new technologies is wise. Communication skills are important for collaboration and explaining technical solutions to clients and colleagues. Being flexible and open to change facilitates handling new work methods and rapid technological shifts. Finally, building a professional network during studies is important, as contacts often lead to internships and employment.

Key facts about telecommunications engineer, university engineer

• Education level: University engineer degree (3 years)
• Work environment: Office-based with elements of fieldwork
• Demand: Large opportunities for work nationally
• Gender distribution: Women earn 95% of men's salary
• Work form: Project-based team work

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, opportunities open to advance to roles such as project manager, technical specialist, or consultant within telecommunications. Many choose to specialize further in areas such as network security, IoT, or 5G development. According to the Employment Service, the job market for engineers and technicians in electrical engineering remains strong, with good opportunities and unchanged demand over the next five years. The recruitment situation is characterized by difficulties in finding the right skills, benefiting those who are well-educated and updated in the field. The broad work area and technological development make the profession offer good future prospects and career opportunities.

Common questions about telecommunications engineer, university engineer

• What does a telecommunications engineer, university engineer, earn?
  - The average salary is 48 800 SEK per month. Men earn on average 49 200 SEK and women 46 700 SEK.
• What education is required to become a telecommunications engineer?
  - A university engineer degree in electrical engineering or telecommunications is required, which corresponds to three years of study.
• What is the job market like for telecommunications engineers?
  - Demand is high and job opportunities are considered good according to the Employment Service.
• What are the most common job tasks?
  - Design, development, and optimization of communication systems as well as troubleshooting and project management.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 95% of what men do within the profession.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Common next steps include roles such as project manager, technical specialist, or consultant.
• What are the lowest and highest salaries in the profession?
  - The lowest salary is 38,900 SEK (men) and 41,600 SEK (women), the highest is 66,400 SEK (men) and 49,300 SEK (women).