Control engineer, electronics

What does a control engineer in electronics do? – Tasks and work environment

A control engineer in electronics is responsible for planning, executing, and documenting technical inspections and checks of electronic systems and components. Tasks often include quality assurance, troubleshooting, testing, and verification of technical installations, both during production and in finished facilities. The control engineer works closely with technicians, project managers, and product developers to ensure that electronic systems meet internal and external requirements for functionality and safety. The work environment varies between laboratories, offices, and fieldwork, where inspections of industrial facilities or infrastructure projects may occur.

Salary development over time

The profession of control engineer in electronics has shown stable salary growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,600 SEK per month. The following year, the salary increased to 48 800 SEK, representing an increase of about 4.7%. This level has remained stable through 2024, with the average salary still at 48 800 SEK. The clear rise between 2022 and 2023 reflects increased demand for qualified technical competence in electronics, while the market has now stabilized. The salary level not changing in the past year may be due to supply and demand being in better balance, as well as collective agreements and labor market negotiations influencing salary development.

Control engineer electronics salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 48 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,900 SEK/month (male, public sector, pre-secondary education) / 41,600 SEK/month (female)
• Highest salary: 66,400 SEK/month (male, private sector, research education) / 49,300 SEK/month (female)
• Hourly wage (average): 293 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 49 200 SEK, women 46 700 SEK (women earn 95% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: No specific data available

Education and qualifications

To work as a control engineer in electronics, a university or master's degree in electrical engineering or a related field is usually required. In addition to formal education, practical experience in the industry is often sought, along with knowledge of quality assurance, measurement technology, and control systems. Certifications and specialized courses in electronics and safety can be advantageous, as well as a good understanding of industry-specific standards and regulations.

• Formal degree: University or master's degree (3–5 years) in electrical engineering or electronics
• Certifications: Courses in quality assurance, measurement technology, and safety
• Internship: Trainee programs or internships during studies are recommended
• Prerequisites: High school diploma with a technical focus
• Additional studies: Online courses or self-study in current standards and tools

Common benefits and compensations

Control engineers in electronics often have access to benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexitime, and remote work opportunities. Other common benefits include insurance, professional development, and sometimes bonus programs or performance-based compensation depending on the employer and sector.

Competition and challenges

The job market for control engineers in electronics is characterized by high demand but also recruitment difficulties, as many leave the profession or move on to other roles. There is a strong need for technical competence and experience, which means competition mainly involves attracting and retaining qualified personnel. At the same time, the role requires continuous updating of knowledge regarding new technologies and regulations, which can be a challenge for both recent graduates and experienced engineers. Digitalization and rapid technological development place high demands on flexibility and problem-solving skills within the profession.

Tips for aspiring control engineers in electronics

To succeed as a control engineer in electronics, it is helpful to have strong analytical skills and an eye for detail, making it easier to detect deviations in technical systems. Building a broad technical foundation through education and practical experience provides stability and confidence in the role. It is also important to be communicative, as the profession often involves collaboration with various professional groups and requires clear reporting of results. Curiosity and a desire to stay updated with new technologies and standards facilitate development in the profession. A problem-solving mindset combined with patience helps during troubleshooting and quality checks. Finally, accuracy and a structured working approach are crucial to ensure all inspections are performed correctly and according to requirements.

Key facts about control engineers in electronics

• Education level: University or master's degree
• Work environment: Varies between offices, laboratories, and fieldwork
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment according to the Swedish Public Employment Service
• Occupational group: Engineers and technicians in electrical engineering
• Typical employment type: Permanent full-time employment

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a control engineer in electronics, there are opportunities to advance to leadership roles such as technical manager, quality manager, or project manager within larger technology or industrial companies. Some choose to specialize in specific technical areas, such as automation systems or advanced measurement technology, which can lead to expert roles or consulting assignments. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, the labor market remains strong with many opportunities, and demand is expected to stay unchanged over five years. With 564 job openings in the profession, there are good chances for both recent graduates and experienced engineers to find employment.

Frequently asked questions about control engineers in electronics

• What does a control engineer in electronics earn?
  - The average salary is 48 800 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, sector, and education.
• What are the educational requirements for the profession?
  - Usually, a university or master's degree in electrical engineering or a related field is required.
• What are the gender differences in the profession?
  - Women earn on average 95% of what men do, with median salaries of 46 700 SEK for women and 49 200 SEK for men.
• What work environments are common?
  - The work environment varies between offices, laboratories, and fieldwork depending on tasks and employer.
• Are there good future prospects?
  - Yes, employment opportunities are plentiful, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries?
  - The highest salary is 66,400 SEK (male, private sector, research education), and the lowest is 38,900 SEK (male, public sector, pre-secondary education).
• How many job openings are available in the profession?
  - There are approximately 564 job openings for engineers and technicians in electrical engineering.