Control engineer, machine

What does a Control Engineer in Mechanical Engineering do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A control engineer in mechanical engineering is responsible for ensuring that machines, components, and technical systems meet established requirements for quality, safety, and functionality. Tasks often include inspection, testing, and documentation of both new and existing machinery, as well as identifying and reporting deviations from standards or safety regulations. The role also involves close collaboration with designers, production engineers, and maintenance staff to solve technical problems and improve processes. The work environment can vary between workshop floors, field visits, and office work, which requires both practical skills and analytical thinking.

Salary Development Over Time

Salaries for control engineers in mechanical engineering have shown steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 41,500 SEK per month, increasing to 43 700 in 2023. The latest statistics from 2024 indicate an average salary of 45 300, representing an increase of approximately 9.1% over three years. This trend reflects ongoing demand for technical expertise and specialization within mechanical engineering, where increased requirements for quality assurance and efficient production drive salary levels. Although influenced by economic cycles and industry trends, technological development and the need for certified quality control have contributed to maintaining competitive salaries.

Control Engineer Machinery Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 45 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 37,000 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school education 3 years)
• Highest salary: 68,000 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, research education)
• Hourly wage: 272 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
• Women: 43 200 SEK/month (95 % of men's salary)
• Men: 45 600 SEK/month
• Regional differences: May occur depending on industry presence and demand

Education and Qualifications

The path to becoming a control engineer in mechanical engineering typically involves a university degree, often in mechanical engineering, quality technology, or similar. The role requires both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, and employers often seek experience from industry or specific certifications. Some employers may also require internships or trainee programs for recent graduates.

• Higher education: Bachelor's or master's degree in mechanical engineering, 3–5 years
• Certifications: Quality assurance, inspection authorizations
• Internship/trainee: Recommended for recent graduates
• Prerequisites: Mathematics, physics, and technology from high school
• Courses/further education: Opportunities for online courses and internal training

Common Benefits and Compensation

Control engineers in mechanical engineering are often offered competitive benefits such as pension schemes, wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and opportunities for skills development. Benefits may also include extra vacation days, bonus programs, or advantageous insurance policies, especially at larger employers within industry and public sector.

Competition and Challenges

The job market for control engineers in mechanical engineering is characterized by some competition, especially in regions with many technical companies and industries. Challenges often include staying updated with new standards, digitalization, and increasingly high demands for documentation and traceability. Technological changes and automation can lead to increased requirements for further training and specialization. At the same time, there are good opportunities for those who are flexible and willing to develop their skills, not least thanks to the technical breadth of the profession.

Tips for Aspiring Control Engineers in Mechanical Engineering

To succeed as a control engineer in mechanical engineering, it is good to combine analytical skills with precision and technical curiosity. Developing a strong eye for detail helps in quality review, while good communication skills facilitate collaboration with different professional groups. Flexibility and a willingness to learn new things are crucial, as technology and regulations constantly change. Actively seeking internships or trainee programs provides valuable industry experience and increases chances of a good start in the profession. A structured work approach and the ability to prioritize tasks make it easier to handle both routine and urgent inspections. Finally, having an interest in problem-solving and a desire to contribute to safe and efficient technical solutions is advantageous.

Key Facts about Control Engineer, Machinery

• Education level: Bachelor's or master's degree, 3–5 years
• Work environment: Combination of workshop, field, and office
• Typical work form: Project-based and independent work
• Demand: 564 job openings in spring 2024
• Special skills: Quality assurance, standards, and inspection methods

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years in the profession as a control engineer in mechanical engineering, opportunities exist to advance to roles such as quality manager, project manager, or specialist in inspection and certification. Competence in digitalization and automation increases attractiveness in the job market. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts for engineers and technicians in mechanical engineering, there is no precise assessment due to limited data, but the field is expected to remain relevant thanks to technological development and industry needs for quality assurance. The number of job openings, 564 in spring 2024, indicates good prospects for those seeking employment in the industry.

Frequently Asked Questions about Control Engineer, Machinery

• What is the average salary of a Control Engineer, machinery?
  - The average salary is 45 300 SEK per month in 2024.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn 43 200 SEK on average, while men earn 45 600 SEK, meaning women receive approximately 95 % of men's salaries.
• What is the salary range for the profession?
  - The lowest reported salary is 37,000 SEK and the highest is 68,000 SEK per month, depending on education, sector, and experience.
• What education is required to become a Control Engineer, machinery?
  - The most common is a university degree in mechanical engineering, often supplemented with certifications in quality assurance or inspection.
• What does the job market look like?
  - There are 564 job openings in spring 2024, indicating strong demand.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Attention to detail, analytical skills, and communication skills are highly valued.
• What benefits are common?
  - Pension schemes, wellness contributions, flexible working hours, and opportunities for skills development are common benefits.