Control engineer, telecommunications

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

A control engineer in telecommunications is responsible for monitoring, testing, and quality assurance of technical systems and infrastructures within the telecom sector. Tasks often include troubleshooting, network inspections, performance analysis, and ensuring that installations meet applicable standards and requirements. The role requires precision and technical expertise, as it often involves identifying and fixing complex faults in advanced communication systems. The work environment can vary between office work, laboratory settings, and fieldwork at facilities, demanding flexibility and problem-solving skills.

Salary development over time

The salary for a control engineer in telecommunications has shown stable growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,600 SEK per month, increasing to 48 800 SEK in 2023 and remaining at the same level in 2024. The total increase from 2022 to 2023 is about 4.7%, with no change in the last year. This growth reflects a continued strong demand for technical competence in telecommunications, alongside general salary trends in engineering professions. Despite some stagnation recently, salaries are expected to remain competitive due to technological advancements and the increased need for qualified engineers in the telecom sector.

Control engineer in telecommunications salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 48 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,900 SEK/month (male, public sector, pre-university education)
• Lowest salary (female): 41,600 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 66,400 SEK/month (male, private sector, doctoral degree)
• Highest salary (female): 49,300 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 293 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 95% of what men do (men: 49 200 SEK, women: 46 700 SEK)

Education and qualifications

To work as a control engineer in telecommunications, a university or master's degree in electrical engineering, telecommunications, or related technical fields is generally required. Many employers also seek specific certifications or experience with advanced communication systems. Internships or trainee programs are common ways to build the necessary professional experience and technical understanding.

• Formal degree: Bachelor's or master's degree in electrical engineering/telecommunications (3–5 years)
• Certifications: Examples include Cisco, Juniper, or similar network certifications
• Internships: Often through trainee programs or internships during studies
• Prerequisites: Basic competence in mathematics and physics
• Courses/continuing education: Opportunities for further training in networks, security, and system analysis

Common benefits and compensations

Control engineers in telecommunications often have access to benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, and flexible hours. Other common compensations may include bonus agreements, further training at the employer’s expense, and access to technical equipment and mobile phones. Larger companies may also offer health insurance and remote work options.

Competition and challenges

The profession as a control engineer in telecommunications is characterized by competition for the most attractive positions, especially in larger cities and tech-intensive regions. At the same time, there is a high national demand for the expertise, reducing the risk of unemployment. One of the biggest challenges is staying updated with rapid technological developments and adapting to new standards and systems. Recruitment difficulties occur as many leave the profession, while high technical specialization is required. Maintaining a good balance between practical experience and theoretical knowledge is also crucial for long-term success in the role.

Tips for those who want to become control engineers in telecommunications

To succeed as a control engineer in telecommunications, it is good to have analytical skills and an interest in technological development. Being meticulous facilitates troubleshooting and quality control, while teamwork skills are important since the work often takes place in teams. It is recommended to gain practical experience early through summer jobs or internships in the telecom sector, as well as actively seeking certifications that strengthen your profile. A problem-solving mindset helps with complex technical challenges, and the ability to quickly absorb new knowledge is valuable as new standards and technologies are constantly introduced. Showing initiative and willingness to develop within the profession also opens up more career opportunities.

Key facts about control engineers in telecommunications

• Education level: Bachelor's or master's degree (3–5 years)
• Work environment: Varies between office, laboratory, and field
• Demand: Large opportunities for nationwide employment
• Number of job openings: 564 within the profession
• Gender distribution: Women earn 95% of men's salaries in the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a control engineer in telecommunications, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as project manager, technical specialist, or head of quality and testing departments. Some choose to broaden their skills toward system architecture or technical sales. The employment agency’s forecasts show that opportunities for engineers and technicians in electrical engineering are large, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over five years. The recruitment situation is characterized by a shortage of qualified labor, providing good career prospects for those who are well-educated and technically up-to-date. The role also offers opportunities to work internationally, as demand for telecom expertise is global.

Frequently asked questions about control engineers in telecommunications

• What does a control engineer in telecommunications earn?
  - The average salary is 48 800 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What education is required to become a control engineer in telecommunications?
  - A university or master's degree in electrical engineering, telecommunications, or similar field is recommended.
• Are there gender differences in salaries for control engineers in telecommunications?
  - Yes, women earn approximately 95% of what men do in the profession.
• What is the job market like for control engineers in telecommunications?
  - Opportunities are considered large nationwide, and demand is expected to remain unchanged in the coming years.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for the profession?
  - The highest salary is 66,400 SEK and the lowest 38,900 SEK per month, depending on education, sector, and experience.
• What benefits are common for control engineers in telecommunications?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible hours, and sometimes health insurance.
• How can one develop further in their career?
  - There are opportunities to advance to specialist roles, project management, or managerial positions, as well as to work internationally.