Circuit board designer

What does a circuit board designer do? – tasks and work environment

A circuit board designer is responsible for designing and developing electronic circuit boards for everything from consumer electronics to industrial systems. The work involves creating schematics, selecting components, laying out circuit boards, and ensuring they meet technical and regulatory requirements. Collaboration often occurs in project teams with other engineers and technicians, both within and outside the company. The work environment is typically office-based with some laboratory work, and the pace can vary depending on the project phase. The role also includes documentation, testing, and sometimes direct contact with clients to tailor solutions to specific needs.

Salary development over time

The salary of a circuit board designer has shown a stable and positive trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,600 SEK per month, which increased to 48 800 SEK in 2023 and has remained at the same level in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 4.7% over three years, with the largest change between 2022 and 2023. This development reflects an increased demand for skilled technicians in electronics and electrical engineering, while the market has stabilized over the past year. Salaries are also influenced by factors such as education level, experience, and sector. Despite some leveling off recently, the salary level for the profession remains high compared to many other technical and engineering roles.

Circuit board designer salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 48 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,900 SEK/month (men, public sector, pre-university education); 41,600 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 66,400 SEK/month (men, private sector, research degree); 49,300 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 293 SEK/hour
• Gender difference: Women earn 95 % of men's salary (49 200 SEK/month vs 46 700 SEK/month)
• Regional differences: Data on regional salary differences not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a circuit board designer, a higher technical education in electronics, electrical engineering, or a related field is usually required. Many employers seek a civil or university engineering degree, but there are also opportunities to advance through vocational higher education or equivalent training. Practical experience and specific knowledge of CAD for circuit board design are highly valued. Certifications and ongoing professional development are often advantageous.

• Formal degree: Civil or university engineer in electronics/electrical engineering (3–5 years)
• Vocational higher education: 2–3 years focusing on electronics or embedded systems
• Certifications: e.g., IPC CID/IPC CID+ for circuit board design
• Internship/trainee: Practical experience during education provides valuable skills
• Prerequisites: Mathematics, physics, and technology from high school
• Courses/online: Self-study in EDA tools and electronics

Common benefits and compensations

Circuit board designers are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, extra vacation days, wellness contributions, and opportunities for skills development through courses and conferences. Flexitime and remote work options are common, especially with larger employers. Some companies also offer bonus schemes, health insurance, and subsidized lunches.

Challenges and competition

The demand for circuit board designers remains high, but competition for the most attractive positions can be intense, especially in larger cities and tech clusters. The electronics field evolves rapidly, requiring continuous skills development and adaptation to new tools and standards. Staying updated on new technologies, materials, and manufacturing methods is a challenge. Projects often have tight deadlines and high quality standards, demanding both technical skill and the ability to work under pressure. Good communication skills are also essential for collaboration within organizations and with external partners.

Tips for aspiring circuit board designers

To succeed as a circuit board designer, it is helpful to combine technical curiosity with accuracy and problem-solving skills. Familiarity with CAD tools and electronics projects early on provides a practical advantage in education and work. Being organized facilitates handling complex projects and multiple tasks simultaneously. Good teamwork skills are important, as work often occurs in teams with other engineers and technicians. Keeping up with new standards and trends in electronics design requires initiative and self-study. Being communicative and attentive to clients’ and colleagues’ needs contributes to success in the role. Patience is also essential, as troubleshooting and testing can be time-consuming but are crucial for a good final result.

Key facts about circuit board designers

• Education level: Higher education or engineering degree, or vocational training
• Work environment: Office and electronics lab, often project-based work
• Demand: Great job opportunities, 564 available positions nationwide
• Gender distribution: Predominantly male, but the proportion of women is increasing
• Special skills: CAD tools for PCB design and knowledge of electronics standards

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a circuit board designer can advance to roles such as senior designer, project manager, or specialist in areas like EMC or production testing. Some choose to deepen their expertise in research and development, while others move into consulting or technical sales. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, job opportunities within the profession remain strong, with stable demand expected over the next five years. Despite some turnover, the job market is robust, and technological developments offer good opportunities for further education and specialization.

Frequently asked questions about circuit board designers

• What is the average salary of a circuit board designer?
  - The average salary is 48 800 SEK per month.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 95 % of men's salary (46 700 SEK/month compared to 49 200 SEK/month).
• What education is required to become a circuit board designer?
  - Usually, a university or college degree in electronics or electrical engineering, or vocational higher education.
• What is the job market like for circuit board designers?
  - Opportunities are plentiful with many available positions and stable demand according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
• What is the highest salary for a circuit board designer?
  - The highest reported salary is 66,400 SEK for men and 49,300 SEK for women.
• What does a circuit board designer do on a daily basis?
  - The work involves designing and laying out circuit boards, selecting components, testing, and documentation.
• What personal qualities are important in this profession?
  - Accuracy, problem-solving skills, teamwork, and technical curiosity are especially valuable.