Quality engineer, electronics

What does a Quality Engineer in electronics do? – Tasks and work environment

A quality engineer in electronics is responsible for ensuring that products and processes within the electronics industry meet both internal and external quality standards. Tasks include developing, implementing, and following up on quality routines, analyzing measurement data, resolving quality issues, and collaborating with production and development teams to drive improvement initiatives. The role often involves conducting audits, liaising with suppliers, and documenting quality processes. The work environment is usually technically advanced and can be based in an office, laboratory, or near production facilities, depending on the company's focus.

Salary development over time

The salary for a quality engineer in electronics has shown steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,600 SEK per month. In 2023, the average salary increased to 48 800 SEK, corresponding to approximately 4.7% growth. Between 2023 and 2024, the salary has remained unchanged at 48 800 SEK. This development reflects a continued strong demand for qualified engineers in electronics, with inflation and market requirements contributing to salary adjustments. The industry is characterized by technological advancement and high demand, generally leading to competitive salaries for the profession.

Quality Engineer, electronics salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 48 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,900 SEK/month (men), 41,600 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 66,400 SEK/month (men), 49,300 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 293 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 95% of what men do (46 700 SEK vs. 49 200 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data on regional salary differences not specified

Education and qualifications

To work as a quality engineer in electronics, a technical university or master's degree in electrical engineering or a related field is typically required. Many employers also seek experience in quality work and knowledge of standards such as ISO 9001. Internships or trainee positions within the electronics industry are often advantageous and can provide necessary industry insights. Further education and certifications in quality management can enhance job prospects.

• Formal degree: Bachelor's or master's in electrical engineering (3–5 years)
• Certifications: Examples include ISO 9001, Six Sigma, or similar
• Internship: Recommended during or after studies
• Prerequisites: Mathematics and technology at upper secondary level
• Further education: Courses in quality technology and management systems

Common benefits and compensations

Quality engineers in electronics are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible working hours, and remote work options. Individual salary setting, professional development, and sometimes bonus programs linked to project goals or quality outcomes are also common. Business trips and further training are regularly included, especially in larger companies with international operations.

Competition and challenges

The profession of a quality engineer in electronics generally offers good employment opportunities, but competition for the most attractive positions can be high. Technological development requires continuous skills upgrading and the ability to quickly adapt to new standards and processes. A challenge is balancing quality requirements with production goals and time pressures. The shortage of experienced quality engineers means employers sometimes struggle to recruit the right expertise, especially for specialist roles. The work environment can be challenging, with many contacts and high expectations for problem-solving skills.

Tips for aspiring quality engineers in electronics

To succeed as a quality engineer in electronics, having both technical curiosity and an analytical mindset is beneficial. Precision is crucial for detecting and preventing quality issues, while communication skills help drive improvement efforts across departments. Being solution-oriented facilitates handling complex problems swiftly. Engagement in industry organizations and networks can provide valuable contacts and insights. Keeping up-to-date with new standards and methods, and being flexible with changes in technology and work processes, is also important. Finally, patience and perseverance are key qualities, as quality work is often a long-term commitment.

Key facts about Quality Engineer, electronics

• Educational level: Bachelor's or master's in electrical engineering
• Typical work environment: Office, laboratory, or production
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationally
• Typical work format: Full-time, often project-based
• Special skills: Quality management systems, standardization work

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a quality engineer in electronics, it is common to advance to roles such as quality manager, project leader for quality development, or specialist in certification and auditing. Other career options include working as a supplier quality engineer or process developer. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, job opportunities in the profession remain strong, with demand expected to stay unchanged over the next five years. The recruitment situation is characterized by difficulties in finding the right competence, making experienced quality engineers highly sought after. For those continuously developing their skills, there are good opportunities for advancement and specialization.

Frequently asked questions about Quality Engineer, electronics

• What does a Quality Engineer, electronics earn?
  - The average salary is 48 800 SEK per month.
• What do salary differences between men and women look like?
  - Men earn an average of 49 200 SEK, women 46 700 SEK, which means women earn 95% of men's salaries.
• What is required to become a quality engineer in electronics?
  - A university or master's degree in electrical engineering and experience with quality work and relevant certifications.
• What benefits are common?
  - Occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible working hours, professional development, and sometimes bonus programs.
• What is the job market like?
  - Opportunities for employment are plentiful and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries in the profession?
  - Highest salary: 66,400 SEK (men), 49,300 SEK (women). Lowest salary: 38,900 SEK (men), 41,600 SEK (women).
• What does a typical workday look like?
  - The workday often includes quality inspections, analysis, meetings with various departments, and improvement work.