Quality engineer, telecommunications

What does a Quality Engineer in Telecommunications do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Quality Engineer in telecommunications works to ensure that technical systems, products, and services within the telecom sector meet high standards of quality and safety. Tasks often include process analysis, development and implementation of quality standards, as well as testing and troubleshooting networks and equipment. The work is conducted in close collaboration with development engineers, production staff, and sometimes customers, to identify areas for improvement and prevent quality issues. The work environment is usually office-based with elements of laboratory or field work, especially during major network upgrades or the launch of new telecom services.

Salary Development Over Time

The salary development for Quality Engineers in telecommunications has been stable in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,600 SEK per month, which increased to 48 800 SEK in 2023 and has since remained at the same level in 2024. This represents an increase of about 4.7% between 2022 and 2023, followed by a plateau. This trend indicates that the market has reached a balance where demand and supply of qualified Quality Engineers are in equilibrium. The salary increase during 2022–2023 can be linked to increased demand for telecom expertise amid technological advances in 5G and digitalization, while the stable level thereafter reflects a mature job market where further salary growth is mainly driven by specialist skills or managerial roles.

Quality Engineer in Telecommunications Salary – Complete Overview

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

Education and Qualifications

The path to becoming a Quality Engineer in telecommunications typically involves a university or master's degree in electrical engineering, telecommunications, or similar technical fields. Success requires both formal education and practical experience with telecom systems, quality work, and testing methodologies. Additional certifications in quality assurance or telecommunications can be advantageous, and the industry also values experience in project management and working in international environments.

• Formal degree: University or master's degree (3–5 years) in electrical engineering, telecommunications, or equivalent
• Certifications: Quality assurance (e.g., Six Sigma, ISO 9001) and telecom-specific certificates
• Internship/Trainee: Common during studies or as an introduction to the profession
• Prerequisites: Good knowledge of mathematics, technology, and IT
• Advice for choosing: Select programs with a mix of theory and practical components related to telecom and quality technology

Common Benefits and Compensation

Quality Engineers in telecommunications are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowances, remote work options, and flexible working hours. Other common compensations include extra vacation days, skill development, and sometimes bonus schemes linked to project goals or quality outcomes. Larger companies may also provide insurance packages and subsidized lunches.

Competition and Challenges

The competition for qualified Quality Engineers in telecommunications is moderate, but there is a recruitment challenge due to a shortage of specialized skills. Rapid technological development in the industry means employers seek candidates with current knowledge of new standards and systems. At the same time, many leave the profession for other career paths, increasing demand for new talents. The main challenge lies in continuous further education and staying updated on new technologies, while the work environment can sometimes be stressful with tight deadlines and high demands for precision.

Tips for Aspiring Quality Engineers in Telecommunications

To succeed as a Quality Engineer in telecommunications, it is beneficial to combine technical curiosity with a structured work approach. Being analytical helps in troubleshooting complex systems, while meticulousness is crucial for maintaining high quality standards. Good communication skills are important, as the role often involves collaboration with colleagues from different technical areas and sometimes international teams. A genuine interest in technology and a willingness to learn new things facilitate adaptation to the industry's rapid development. Being solution-oriented and patient are also valuable traits, especially during long investigations or projects with high documentation requirements. Proactively participating in further training and industry events can strengthen networks and career opportunities.

Key Facts About Quality Engineers in Telecommunications

• Education level: University or master's degree (3–5 years)
• Work environment: Office-based with elements of laboratory and field work
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment and low unemployment
• Special skills: Quality assurance, telecom standards, testing methodologies
• Number of job openings: 564 in the field (May 2024)

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years as a Quality Engineer in telecommunications, career advancement can lead to roles such as Quality Manager, Process Developer, or Project Manager within larger tech or telecom companies. Some choose to specialize further in areas like test management, certification, or technical auditing. Employment forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicate that opportunities for engineers and technicians in electrical engineering will remain strong, with demand expected to stay stable over the next five years. Recruitment difficulties are reported, suggesting that specialized expertise will continue to be highly sought after. The ongoing digitalization and new communication standards like 5G and IoT open up more specialized roles in the field.

Frequently Asked Questions about Quality Engineers in Telecommunications

• What does a Quality Engineer in telecommunications earn?
  - The average salary is 48 800 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of approximately 293 SEK.
• What education is required to become a Quality Engineer in telecommunications?
  - A university or master's degree in electrical engineering, telecommunications, or similar technical fields.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn on average 46 700 SEK and men 49 200 SEK, which means women earn approximately 95 % of men's salaries.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The job market is considered very good, with great opportunities and skill shortages in certain areas.
• What are the tasks of a Quality Engineer in telecommunications?
  - Tasks include quality assurance, testing, process development, and improvement work of telecom systems and services.
• What is the highest and lowest salary in the profession?
  - The highest salary is 66,400 SEK and the lowest is 38,900 SEK per month.
• How many job openings are available in the field?
  - There are 564 job openings in the engineering and technical field of electrical engineering.