Quality technician, telecommunications

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

A Quality Technician in telecommunications is primarily responsible for ensuring and improving the quality of technical systems and networks used for communication. Tasks often include monitoring, troubleshooting, and optimizing telecommunications equipment, as well as documenting test results and corrective actions. The role involves collaboration with technical teams, suppliers, and sometimes customer contact to identify and address quality issues. The work environment is often technically advanced, involving both office work and field operations at network facilities or server rooms.

Salary development over time

The salary trend for Quality Technicians in telecommunications has shown a steady and positive increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,600 SEK per month, rising to 48 800 SEK in both 2023 and 2024. This represents a salary increase of just over 4.7% between 2022 and 2023, with salaries remaining at the same level thereafter. The development reflects increased demand for technical expertise in the telecom sector, but also a slight slowdown in salary growth recently. Market needs for qualified technicians and technological advancements have contributed to rising wages, but stabilization suggests supply and demand are currently fairly balanced.

Quality Technician in Telecommunications Salary – Complete Overview

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

Education and Qualifications

The path to becoming a Quality Technician in telecommunications typically involves post-secondary technical education, often at university or YH level, focusing on telecommunications, electronics, or computer engineering. Practical experience with technical systems, networks, and quality assurance is highly beneficial. Certifications in relevant standards or systems can also be crucial for qualifying for advanced roles.

• Post-secondary education: University engineer (3 years) or YH training (2–3 years) in telecommunications, electronics, or computer engineering
• Certifications: For example, ISO 9001, network certifications, or vendor-specific certificates
• Internships/Trainee programs: Practical placements or trainee programs are recommended to build experience
• Prerequisites: Basic mathematics, technical skills, and IT knowledge are required
• Self-study/online courses: Courses in telecommunications technology and quality management are available digitally

Common Benefits and Compensation

Common benefits for telecommunications quality technicians include wellness allowances, occupational pensions, flexible working hours, and opportunities for skills development. Bonuses and incentives linked to project results may also be present, along with access to company cars or other technical equipment depending on the employer and role.

Challenges and Competition

The job market for telecommunications quality technicians is characterized by high demand, but also a paradoxical recruitment situation where many leave the profession while employers report difficulties in recruiting. Technological innovations and new standards require continuous skills development, which can be challenging for both recent graduates and experienced technicians. Additionally, tasks can be complex and require high precision, especially in troubleshooting and quality assurance of advanced systems. Regional differences may exist, with metropolitan areas often offering more opportunities but also higher competition for the most attractive positions.

Tips for aspiring telecommunications Quality Technicians

To succeed as a telecommunications quality technician, it’s beneficial to combine technical interest with analytical skills and accuracy. A structured approach facilitates troubleshooting and documentation, while curiosity helps stay updated on new technologies and standards. Being communicative and collaborative is valuable, as the role often involves working with technical teams and clients. Problem-solving skills and patience aid in complex challenges, and a proactive attitude enables identifying improvement areas and driving quality initiatives forward.

Key Facts about Quality Technicians in Telecommunications

• Education level: Post-secondary (YH or university engineer)
• Average salary: 48 800 SEK/month
• Work environment: Both office and field work, often in technically advanced settings
• Demand: Large opportunities nationwide
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 95% of what men do

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a Quality Technician in telecommunications can develop into roles such as quality manager, project leader, or specialist in a particular technical area. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, job opportunities in the field are substantial, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Recruitment difficulties occur, which means employers value experience and specialization. There are also opportunities to advance into leadership positions within quality management or technical development, especially for those combining technical skills with leadership ability. Currently, there are 564 job openings in the field, highlighting a strong labor market.

Frequently Asked Questions about Quality Technicians in Telecommunications

• What does a Quality Technician in telecommunications earn?
  - The average salary is 48 800 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, education, and sector.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 95% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What education is required to become a Quality Technician in telecommunications?
  - Post-secondary education, such as a university engineer degree or YH vocational training in telecommunications or related technical fields, is recommended.
• What is the job market like for Quality Technicians in telecommunications?
  - Job opportunities are abundant, and demand is expected to remain stable in the coming years.
• What are the most common job tasks?
  - Monitoring, troubleshooting, optimization, and documentation of telecommunications systems and networks.
• How has salary development looked over recent years?
  - Salaries increased from 46,600 SEK in 2022 to 48 800 SEK in 2023 and 2024.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Opportunities to advance to quality manager, project leader, or specialist within telecommunications.