Teacher, automation

What does a teacher in automation do? – Tasks and work environment

A teacher in automation is responsible for educating students in technical subjects related to automation, control and regulation technology, and industrial processes. Tasks include both theoretical and practical teaching, with planning of lessons, laboratory exercises, and supervision of projects being central. Teaching often takes place in upper secondary vocational programs, technical colleges, or adult education, with close collaboration with industry to ensure relevance. The work environment varies between classrooms, workshops, and laboratories, where modern technical tools and industrial equipment are frequently used. In addition to teaching, responsibilities include mentoring, assessing student performance, and collaborating with colleagues in daily work.

Salary development over time

The salary for teachers in automation has shown a clear positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 39,100 SEK per month, increasing to 40 200 SEK in 2023 and further to 41 600 SEK in 2024. This represents a salary increase of approximately 6.4 % over this period. This development can partly be explained by the high demand for vocational teachers with technical skills, especially in areas where industry struggles to recruit. The shortage of qualified teachers and technological advancements in automation have contributed to rising wages. The trend indicates that teachers in automation are a sought-after profession, and salary development reflects both skill needs and overall wage trends in the education sector.

Teachers in automation salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 41 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,400 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, upper secondary education)
• Highest salary: 47,600 SEK/month (male, private sector, research degree)
• Hourly wage: 250 SEK
• Women earn: 41 300 SEK (99 % of men's salary)
• Men earn: 41 800 SEK
• Regional differences: Minor variations, but higher salaries occur in metropolitan areas and within the private sector

Education and qualifications

To work as a teacher in automation, a combination of work experience in the technical field and pedagogical training is usually required. Many have a background as engineers or technicians and supplement their skills with a vocational teacher training for vocational subjects. Formal requirements vary depending on the level of teaching, but qualification to teach at upper secondary or vocational college often requires both a vocational college degree and a teacher’s license.

• Vocational teacher certification: 1.5–2 years (additional training on top of technical background)
• Technical education: Upper secondary engineer, university engineer, or equivalent
• Practical experience: Several years of work experience in automation or related technical fields
• Pedagogical supplement: KPU (Supplementary pedagogical training) possible for academics
• Certifications: Meritorious in areas such as PLC programming, industrial IT, or robotics
• Prerequisites: Good knowledge of mathematics, technology, and digital tools

Common benefits and compensations

Teachers in automation are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, generous vacation policies, wellness allowances, and opportunities for skills development. Access to modern technical equipment and work clothing may also be included, along with the possibility of flexible working hours or remote work to some extent. Union agreements often provide additional security and benefits within the public sector.

Competition and challenges

The job market for teachers in automation is characterized by high demand but also challenges. The shortage of qualified vocational teachers makes it difficult for many schools to recruit, especially in smaller towns. At the same time, rapid technological shifts mean that knowledge requirements are constantly changing, demanding continuous training and adaptability. Balancing teaching responsibilities, administration, and contact with industry can be demanding, and workload varies depending on school and region. For those looking to establish themselves in the profession, it is important to be prepared for a career in constant development with high demands on collaboration and flexibility.

Tips for aspiring teachers in automation

To succeed as a teacher in automation, it is beneficial to combine technical expertise with pedagogical skills and a genuine interest in developing young people. Curiosity and staying updated on the latest technology facilitate both teaching and industry contact. Good communication skills are essential for explaining complex processes pedagogically and engaging students. Building networks within both education and industry can lead to collaborations and internships for students. Engagement and patience are crucial, as extra efforts may be needed to motivate and support students from diverse backgrounds. Taking initiatives for own skills development, such as courses or certifications, provides an advantage in the job market. Finally, teamwork and organizational skills are important for managing teaching, administration, and projects.

Key facts about teachers in automation

• Educational level: Vocational teacher certification with a technical focus
• Work environment: School, workshop, and lab environment
• Demand: High, especially in vocational education
• Typical work form: Full-time, daytime
• Special skills: Automation systems, programming, industrial IT

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a teacher in automation, there are good opportunities for further development, such as becoming a program manager, training coordinator, or course developer. Some choose to specialize in areas like robotics or digitalization, while others move into school leadership roles or collaborate with companies in the tech industry. According to the Employment Service’s forecast, the job opportunities nationwide are strong, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. However, recruitment is paradoxical: while it is difficult to find qualified teachers, many leave the profession or work part-time. As of May 2024, there were 434 job openings in the vocational teacher sector, indicating a continued strong labor market for this expertise.

Common questions about teachers in automation

• What does a teacher in automation earn?
  - The average salary is 41 600 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, sector, and educational level.
• What education is required to become a teacher in automation?
  - A technical background combined with a vocational teacher certification or additional pedagogical training is required.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn 99 % of men's salaries in this profession.
• What does the job market look like for teachers in automation?
  - Demand is high, and there are many vacancies, especially within upper secondary schools and vocational colleges.
• What are the typical tasks of a teacher in automation?
  - Teaching, supervision, course development, and collaboration with industry are common tasks.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for the profession?
  - The highest salary is 47,600 SEK and the lowest 34,400 SEK.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Pedagogical ability, technical interest, teamwork skills, and initiative are particularly valuable.