Teacher, vehicle technology

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

A teacher in vehicle technology is responsible for educating students at the high school level in the automotive and transport programs or equivalent adult education. Tasks include planning, conducting, and evaluating practical and theoretical lessons in areas such as car technology, engines, electrical systems, electronics, and vehicle safety. The work often takes place in specialized workshops and classrooms, where pedagogical leadership is combined with supervision of practical tasks. Collaboration with the industry, such as through internships and field trips, is common to provide students with relevant and real-world training. The work environment is characterized by technical challenges and close work with young people or adult learners, requiring both subject knowledge and pedagogical skills.

Salary development over time

The profession of teacher in vehicle technology has experienced clear positive salary growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 39,100 SEK per month, increasing to 40 200 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 41 600 SEK, which corresponds to an increase of approximately 6.4% over the three-year period. This development reflects an increased demand for technical and vehicle educators, where a shortage of qualified trainers has driven up wages. The trend also shows some convergence between genders, with women now earning 99% of men's salaries. The market's need for technically skilled educators and increased investments in vocational training have contributed to strengthening salary growth in the profession.

Teacher in vehicle technology salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 41 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,400 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, 3-year vocational education)
• Highest salary: 47,600 SEK/month (male, private sector, doctoral education)
• Hourly rate: 250 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 41 300 SEK, men 41 800 SEK (women 99% of men's salaries)
• Regional differences: Data varies, but higher salaries often occur in metropolitan regions

Education and qualifications

To work as a teacher in vehicle technology, a combination of industry experience and pedagogical training is usually required. The most common path is to first train as a vehicle technician and then pursue a vocational teacher degree at college or university. To be eligible, a teaching license and several years of experience in vehicle-related work are often required. Additional courses and certifications in pedagogy and technology can be advantageous.

• Formal qualification: Vocational teacher degree (college/university, approx. 1.5–2 years for experienced professionals)
• Industry experience: Several years working as a vehicle technician or equivalent
• Teaching license: Often a requirement for permanent employment
• Certifications: Courses in vehicle technology, electrical systems, electronics, and pedagogy can be advantageous
• Practical training: Included in teacher training and often also during vehicle technician education

Common benefits and compensations

Teachers in vehicle technology are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, insurance, and paid vacation. Other common benefits include wellness allowances, professional development, subsidized lunches, and flexible working hours. Some employers may also include work clothing and further training as part of employment conditions.

Competition and challenges

The demand for teachers in vehicle technology is generally high, which is reflected in many available positions nationwide and a strong job market. At the same time, the profession faces a paradoxical recruitment situation where there is a shortage of qualified teachers, even though the proportion leaving the profession or working part-time is relatively high. Challenges include staying updated with rapid technological advances in the automotive industry and meeting the diverse needs of students. Workload can also be high at certain times, especially during course starts and grading periods.

Tips for those aspiring to become teachers in vehicle technology

To succeed as a teacher in vehicle technology, it is good to combine a strong technical interest with pedagogical skills. Being communicative facilitates both in the classroom and during supervision of practical tasks, while patience is essential for creating a safe learning environment for students with different backgrounds. It is recommended to gain broad industry experience in vehicle technology before transitioning to a teaching career, and to stay updated with the latest technology through continuing education. Flexibility and the ability to adapt teaching to students' needs are important qualities, as well as building good relationships with students and colleagues. An active network within the industry can also be valuable for creating relevant internship opportunities for students.

Key facts about teachers in vehicle technology

• Education level: Vocational teacher degree (college/university, 1.5–2 years for experienced professionals)
• Work form: Usually full-time, daytime
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment, especially in metropolitan areas and regions with strong automotive industries
• Special skills: Vehicle technology, electrical systems, electronics, pedagogy
• Work environment: Workshop environment combined with classroom instruction

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years in the profession, there are opportunities to take on expanded responsibilities, such as program coordinator, mentor for new colleagues, or developing course materials. Further education can lead to roles such as team leader, training coordinator, or special educator. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service forecast, job prospects are very good, and demand is expected to remain stable over the next 5 years. This indicates a stable job market, although recruitment can be challenging due to a shortage of qualified teachers. The number of available positions is high, with 434 advertised jobs within the profession. Regional differences exist, with the highest demand in metropolitan regions and areas with a strong automotive industry.

Frequently asked questions about Teachers, vehicle technology

• What is the salary of a Teacher, vehicle technology?
  - The average salary is 41 600 SEK per month, with an hourly rate of 250 SEK for hourly employees.
• How do salary differences between men and women look?
  - Women earn 41 300 SEK on average, men 41 800 SEK; thus, women’s salaries are 99% of men’s salaries.
• What education is required to become a teacher in vehicle technology?
  - A vocational teacher degree from college/university and several years of experience as a vehicle technician are required.
• What are the most common workplaces?
  - High schools, adult education, vocational colleges, and sometimes private training providers.
• What is the state of the job market?
  - Job opportunities are plentiful, and demand is expected to remain high in the coming years.
• Is there an opportunity for further education?
  - Yes, further training in pedagogy, leadership, or specialization within vehicle technology is common.
• What are the biggest challenges in the profession?
  - Staying updated with rapid technological developments and meeting the needs of different students.