Teacher, transport

What does a transportation teacher do? – Tasks and work environment

Transportation teachers educate students in subjects related to vehicle technology, logistics, and traffic regulations at upper secondary school transportation programs and adult education. Tasks include both theoretical and practical teaching, often involving supervision in workshops, simulator training, and driving exercises. The instruction is adapted to industry requirements, meaning teachers stay updated on legislation, environmental aspects, and new technology. The work environment varies between classrooms, workshops, and sometimes outdoor training areas, requiring flexibility and safety awareness.

Salary development over time

Transportation teachers have experienced positive salary growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 39,100 SEK per month, which increased to 40 200 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has continued to rise to 41 600 SEK per month, representing an increase of approximately 6.4% over three years. This salary improvement can partly be explained by increased demand for vocational teachers in transportation, especially as the industry faces significant retirements and a need for new skills. At the same time, education level and work experience influence salary development, with those holding specialized certificates or longer experience often earning higher wages. The trend shows a stable salary level with increases aligned with the labor market’s need for qualified transportation teachers.

Transportation teachers' salaries – complete 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 education)
• Hourly wage: 250 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 41 800 SEK, women 41 300 SEK (women 99% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salary variations may occur depending on the size of the labor market and demand, but specific figures are not available.

Education and qualifications

To work as a transportation teacher, a combination of industry experience and pedagogical training is required. Most have backgrounds as professional drivers, vehicle technicians, or similar, followed by additional training as vocational teachers. Practical experience is highly valued, and certifications such as driving licenses for heavy vehicles or ADR can be advantageous.

• Vocational teacher degree: 3–4 years at university/higher education
• Work experience: Several years within the transportation sector
• Pedagogical training: Teacher education focusing on vocational subjects
• Certifications: For example, C- or D-license, ADR certificates
• Internship/traineeship: Often part of the training
• Prerequisites: Upper secondary diploma and relevant vocational competence

Common benefits and compensations

Transportation teachers are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness grants, professional development, and sometimes subsidized lunches. In municipal employment, additional vacation days and flexible working hours may also be available. Compensation for unsocial hours and further training is common, especially if teaching occurs in evenings or weekends.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as transportation teachers is relatively low, as the industry faces recruitment difficulties and high demand for qualified teachers. At the same time, keeping up with technological developments and changing regulations in the transportation sector presents challenges. The profession also requires the ability to handle students with diverse backgrounds and experience, demanding pedagogical flexibility. Another challenge is balancing practical teaching with theoretical components, which can be resource-intensive. Despite this, the job market is stable, and employment opportunities are very good.

Tips for aspiring transportation teachers

To succeed as a transportation teacher, it is beneficial to combine pedagogical skills with practical experience in the industry. Good communication skills facilitate explaining complex rules and technical details to students with varying backgrounds. Flexibility is crucial, as teaching often takes place in diverse environments and may require quick adjustments to new curricula or technical tools. Analytical skills help identify students’ needs and tailor instruction accordingly. Engagement and patience are important personal qualities, especially when motivating and supporting students through both theoretical and practical training. Finally, curiosity about new technology and continuous further education are advantageous to stay current in the profession.

Key facts about transportation teachers

• Education level: Vocational teacher degree after higher education
• Work environment: Mix of classroom, workshop, and practical exercises
• Demand: Great employment opportunities, 434 available jobs
• Typical employment form: Full-time, often municipal or private sector
• Special skills: Heavy vehicle licenses, ADR, pedagogy

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a transportation teacher, there are good opportunities to advance to leadership roles such as training coordinator, program manager, or development officer for training programs. Many also choose to specialize in specific transportation areas, such as environmental transport or digital tools. According to forecasts from the Employment Service, job opportunities are plentiful, and demand for vocational subject teachers is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Interestingly, there is a paradoxical recruitment situation where it is difficult to find qualified teachers despite many vacancies. Those combining pedagogical competence with industry-specific experience have very promising future prospects.

Common questions about transportation teachers

• What does a transportation teacher earn?
  - The average salary is 41 600 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience and sector.
• What education is required to become a transportation teacher?
  - A vocational teacher degree with relevant work experience is required.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, men earn on average 41 800 SEK, while women earn 41 300 SEK, which corresponds to 99% of men's salary.
• What does the job market look like for transportation teachers?
  - Demand is high, and there are currently 434 available jobs in the profession.
• In what work environments does a transportation teacher work?
  - Both classrooms, workshops, and practical training areas.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries in the profession?
  - Highest salary is 47,600 SEK/month (male, private sector, research education), lowest is 34,400 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, upper secondary education).
• Are special licenses or certifications needed?
  - Yes, often C- or D-licenses and sometimes ADR certificates or similar are required.