Truck mechanic

What does a truck mechanic do? – Tasks and work environment

A truck mechanic works with servicing, repairing, and maintaining heavy vehicles such as trucks, trailers, and sometimes buses. Tasks include engine replacements, troubleshooting in advanced electrical systems, brake repairs, routine maintenance, and safety checks. The mechanic uses both hand tools and digital diagnostic equipment to identify and fix faults. Work is often performed in workshops but can also involve dispatches to stranded vehicles on the roads. The work environment is practical, sometimes noisy and physically demanding, and it is important to follow safety procedures to avoid injuries.

Salary development over time

The salary for truck mechanics has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,900 SEK per month, which increased to 33 200 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary continued upward to 34 400 SEK per month, representing a total increase of about 7.8% over three years. This positive trend can be explained by sustained high demand for qualified mechanics, while technological advancements in heavy vehicles require increasingly specialized skills. Although salary increases are relatively steady over the years, there are still clear differences between genders and regions. The market is expected to remain stable, but technological development and a shortage of experienced mechanics may continue to drive salaries upward.

Truck mechanic salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 34 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,100 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 36,300 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 207 SEK
• Women: 32 500 SEK/month (94% of men's salary)
• Men: 34 500 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Highest salaries are seen in regional sectors, lowest in public sector

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a truck mechanic usually goes through high school programs in vehicle and transport with a focus on heavy vehicles. After completing education, practical training or apprenticeships are often required to deepen hands-on skills. Certifications and further training in new technical systems are also common to meet industry demands. Prior knowledge in technology, mathematics, and problem-solving is highly valued by employers.

• High school education: Vehicle and transport program (3 years), with a focus on heavy vehicles
• Certifications: Examples include AC certification, electrical competence, or vehicle diagnostics
• Practical training: Mandatory workplace-based learning (APL) during education
• Further training: Courses in new vehicle technologies and electrical systems
• Prerequisites: Interest in technology, mechanics, and problem-solving

Common benefits and compensations

Truck mechanics are often offered benefits such as work clothes, wellness allowances, and sometimes bonuses upon reaching goals. Other common compensations include evening and weekend work supplements, as well as opportunities for further training at the employer's expense. Some employers also offer discounted workshop services or favorable pension solutions.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a truck mechanic varies depending on region and industry. Despite recruitment difficulties due to a shortage of qualified workers, there is also a reported relatively high unemployment within the profession. One of the biggest challenges is keeping up with rapid technological developments in heavy vehicles, where vehicle electronics and digital systems are becoming increasingly important. The work environment can be physically demanding and occasionally stressful, especially during urgent repairs or high season. Maintaining and developing the right skills is crucial to meet the industry's increasing demands.

Tips for those who want to become a truck mechanic

To succeed as a truck mechanic, it is good to have a genuine interest in technology and a problem-solving attitude, as the work often involves troubleshooting in complex systems. Precision is important to identify and fix faults safely, especially regarding safety-critical components. Being resilient and physically fit is an advantage since some tasks are physically demanding and may involve heavy lifting or working in uncomfortable positions. Collaboration skills are valuable because many tasks are performed in teams or require dialogue with colleagues and customers. Finally, it is important to be flexible and willing to further educate oneself, as technology in heavy vehicles develops quickly and demands new skills.

Key facts about truck mechanics

• Education level: High school education, focusing on heavy vehicles (3 years)
• Work environment: Workshop, sometimes dispatch to stranded vehicles
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment, especially for experienced workers
• Gender distribution: Salary gap – women earn 94% of men's salaries
• Job openings: 481 advertised positions within the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, there are opportunities for truck mechanics to take on more advanced roles such as diagnostics or specialist technicians, team leaders, or workshop managers. Some choose to further their education in electrical and hybrid vehicles or move on to become trainers in the industry. The prognosis from the Employment Service indicates that job opportunities are large and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. However, there is a paradoxical situation with both recruitment difficulties and some unemployment within the profession. For those who want to develop, there are also opportunities to specialize in new vehicle technologies or start their own business.

Frequently asked questions about truck mechanics

• What does a truck mechanic earn?
  - The average salary is 34 400 SEK per month, but varies between 30,100 and 36,300 SEK depending on experience and sector.
• How does one become a truck mechanic?
  - Most commonly through high school programs in vehicle and transport, followed by internships and sometimes certification in heavy vehicles.
• Are there good job opportunities for truck mechanics?
  - Yes, job opportunities are considered plentiful with 481 available positions in the profession.
• What education is required to work as a truck mechanic?
  - High school education in vehicle technology, preferably with a focus on heavy vehicles, plus practical training.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn on average 94% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Interest in technology, problem-solving skills, accuracy, and teamwork are central qualities.
• What tasks does a truck mechanic perform?
  - Servicing, repairing, troubleshooting, and maintaining heavy vehicles, often with advanced diagnostic equipment.