Line fitter, telecom

What does a telecommunications line technician do – tasks and work environment

A telecommunications line technician is responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of telecommunications networks. Tasks include pulling and connecting telephone cables, both above and below ground, as well as troubleshooting and fixing network disruptions. The work environment varies between outdoor work on poles and masts, and indoor work in stations and technical rooms. Often, work at heights or in confined spaces is required, demanding high safety standards and precision. Irregular working hours and on-call duties may occur, especially during urgent operational issues.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salary development for telecommunications line technicians has been clearly positive. In 2022, the average salary was 34,100 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 34 700 SEK, which is approximately a 1.8% increase. The most significant rise occurred between 2023 and 2024, when the average salary rose to 38 100 SEK – an increase of nearly 9.8%. This substantial salary growth reflects increasing demand for skills in telecommunications, as well as higher requirements for technical knowledge and flexibility. The market has been influenced by technological advancements and major infrastructure projects, increasing competition for qualified workers and thus salary levels.

Telecommunications line technician salary – full overview

• Average salary: 38 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,100 SEK/month (female)
• Highest salary: 47,800 SEK/month (male, public sector, post-secondary education of at least 3 years)
• Hourly wage (average): 229 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 34,100 SEK, men earn 38 300 SEK (women 89% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: No specific regional salary data available

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a telecommunications line technician typically involves completing the vocational program in electricity and energy with specialization in automation or electrical engineering. Post-secondary education, especially in telecommunications, can be advantageous and provide better opportunities for higher salary and responsibilities. Practical experience and certifications are often important for employment and career development. Safety training and work environment courses are required due to the risky nature of the work.

• Vocational education: Electricity and energy program, 3 years
• Post-secondary education: YH courses in telecom/electrical engineering (1–2 years)
• Certifications: Work at heights, ESA, and sometimes B driver's license
• Internship/trainee: Practical experience through apprenticeship or internship is often required
• Prerequisites: Good physical ability and technical interest

Common benefits and compensations

Typical benefits for telecommunications line technicians include company cars or service vehicles, work clothing and protective equipment, as well as extra compensation for unsocial hours and on-call duties. Often, wellness allowances, insurances, and opportunities for further training through the employer are available. Union agreements also regulate overtime pay and holiday benefits.

Competition and challenges

The competition in the job market for telecommunications line technicians is currently relatively low, providing good employment opportunities. However, recruitment difficulties are reported, as many leave the profession even though demand remains steady. High technical requirements, work environment risks, and sometimes tough working conditions can be challenging for newcomers. Technological development requires continuous training, and a shortage of experienced workers can lead to increased workload for existing staff.

Tips for those aspiring to become telecommunications line technicians

To succeed as a telecommunications line technician, having both technical interest and problem-solving skills is beneficial. Precision is crucial, especially when working with electrical safety and installations at heights, to ensure tasks are performed correctly and safely. Physical endurance and stress resilience are important, as work is often outdoors under varying conditions and may require quick responses to urgent faults. Early internships during training are advisable to gain relevant experience and build industry contacts. Keeping up-to-date with new technologies and regulations increases opportunities for advancement and more qualified tasks. Flexibility and the ability to collaborate with different professional groups facilitate daily work and make you more attractive in the job market.

Key facts about Telecommunications Line Technician

• Education level: Vocational training, often supplemented with YH or certificates
• Work environment: Varied – both outdoor and indoor, sometimes at heights
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment, recruitment difficulties reported
• Number of job openings: 481 within the profession
• Typical employment: Full-time, permanent employment

Career prospects and future outlook

After three to five years in the profession, a telecommunications line technician can advance to roles such as team leader, project manager, or specialist in network planning and troubleshooting. Further education to become a telecommunications engineer or taking responsibility for training new technicians is also possible. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, job opportunities in the profession remain strong, with stable demand over the next five years. Despite many leaving the profession, the need for new skilled technicians persists, especially as digitalization and telecommunications infrastructure expansion continue.

Frequently asked questions about Telecommunications Line Technician

• What does a telecommunications line technician earn?
  - The average salary is 38 100 SEK per month. Women earn 34,100 SEK and men 38 300 SEK.
• What education is required to become a telecommunications line technician?
  - Most commonly, the vocational program in electricity and energy, sometimes supplemented with YH training and certificates for safety and working at heights.
• What is the job market like for telecommunications line technicians?
  - Demand is high and recruitment difficulties are reported. Currently, there are 481 job openings in the profession.
• What is the highest salary for a telecommunications line technician?
  - The highest reported salary is 47,800 SEK per month, for a male in the public sector with post-secondary education of at least 3 years.
• What personal qualities are important in the profession?
  - Technical interest, accuracy, physical endurance, and flexibility are central qualities.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, 89% of what men earn in the profession.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Team leader, project manager, specialist roles, and further education to become a telecommunications engineer are possible career paths.