Mechanical engineer, waterworks

What does a mechanical technician in a waterworks do? – Tasks and work environment

A mechanical technician in a waterworks is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and monitoring of technical equipment in water treatment plants to ensure optimal functioning. Tasks include troubleshooting, repairs, preventive maintenance, and installation of machines and systems that guarantee safe and efficient water supply. The work is often performed in teams and requires good collaboration skills as well as the ability to quickly solve technical problems. The work environment can vary between indoor work in control rooms and outdoor work at larger waterworks, where safety protocols and precision are crucial for both operational reliability and water quality.

Salary development over time

The salary for a mechanical technician in a waterworks has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,300 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 37 100 SEK in 2023, and further up to 38 300 SEK in 2024. The total salary increase over this period amounts to approximately 5.5%, which is slightly higher than the average wage growth on the labor market. This positive trend can be explained by continued demand for technical expertise in water treatment and increased requirements for operational security and environmental adaptation. Although the labor market is considered balanced, technological advances and automation have contributed to higher skill requirements, positively impacting salary levels.

Mechanical technician, waterworks salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 38 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,700 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Highest salary: 42,200 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage: 230 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Women earn 95% of what men do (women: 36 600 SEK, men: 38 500 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data on regional salary differences is currently unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a mechanical technician in a waterworks, a technical education at high school or post-secondary level is usually required, often with a focus on operations technology, mechanical engineering, or process technology. Practical experience from water treatment plants or similar industrial environments is highly meritorious and may sometimes be a requirement. Certifications and specialized courses in water treatment, automation, and safety can increase employment and advancement opportunities.

• High school education: Industrial technology programs or VVS and property management programs (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: Vocational college in operations technology, mechanical engineering, or process technology (2–3 years)
• Certifications: Courses in water treatment, work environment, and automation
• Practical training: Internships or trainee positions at water treatment plants or similar facilities
• Prerequisites: Technical interest, problem-solving skills, and good communication skills

Common benefits and compensations

Mechanical technicians in waterworks are often covered by collective agreements that include benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, and overtime pay. Other common benefits include work clothes, further training, and sometimes flexible working hours. In some cases, insurance and subsidized lunches are also offered.

Competition and challenges

The profession of a mechanical technician in waterworks is characterized by a balanced labor market, where demand for skilled technicians is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Automation and technological development impose increased requirements for continuous training and adaptability, while also potentially reducing the need for certain tasks. Competition for the most attractive positions can be high, especially in metropolitan areas or at larger facilities with advanced technology. A challenge is to stay updated on environmental regulations and new technical solutions, while safety standards are high and the work can be physically demanding.

Tips for aspiring mechanical technicians in waterworks

To succeed as a mechanical technician in a waterworks, it is good to be curious about technical solutions from the start and demonstrate a strong engagement in problem-solving. Precision is a crucial trait, as small mistakes can have significant consequences for water quality and safety. It is also important to be flexible and capable of quickly adapting to new working methods or technical changes. Developing good teamwork skills facilitates working in teams and makes it easier to handle stressful situations. Initiative is valuable, especially when quick decisions are needed or routines need improvement. Good communication is important both internally and externally, and a willingness to continuously learn new things facilitates career development within the profession.

Key facts about mechanical technicians in waterworks

• Education level: High school or post-secondary vocational training (2–3 years)
• Work environment: Both indoor and outdoor, often shift work
• Demand: 481 available jobs nationally within the profession
• Gender distribution: Salary difference, women earn 95% of men's salary
• Future prospects: Moderate opportunities, demand expected to remain unchanged over five years

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a mechanical technician in a waterworks, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as supervisor, operations manager, or specialist in water treatment technology. Some choose to further their education in automation, environmental engineering, or project management to broaden their career options. According to the Employment Service's forecast for the occupation of operations technicians at heating and water plants, job prospects are considered moderate, with stable demand over the next five years. Technological developments in the field may lead to new tasks and requirements for further training, but the core skills will continue to be in demand. There are also opportunities to work internationally or within related sectors such as energy and environmental industries.

Common questions about mechanical technicians in waterworks

• What does a mechanical technician in a waterworks earn?
  - The average salary for a mechanical technician in a waterworks is 38 300 SEK per month.
• What are the gender differences in salaries?
  - Women earn on average 95% of what men do within the profession.
• What education is required to become a mechanical technician in a waterworks?
  - A high school education in technology or a vocational college with a focus on operations technology, mechanical engineering, or process technology is usually required.
• What is the job market outlook for mechanical technicians in waterworks?
  - The job market is considered balanced with 481 available jobs nationally within the profession.
• Are there opportunities for career development?
  - Yes, after a few years of experience, there are opportunities to advance to supervisory roles or specialize in technology and environmental issues.
• What is the salary of the highest-paid mechanical technician in a waterworks?
  - The highest salary is 42,200 SEK per month and belongs to a man in the private sector with post-secondary education.
• What is the lowest salary in the profession?
  - The lowest salary is 30,700 SEK per month and applies to a woman in the municipal sector with post-secondary education.