Medical engineer

What does a medical technology engineer do? – Tasks and work environment

A medical technology engineer is responsible for developing, installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting advanced medical equipment within healthcare. Tasks include daily technical support, preventive maintenance, participating in procurement and implementation of new technology at hospitals and clinics. The role also involves training healthcare staff in safe use of equipment and ensuring that the equipment meets safety and functionality standards. The work environment often combines close proximity to technical and patient-related activities, demanding accuracy, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.

Salary development over time

The salary of a medical technology engineer has fluctuated slightly over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 35,500 SEK per month, which then decreased to 32 700 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the salary has recovered somewhat and now amounts to 34 000 SEK per month. This development corresponds to a decrease of about 8% between 2022 and 2023, followed by an increase of approximately 4% between 2023 and 2024. Fluctuations can partly be explained by changes in demand for technical skills in healthcare, as well as variations in education level and work experience among new hires. The market for medical technical competence is relatively stable but influenced by technological advances and economic conditions in both public and private sectors.

Medical technology engineer salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 34 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,000 SEK/month (female, private employee, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 59,300 SEK/month (male, private employee, doctoral degree)
• Hourly wage: 204 SEK
• Men's average salary: 34 600 SEK
• Women's average salary: 33 300 SEK
• Women earn: 96% of what men do

Education and qualifications

To work as a medical technology engineer, a university degree in medical technology or a related technical field is usually required. The education typically lasts three to five years at college or university and includes both theory and practical training. Many employers also value supplementary courses in medicine, electronics, or IT, as well as experience working in healthcare environments.

• Education: Bachelor's or master's degree in medical technology (3–5 years)
• Certifications: Courses in medical safety or quality assurance can be advantageous
• Internships: Internships or trainee programs at hospitals or in the medical technology industry
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies and specific requirements in mathematics, physics, and engineering
• Tips: Combine technical studies with courses in medicine to strengthen your professional profile

Common benefits and compensations

Medical technology engineers are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, extra vacation days, and opportunities for skill development. Occupational pension, flexible working hours, and support for further education are also common, especially in the public sector. Larger hospitals or private industry may also provide bonus programs and access to corporate healthcare.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions varies by region and employer, but there is generally stable demand for medical technology engineers in Sweden. Challenges in the profession include rapid technological changes, requirements for continuous training, and working in environments where both technical and medical aspects must be balanced. The work may also involve responsibility for critical equipment, where errors can have serious consequences for patient safety. Since the profession is relatively small, access to specialist roles can be limited, demanding flexibility and broad competence.

Tips for those who want to become a medical technology engineer

To succeed as a medical technology engineer, it is helpful to have an analytical mindset and enjoy problem-solving, as the work often involves troubleshooting complex equipment. Precision is crucial to ensure that technical systems operate safely for patients. Communication skills are also important to instruct and collaborate with healthcare staff and other technicians. An interest in continuously learning new techniques and methods is valuable, as the field develops rapidly. Independence and initiative are appreciated by employers, as many tasks require personal responsibility. Finally, the ability to handle stress and prioritize correctly in emergency situations is essential for thriving and succeeding in the profession.

Key facts about medical technology engineers

• Education level: Bachelor's or master's degree (3–5 years)
• Work environment: Hospitals, clinics, and medical technology industry
• Typical work arrangement: Full-time, often daytime but sometimes on-call
• Demand: 564 available jobs in 2024
• Special skills: Technology, medicine, and safety standards

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, medical technology engineers have opportunities to advance to specialist roles or take responsibility as project managers for larger technical implementations in healthcare. It is also common for engineers to further their education in areas such as quality management, research, or product development. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, no specific assessment is made for this profession due to limited data, but the job market for technicians in medical imaging and medical equipment is considered relatively stable with 564 available jobs registered in 2024. Future prospects are influenced by rapid technological development and an increasing need for qualified technical skills in healthcare, indicating continued good opportunities for both new and experienced engineers.

Frequently asked questions about medical technology engineers

• What does a medical technology engineer earn?
  - The average salary is 34 000 SEK per month, but it varies depending on experience, education, and employer.
• What education is required to become a medical technology engineer?
  - A university or engineering degree in medical technology or a related field is required.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 33 300 SEK while men earn 34 600 SEK, which means women earn 96% of men's salaries.
• What is the job market like for medical technology engineers?
  - There are 564 available jobs, and demand is relatively stable.
• What workplaces are common for medical technology engineers?
  - Common workplaces include hospitals, clinics, medical technology industries, and research institutions.
• What are the biggest challenges in the profession?
  - Keeping up with technological developments, working under time pressure, and managing complex technical problems.
• How wide is the salary range within the profession?
  - Salaries range from 30,000 SEK to 59,300 SEK depending on education, experience, and sector.