What does a software engineer do? – Tasks and work environment
Software engineers work on developing, testing, and maintaining software for a variety of systems and applications. Tasks include programming, system design, troubleshooting, and collaboration with other developers and project managers. The work often takes place in agile teams where problem-solving and innovation are prioritized. The work environment is mostly office-based, but opportunities for remote work are common in the industry.
Salary development over time
The salary for software engineers has shown steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 50,700 SEK per month, followed by 52 800 SEK in 2023, and continuing to rise to 54 900 SEK in 2024. This development represents an increase of approximately 8.3% over the three-year period. The salary increase can be explained by continued high demand for skilled developers, rapid technological advancements, and digitalization in both private and public sectors. The market is also characterized by a shortage of experienced software developers, further driving up salaries.
Software engineer salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 54 900 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 40,000 SEK/month (female, public sector, pre-secondary education)
- Highest salary: 61,600 SEK/month (male, private sector, research degree)
- Hourly wage: 330 SEK
- Gender differences: Women earn on average 52 700 SEK, men 55 600 SEK (women 95% of men's salary)
- Regional differences: Salaries vary, higher in metropolitan areas and within the private sector
Education and qualifications
To work as a software engineer, a university or master's degree in computer engineering, computer science, or related fields is usually required. Many employers also seek experience with specific programming languages and development environments. Practical experience, through internships or personal projects, is often an advantage during recruitment.
- Formal degree: Bachelor's or master's in computer engineering (3–5 years)
- Certifications: Examples include Microsoft, AWS, or Google Cloud
- Internships/trainee programs: Common during education
- Prerequisites: Basic proficiency in mathematics and programming
- Self-study/online courses: Many supplement with courses on platforms like Coursera or Udemy
A software engineer is one of the few professions where the opportunity to work internationally is significant early in the career. Many Swedish engineers are recruited by global tech companies and get the chance to participate in international projects without necessarily relocating abroad.
Common benefits and compensations
Software engineers are often offered benefits such as flexible working hours, remote work options, occupational pensions, wellness allowances, and sometimes bonus programs. Access to professional development and further training may also be included in the employment package.
Competition and challenges
Competition for the most attractive positions within software development remains high despite strong demand. A challenge is the rapid pace of technological development, which can make both education and experience quickly outdated. Many employers set high requirements for specialization in certain frameworks or technologies. Additionally, recruitment difficulties are common, as many leave the profession for other roles or further education. To stay competitive, continuous skills development and interest in new technologies are essential.
Tips for those who want to become a software engineer
To succeed as a software engineer, it helps to combine analytical skills with curiosity about technological developments. Keeping up-to-date with new programming languages and tools is a key success factor. Precision and problem-solving skills facilitate troubleshooting and contribute to high-quality development work. Collaboration skills are also important, as projects are often team-based, and good communication facilitates dialogue with colleagues and clients. Showing initiative and drive, for example through personal projects or contributions to open source, provides an extra advantage in the recruitment process.
Key facts about software engineers
- Educational level: Bachelor's or master's degree in data/IT
- Work environment: Mostly office-based, with good opportunities for remote work
- Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationally
- Typical work format: Teamwork within agile projects
- Special skills: Programming languages, system design, and cloud services
Career paths and future prospects
After 3–5 years in the profession, a software engineer can advance to roles such as technical specialist, system architect, team leader, or project manager. Some choose to deepen their expertise in areas like AI, cybersecurity, or cloud platforms. According to the Employment Service's forecast, job opportunities are expected to remain strong, with stable demand over the next five years. However, there is a paradoxical recruitment situation where many leave the profession, while it remains difficult to find the right skills. Currently, there are 179 job openings in the software and systems development field, indicating a continued strong job market.
Common questions about software engineers
- What does a software engineer earn?
- The average salary is 54 900 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, education, and sector.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, men earn on average 55 600 SEK and women 52 700 SEK, which means women earn 95% of men's salaries.
- What education is required to become a software engineer?
- A university or master's degree in computer engineering, computer science, or similar is usually required.
- What are the future prospects for the profession?
- Job opportunities are plentiful, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years according to the Employment Service.
- What tasks does a software engineer perform?
- Development, testing, maintenance, and design of software, as well as troubleshooting and teamwork.
- What is the highest and lowest salary for a software engineer?
- The highest salary is 61,600 SEK and the lowest 40,000 SEK per month, depending on education, sector, and gender.
- Are there regional salary differences?
- Yes, salaries tend to be higher in metropolitan areas and within the private sector.
