Motorcycle driver

What does a motorvagnsförare do? – tasks and work environment

A motorvagnsförare's primary task is to operate train vehicles for passenger or freight transport on the railway. The work involves responsibility for onboard safety, adhering to schedules, and following regulations. Continuous communication with traffic control and colleagues is a natural part of the workday. The work environment is characterized by shift work, which can include early mornings, late evenings, and weekends. Motorvagnsförare often work independently in the driver’s cab but collaborate closely with other staff to maintain punctuality and safety. The profession demands high attention, stress tolerance, and the ability to act quickly in unexpected situations.

Salary development over time

The salary for motorvagnsförare has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 40,800 SEK per month, increasing to 41 900 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 43 100 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 5.6% during this period. This positive salary trend can partly be explained by increased demand for qualified drivers in the railway sector and adjustments in collective agreements. Employers also need to offer competitive salaries to attract and retain experienced drivers, especially since shift work and safety responsibilities require special skills and reliability. The salary range within the profession has also widened, with some variation depending on region, experience, and employer.

Motorvagnsförare salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 43 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 40,300 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 45,100 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 259 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 43 200 SEK, women 42 600 SEK (women earn 99% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Some variation exists, where regional sectors can influence salary levels.

Education and qualifications

To work as a motorvagnsförare, a high school diploma followed by specialized train driver training is generally required. The training includes both theoretical and practical components, including safety regulations, vehicle technology, and practical training at railway companies. After completing the training, a health examination and certification are required. Experience from similar technical professions or the transportation sector can be advantageous.

• Formal education: High school diploma plus train driver training (about 1 year)
• Certification: Train driver license according to the Transport Agency's requirements
• Practical training: Mandatory internship included in the training
• Prerequisites: Good vision, hearing, and overall health
• Tips for choosing: Interest in technology and safety is an advantage

Common benefits and compensations

Motorvagnsförare are often covered by collective agreements that include benefits such as night shift supplements for evening and weekend work, extra vacation, wellness allowances, and occupational pension. Other common compensations include per diems for overnight stays and compensation for work during major holidays. Working hours are often scheduled and sometimes allow for longer periods of consecutive leave.

Competition and challenges

The profession as a motorvagnsförare is characterized by a relatively stable job market, but competition can vary depending on the region and employer. Since the profession requires special training and certification, entry barriers are high, reducing the number of potential applicants. At the same time, shift work and safety responsibilities pose physical and mental challenges. Technical changes and new safety requirements demand ongoing training. The shortage of drivers in certain regions can create good opportunities for newly trained individuals, while competition is higher in areas with more trained candidates.

Tips for those wanting to become a motorvagnsförare

To succeed as a motorvagnsförare, it is good to be thorough, resilient under stress, and have a strong safety mindset. Developing good communication skills facilitates collaboration with traffic control and colleagues, which is crucial for a smooth workday. Flexibility and adaptability help with shift work and unforeseen events on the railway. An interest in technology and willingness to learn new systems make it easier to handle the technical aspects of the job. It is also important to prioritize health, as the profession demands good eyesight and hearing. Seeking internships or summer jobs in the railway sector can provide valuable insight and contacts. Finally, be prepared to work independently and take responsibility in pressurized situations.

Key facts about motorvagnsförare

• Education level: High school diploma + train driver training (about 1 year)
• Work environment: Independent work in the driver’s cab, shift work common
• Employment type: Permanent employment most common, some hourly contracts
• Demand: 412 available jobs in the profession at the latest measurement
• Special skills: Safety, vehicle technology, railway regulations

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience as a motorvagnsförare, opportunities may open for further training as an instructor, traffic controller, or other leadership roles within the railway sector. Some choose to specialize in more advanced vehicles or longer routes with international traffic. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, there is limited statistics for motorvagnsförare, but within the train driver group, there were 412 available jobs at the latest measurement, indicating continued demand. Since the industry is technology-intensive and society’s need for sustainable transport increases, the profession is expected to remain relevant in the long term. However, future prospects are influenced by factors such as investments in railway infrastructure and political decisions regarding public transport.

Frequently asked questions about motorvagnsförare

• What is the average salary of a motorvagnsförare?
  - The average salary is 43 100 SEK per month.
• How does the salary differ between men and women?
  - Men earn 43 200 SEK and women 42 600 SEK; women earn 99% of men's salary.
• What education is required to become a motorvagnsförare?
  - High school diploma plus train driver training (about one year) and certification are required.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salary levels can vary depending on the region and employer.
• What is the job market like for motorvagnsförare?
  - The latest measurement showed 412 available jobs within the profession.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for motorvagnsförare?
  - The highest salary is 45,100 SEK, and the lowest is 40,300 SEK.
• What personal qualities are important in the profession?
  - Attention to detail, stress resilience, responsibility, and technical interest are important qualities.