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What does a network planner do? – Tasks and work environment

A network planner works on designing, optimizing, and monitoring technical networks, often within telecommunications or power distribution. The role includes analyzing capacity needs, planning network infrastructure expansion, and ensuring reliable and efficient network operation. Tasks encompass strategic planning and practical troubleshooting, where technical drawings, simulations, and coordination with other specialists are central. The work is often project-based and involves close collaboration with engineers, technicians, and sometimes external suppliers. The work environment is mainly office-based but can also involve site visits for inspection and follow-up of network installations.

Salary development over time

The salary for a network planner has shown steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,600 SEK per month, which increased to 48 800 in 2023 and has remained at this level in 2024. This increase corresponds to approximately 4.7% from 2022 to 2023, after which the salary plateaued. The previous salary increase can be linked to continued high demand for technical skills in network planning, especially with digitalization and infrastructure expansion. Over the past year, the market has stabilized, reflected in the unchanged average salary. Salary levels are also influenced by education, sector (public/private), and geographic location.

Network planner salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 48 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,900 SEK/month (men, public sector, pre-university education); 41,600 SEK/month (women, public sector, pre-university education)
• Highest salary: 66,400 SEK/month (men, private sector, research degree); 49,300 SEK/month (women, private sector, research degree)
• Hourly wage (average): 293 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 46 700 SEK (95% of men's 49 200 SEK)
• Regional differences: No specific data available

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a network planner typically involves a technical degree at university or college level, often with specialization in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or telecommunications. In addition to formal education, experience in network planning, project management skills, and the ability to work with advanced technical systems are often required. Internships and trainee programs are common, especially for recent graduates. Many employers also value certifications and courses in specific networking technologies.

• Formal degree: University or engineering degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or telecommunications (3–5 years)
• Certifications: For example, Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), other specialist courses in networking
• Internship/trainee: Often advantageous, especially for recent graduates
• Prerequisites: Strong knowledge of mathematics, physics, and IT
• Tips: Self-study and online courses to stay updated on new networking technologies

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to base salary, network planners often receive benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible working hours, options for remote work, and training grants for certifications and further development. In some cases, performance bonuses, extra vacation days, and access to technical equipment or company cars are also offered depending on the employer and sector.

Competition and challenges

The profession as a network planner is characterized by high competition for qualified candidates, especially as digitalization drives demand for advanced network solutions. At the same time, recruitment difficulties exist as many leave the profession or switch to other technical roles, creating a paradoxical situation where demand is high but the supply of experienced network planners is limited. Technological innovations and increased security requirements make continuous skills development crucial to remain attractive in the job market. Employers value the ability to quickly learn new technologies and work on complex projects. The industry is dynamic and requires ongoing adaptation to new standards and regulations.

Tips for those who want to become a network planner

To succeed as a network planner, it is good to combine analytical ability with a strong interest in technology and problem-solving. Being meticulous and methodical facilitates planning and optimizing complex networks. Communication is a key factor, as the role often involves collaboration with colleagues from different technical fields and sometimes clients. Continuous learning and curiosity about new technologies make it easier to stay updated in a rapidly changing industry. Flexibility and resilience are also important qualities, especially when projects have tight deadlines or unexpected problems occur. Building a professional network early can provide valuable insights and open doors to exciting projects. Finally, investing time in certifications and further education enhances competitiveness.

Key facts about Network Planners

• Education level: University or engineering degree
• Work environment: Office-based, often project-driven
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment according to the Swedish Public Employment Service
• Typical work form: Full-time, sometimes remote work
• Gender distribution: Dominated by men, but the proportion of women is increasing

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a network planner, opportunities open for more specialized roles, such as senior network planner, project manager, or technical specialist in network design. Some choose to advance into leadership positions within operations, development, or as consultants within larger tech companies. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service show that job opportunities for engineers and technicians in electrical engineering, including network planners, remain strong. Over five years, demand is expected to remain unchanged, providing stable future prospects for the profession. There are also good chances to broaden skills and switch to related technical fields. Currently, there are 564 job openings in the profession, indicating a relatively strong job market.

Common questions about Network Planners

• What does a network planner earn?
  - The average salary for a network planner is 48 800 SEK per month.
• Are there gender differences in salary for network planners?
  - Yes, women earn on average 95% of what men do in the profession.
• What education is required to become a network planner?
  - Most often, a university or engineering degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or telecommunications.
• What are the future prospects for network planners?
  - The Swedish Public Employment Service assesses the job opportunities as large with unchanged demand over the next five years.
• What is the highest salary for a network planner?
  - The highest salary is 66,400 SEK per month and belongs to a man in the private sector with a research degree.
• What does a network planner do?
  - A network planner designs, optimizes, and monitors technical networks, often within telecommunications or power distribution.
• What benefits are common for network planners?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible working hours, and training grants.