Network specialist

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

A network specialist is responsible for designing, maintaining, and optimizing organizational data networks. The work includes installing and configuring network equipment, troubleshooting network issues, and monitoring security to protect against intrusions and operational disruptions. The role also involves analyzing performance, suggesting improvements, and collaborating with other IT professionals to ensure a stable and secure network environment. The work environment is usually office-based but can also involve on-site work at customer locations or in server rooms, with periods of high workload during urgent operational issues.

Salary development over time

The salary for network specialists has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 44,400 SEK per month, which increased to 45 900 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has risen further to 48 100 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 8.3% over the period. This positive trend can be linked to increased digitization in both private and public sectors, where demand for advanced network skills has grown rapidly. Higher demands for security, cloud services, and remote work have also driven up salary levels, especially for experienced specialists and those with certifications such as Cisco or security.

Network specialist salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 48 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 42,700 SEK/month (female, private sector)
• Highest salary: 53,800 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education ≥ 3 years)
• Hourly wage: 289 SEK/hour (average, hourly-employed)
• Gender differences: Women earn 88% of what men do (men 48800 SEK, women 43 000 SEK)
• Regional differences: Available data indicate variations between metropolitan regions and other parts of the country, but detailed figures are lacking

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a network specialist usually involves post-secondary education in IT, where university and vocational programs are common options. Practical experience and certifications are highly valued, especially in areas like network security and cloud services. There are also opportunities to acquire relevant knowledge through self-study and online courses, but employers often require formal education combined with practical skills.

• Education: University or vocational education in IT, 2–3 years
• Certifications: Examples include Cisco CCNA/CCNP, CompTIA Network+, Microsoft
• Internship/Trainee: Common at the end of education, often a requirement for employment
• Prerequisites: High school diploma with an IT focus facilitates entry
• Self-study/online: Possible to supplement with courses from platforms like Udemy, Coursera, or similar

Common benefits and compensations

Network specialists often have access to benefits such as wellness allowances, flexitime, remote work options, and professional development budgets. Company pension schemes, extra vacation days, and health insurance are also common, especially with larger employers in the private sector. Compensation for on-call duties may be provided for inconvenient working hours.

Competition and challenges

The competition for roles as a network specialist is moderate to high depending on region and specialization. Since the profession is part of a broader occupational group, opportunities and requirements vary between employers. Keeping up with rapid technological developments and new security standards is an ongoing challenge. The underrepresentation of women in the field affects both salary structures and work environment. Additionally, there is often a need to handle urgent operational disruptions outside regular hours, which can be demanding.

Tips for those who want to become a network specialist

To succeed as a network specialist, it is beneficial to have an analytical mindset, as troubleshooting and problem-solving are core tasks. Being detail-oriented facilitates managing complex systems and documentation, while patience is valuable when unexpected problems arise. Continuous further education and obtaining new certifications are recommended to stay relevant and attractive in the job market. Building a strong network within the IT industry provides access to knowledge exchange and career opportunities. Finally, good communication skills and team spirit are appreciated, as collaboration with other specialists and users is common.

Key facts about the Network Specialist

• Education level: Post-secondary education in IT (2–3 years)
• Work environment: Office-based, sometimes server rooms or on-site at clients
• Typical work arrangement: Full-time, often daytime but sometimes on-call
• Demand: 179 job openings within the profession in Sweden
• Gender distribution: Fewer women, noticeable salary difference

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a network specialist, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as network architect, IT security specialist, or infrastructure project manager. Specializations in areas like cloud services, data centers, or cybersecurity are also common. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, it is difficult to give an exact assessment of the profession due to limited data, but technological development and digitization indicate continued strong demand. Currently, there are 179 job openings in the network and system technician group, indicating a stable labor market. Related professions include IT security specialist, system administrator, and IT architect.

Frequently asked questions about Network Specialist

• What is the average salary of a Network Specialist?
  - The average salary is 48 100 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development looked for network specialists?
  - Salaries have increased from 44,400 SEK (2022) to 48 100 SEK (2024), an increase of about 8% over three years.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn 88% of what men do in the profession.
• What education is required to become a network specialist?
  - Post-secondary education in IT, often 2–3 years, along with certifications like CCNA or equivalent.
• What does the job market look like for network specialists?
  - There are 179 job openings within the profession, indicating continued high demand.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Common paths include network architect, IT security specialist, or infrastructure project manager.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a network specialist?
  - The highest salary is 53,800 SEK/month (male, private sector), the lowest is 42,700 SEK/month (female, private sector).