Planning engineer (electronics), university engineer

What does a planning engineer in electronics do? – Tasks and work environment

A planning engineer in electronics is responsible for planning, coordinating, and optimizing projects within the electronics field. Tasks often include analyzing systems and processes, developing schedules, managing resources, and ensuring projects stay within budget and deadlines. The role also involves working closely with technicians, engineers, and other specialists to solve technical challenges and improve workflows. The work environment is usually office-based but may also involve visits to manufacturing facilities or construction sites, depending on the nature of the projects. Computer-aided project planning, meticulous documentation, and communication with various stakeholders are central parts of daily work.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salary development for planning engineers in electronics has shown a stable but positive trend. In 2022, the average salary was 46,600 SEK per month, increasing to 48 800 in 2023 and remaining at the same level in 2024. This represents a total salary increase of about 4.7% over two years. The most significant increase occurred between 2022 and 2023, while the salary has been unchanged in the past year. This can be explained by continued high demand for electrical engineering skills, though there is some slowdown in the pace of salary increases as the market stabilizes. The industry’s need for specialized competence helps keep salaries competitive.

Planning engineer electronics salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 48 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,900 SEK/month (men, public sector, pre-university education)
• Highest salary: 66,400 SEK/month (men, private sector, research education)
• Highest salary for women: 49,300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary for women: 41,600 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 293 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 95% of what men do (women: 46 700 SEK, men: 49 200 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data varies, but generally higher salaries in metropolitan regions

Education and qualifications

To work as a planning engineer in electronics, a university engineering degree in electrical engineering or electronics is typically required. The education includes theoretical and practical components in electronics, project management, and systems analysis. Many employers also value supplementary courses in project management or experience gained through internships during studies. A combination of technical knowledge and analytical skills is highly valued.

• University engineering degree: 3 years in electronics or electrical engineering
• Certifications: For example, in project management (PMP) or Lean/Six Sigma
• Internships: Strongly recommended during studies to gain industry experience
• Prerequisites: Mathematics and physics at high school level
• Further education: Opportunities for master's or specialized courses

Common benefits and compensations

Planning engineers in electronics are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible working hours, further training, and sometimes bonuses linked to project outcomes. Other common benefits include healthcare insurance and options for remote work, especially within larger companies or consulting firms.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a planning engineer in electronics is relatively low due to high demand in the job market. One of the biggest challenges is staying updated with rapid technological development and increased demands for digitization and automation. Since the role often involves managing multiple projects simultaneously, good organizational skills and stress resilience are required. The recruitment situation is characterized by difficulties in finding the right competence, while many leave the profession for other industries or pursue further education. Long-term success depends on building a strong professional network and continuously developing skills.

Tips for aspiring planning engineers in electronics

To succeed as a planning engineer in electronics, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with precision and good communication abilities. Engaging in projects or internships during studies provides valuable experience and enhances problem-solving skills. Flexibility is an asset, as tasks often vary and require adaptation to new technological solutions. Building networks and collaborating with colleagues from different disciplines contribute to a broader understanding of project management. The ability to structure and prioritize work tasks is crucial for handling multiple projects simultaneously. An interest in technology and a willingness to continue learning are also important factors for long-term success in the profession.

Key facts about planning engineers in electronics

• Average salary: 48 800 SEK/month
• Salary range: 38,900–66,400 SEK/month
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 95% of men's salary
• Educational requirement: University engineering degree in electronics (3 years)
• Job market: Great opportunities, 564 job openings in the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the role as a planning engineer in electronics, there are good opportunities to advance to positions such as project manager, technical manager, or specialist in a specific technical area. The Employment Service’s forecast for engineers and technicians in electrical engineering shows a strong job market, with many opportunities expected even five years ahead. The demand for electronics skills is expected to remain unchanged, but recruitment difficulties persist due to a large need for competence. This creates good conditions for further development and specialization, for example within automation, energy efficiency, or digitalization projects.

Common questions about planning engineers in electronics

• What does a planning engineer in electronics earn?
  - The average salary is 48 800 SEK/month. Men earn on average 49 200 SEK and women 46 700 SEK.
• How has the salary development been for the profession?
  - Salary development has been stable with an increase of approximately 4.7% between 2022 and 2024.
• What education is required?
  - A university engineering degree in electronics or electrical engineering of at least 3 years is usually required.
• Are there many job openings?
  - Yes, there are 564 job openings in the engineering and technician field within electrical engineering.
• How large are the salary differences between women and men?
  - Women earn 95% of what men do in this profession.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries?
  - The highest salary is 66,400 SEK per month and the lowest 38,900 SEK per month, depending on education and sector.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Analytical ability, accuracy, and communication skills are especially important in the role.