Salary progression Planning engineer, urban planning

Average salary 49 000 kr
Males 49 500 kr
Females 48 700 kr

What does an urban planning engineer do? – Tasks and work environment

An urban planning engineer works on developing and shaping the cities, communities, and infrastructure of the future. The profession involves analyzing, planning, and coordinating land use, traffic solutions, and building development in both larger and smaller municipalities. Tasks range from creating detailed development plans and comprehensive plans to participating in consultations with authorities, residents, and companies. The work is often project-based and requires close collaboration with colleagues in architecture, construction technology, and environmental fields. The work environment is mainly office-based but also includes site visits and meetings with external stakeholders.

Salary development over time

The salary for an urban planning engineer has shown a stable and positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 44,500 SEK, rising to 47 100 SEK (2023), and reaching 4798 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to an increase of approximately 5.8% over the period. The salary development can partly be explained by increased complexity in urban development projects, as well as a demand for higher competence in sustainability and digitalization. The market is characterized by balance, meaning that salary increases are relatively steady and reflect both inflation adjustments and the industry's requirements for experience and education.

Urban planning engineer salary – complete overview

  • Average salary: 4798 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 42,800 SEK/month (men), 42,900 SEK/month (women)
  • Highest salary: 56,600 SEK/month (men), 54,300 SEK/month (women)
  • Hourly wage: 283 SEK
  • Gender differences: Women 48 700 SEK, men 4798 SEK – practically no difference
  • Regional differences: Data on variations are lacking, but salaries are generally consistent nationwide

Education and qualifications

To work as an urban planning engineer, a university degree in urban planning, physical planning, geography, or similar fields is usually required. The educational path is academic and typically involves three to five years of studies. Practical experience through internships or trainee programs is advantageous and can be crucial for securing an initial position in the profession.

  • Bachelor's degree in urban planning, physical planning, or geography (3 years)
  • Master's degree in urban planning or related fields (2 years, optional but advantageous)
  • Internships during studies are highly recommended
  • Courses in GIS, environmental law, and project management are often in demand
  • Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies

Urban planning engineers often have the opportunity to influence tangible urban spaces and environments used daily by people. Seeing their proposals and drawings turn into real buildings or parks is a unique reward in the profession.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Urban planning engineers are often offered benefits such as flexible working hours, wellness allowances, opportunities for remote work, and professional development. Occupational pensions and insurance are usually included, along with subsidized lunches and holiday benefits. In some cases, staff discounts or extra vacation days may be available depending on the employer.

Competition and challenges

The profession is characterized by a balanced labor market where demand for urban planning engineers is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. One of the main challenges is staying updated on new regulations, sustainability goals, and digital tools that are constantly evolving. Competition for the most attractive positions, especially in larger cities or municipalities, can be tough, while opportunities are good in smaller municipalities. The role also requires the ability to handle complex conflicts of interest among various stakeholders and to work under time pressure.

Tips for aspiring urban planning engineers

To succeed as an urban planning engineer, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a strong interest in society and good communication abilities. Seeking internships or summer jobs in the public sector during studies can help build practical experience and contacts. A structured approach aids in managing large amounts of information and complex projects, while curiosity and willingness to learn about new digital tools provide a competitive edge. The ability to collaborate and listen to different interests is crucial in dialogues with colleagues, politicians, and citizens. Continuous further education in areas like sustainable development and GIS is also recommended. Patience and perseverance are important when processes are lengthy and decision pathways complex.

Key facts about urban planning engineers

  • Salary range: 42,800–56,600 SEK/month
  • Average salary: 4798 SEK/month
  • Gender difference: Practically none – women and men earn equally
  • Educational requirements: University degree in urban planning or related fields
  • Job market: Moderate opportunities, approximately 564 job openings in the profession

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as an urban planning engineer, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as project manager, planning architect, or head of urban development. Some choose to specialize in areas like traffic planning, sustainability, or digital planning tools. According to the Employment Service's forecast, the job market is expected to remain balanced nationwide, with demand remaining steady over the next five years. The development is driven by the need for new housing, infrastructure, and sustainable community development, especially in growing regions.

Frequently asked questions about urban planning engineers

  • What does an urban planning engineer earn?
    - The average salary is 4798 SEK per month.
  • Are there salary differences between women and men?
    - No, women and men earn approximately the same within this profession.
  • What education is required to become an urban planning engineer?
    - A university degree in urban planning, physical planning, or related fields is required.
  • What is the job market like for urban planning engineers?
    - Opportunities are moderate, and the job market is considered balanced.
  • What is the highest and lowest salary for an urban planning engineer?
    - The highest salary is 56,600 SEK, and the lowest is 42,800 SEK per month.
  • What benefits are common?
    - Common benefits include flexible working hours, wellness allowances, and remote work options.
  • What are the future prospects?
    - Demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years according to the Employment Service's forecast.

Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Planning engineer, urban planning is 58600 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Municipal sector with a unspecified education. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 56000 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Planning engineer, urban planning is 44300 kr. This salary belongs to a woman also working in the Privately employed workers. The lowest salary for a man in this profession is 48600 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
25-34 98% 42100 kr 42100 kr
35-44 99% 48600 kr 48700 kr
45-54 100% 53800 kr 54000 kr
55-64 102% 55400 kr 55700 kr
Snitt 98% 48900 kr 49000 kr
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession Planning engineer, urban planning has the SSYK code 2163, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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