Test engineer, construction

What does a testing engineer in construction do – tasks and work environment

A testing engineer in construction is responsible for ensuring quality and safety in construction projects by performing and analyzing various tests on building materials, structures, and technical installations. Tasks include planning and executing tests according to established standards, documenting results, and reporting to project managers and clients. The role often involves site inspections, laboratory work, and collaboration with designers, contractors, and authorities. The work environment can vary between offices, laboratories, and construction sites, combining administrative and practical tasks that require precision and analytical skills.

Salary development over time

The salary for construction testing engineers has shown a clear upward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 45,900 SEK per month, increasing to 49 900 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 50 200 SEK per month, representing an increase of approximately 9% over three years. This salary growth reflects increased demand for technical expertise in the construction sector and a growing need for quality assurance as projects become more complex. Market demands for sustainability and safety have also contributed to raising the profession's status and salary levels. At the same time, competition for experienced engineers has led employers to offer better conditions to attract and retain the right talent.

Testing engineer, construction salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 50 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 41,400 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school education, up to 2 years experience)
• Highest salary: 57,900 SEK/month (female, government sector, doctoral degree)
• Hourly wage: 302 SEK
• Men's average salary: 51 200 SEK/month
• Women's average salary: 47 300 SEK/month (92% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salary variations may occur depending on region and employer

Education and qualifications

To work as a testing engineer in construction, a technical university degree in construction technology, civil engineering, or equivalent is usually required. Practical experience and certifications in testing and quality assurance are highly valued. In some cases, relevant work experience can compensate for formal education, but basic technical understanding and analytical skills are essential.

• Education: Bachelor's degree in construction, 3 years
• Further training: Courses in testing, quality assurance, and building standards
• Certifications: Examples include AMA, ISO 9001, or equivalent
• Internship: Work placements are often advantageous
• Prerequisites: High school diploma with a technical focus is recommended

Common benefits and compensations

Construction testing engineers are often offered competitive benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible hours, and extra vacation days. Depending on the employer, further training, bonus programs, and company cars may also be available. Some workplaces provide additional insurances and options for remote work for administrative tasks.

Competition and challenges

The market for construction testing engineers is characterized by a balance between supply and demand. There are 379 job openings in the profession, indicating good opportunities for qualified candidates. Challenges include high technical requirements, constantly changing building standards, and the need to stay updated on new standards and digital tools. The role also requires the ability to handle stress and work carefully under tight deadlines, especially in large projects with many stakeholders. Competition for the most attractive positions can be fierce, particularly in metropolitan areas, where salary levels tend to be higher.

Tips for aspiring construction testing engineers

To succeed as a construction testing engineer, it is beneficial to combine technical curiosity with an analytical mindset. A good first step during education is to seek internships that allow working with testing and quality control, which enhances both experience and confidence. Precision and systematic work are crucial, as the role demands accurate analysis and documentation. Good communication skills are also important, since reporting results and collaborating with various professionals are common tasks. Those interested in technical innovations have good opportunities to stand out, especially if skills in digital tools and measurement technology are developed. Flexibility and the ability to quickly adapt to new work environments are also valuable, as projects vary in scope and nature. Continual further education and staying updated on standards and regulations provide an advantage in the competitive landscape.

Key facts about construction testing engineers

• Education level: Bachelor's degree or equivalent (3 years)
• Work environment: Varies between office, laboratory, and construction site
• Demand: Moderate but increasing according to the Employment Service
• Typical work arrangement: Full-time with flexible hours
• Special skills: Measurement technology, material testing, building standards

Career paths and outlook

After 3–5 years in the profession, opportunities open for more qualified roles such as project manager, measurement technology specialist, or quality assurance lead, as well as responsibility for larger testing projects. Some choose to further their education to become a civil engineer or specialize in areas like strength of materials or digital construction processes. According to the Employment Service's forecast, the job market is balanced nationally, but demand is expected to grow over the next five years. This is partly due to increased need for technical expertise as digitalization and automation gain prominence in the construction and infrastructure sectors. Currently, there are 379 job openings, signaling good future prospects for those pursuing this career.

Frequently asked questions about construction testing engineers

• What does a construction testing engineer earn?
  - The average salary is 50 200 SEK per month, but varies depending on experience, education, and sector.
• How to become a construction testing engineer?
  - The most common route is a university engineering degree in construction technology, supplemented with practical experience and certifications.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 92% of what men do in the profession.
• What are the duties of a testing engineer?
  - Main tasks include performing and analyzing tests on building materials and structures, and reporting results.
• What is the job market like for testing engineers?
  - The job market is balanced, but demand is expected to increase in the coming years according to the Employment Service.
• What benefits are common?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible hours, and opportunities for further training.
• What career opportunities exist after a few years in the profession?
  - Opportunities include becoming a project manager, specialist, or furthering education to become a civil engineer.