Service engineer, electric power

What does a power engineering service engineer do? – Tasks and work environment

A power engineering service engineer primarily works with installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of power facilities and electrical systems. Tasks often include planning and performing service on switchgear, transformer stations, and power grids, as well as handling complex faults that can affect critical societal functions. The work takes place both in the field and in technical environments, meaning the work environment can vary from office-based analysis to practical interventions at customer sites or industrial settings. Safety is central, and service engineers follow strict routines and regulations to minimize risks when working with high voltage and advanced electrical equipment.

Salary development over time

The salary for a power engineering service engineer has shown stable growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,600 SEK per month, rising to 48 800 SEK in both 2023 and 2024. This corresponds to an increase of about 4.7% from 2022 to 2023, but the salary level has remained unchanged since then. This development reflects an increased demand for qualified electrical engineers, while the supply of educated personnel has not kept pace. The market is characterized by recruitment difficulties and a continued high need for technical competence, which may explain the rapid salary increase between 2022 and 2023. Despite the recent stagnation, the profession remains attractive, especially considering stability and good job opportunities.

Power engineering service engineer 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)
• Highest salary: 66,400 SEK/month (men, private sector, research degree); 49,300 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 293 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Women earn on average 46 700 SEK/month (95% of men's salary)

Education and qualifications

To work as a power engineering service engineer, a technical education in electrical engineering or energy is usually required, often at university or vocational college level. Employers also value practical experience and knowledge of current safety regulations. Further training and certifications can be advantageous, especially for those wanting to specialize in certain technical areas or work with advanced systems.

• Vocational college: 2–3 years focusing on power or energy technology
• University engineering degree: 3 years, electrical engineering or energy systems
• Certifications: For example, ESA (Electrical Safety Instructions), work with high voltage
• Internship/trainee: Common part of education
• Prerequisites: Science or technical high school

Common benefits and compensations

Power engineering service engineers are often offered competitive benefits such as company cars, extra vacation days, wellness allowances, and opportunities for further training. Compensation for unsociable hours and on-call allowances are common, especially in shift work or standby duties. Employers also invest in security insurances and pension contributions to attract and retain qualified personnel.

Challenges and competition

The profession is characterized by high demand and good employment opportunities, but also some challenges. The recruitment situation is paradoxical as many are educated, yet filling certain positions can be difficult—often due to requirements for specialized skills and experience. Technological changes and digitalization demand continuous retraining and adaptability. Service engineers must also manage safety risks and sometimes work under pressure, especially during urgent faults or outages. Regional differences may exist, with some areas having greater needs than others.

Tips for aspiring power engineering service engineers

To succeed as a power engineering service engineer, it’s good to have strong problem-solving skills and a genuine interest in technology. Being meticulous and safety-conscious makes both studies and work easier, especially when working with high-voltage installations. Pursuing a broad technical education and taking advantage of internships or trainee positions helps build experience. Good teamwork and clear communication skills are valuable, as the work is often performed in teams or in contact with customers. Flexibility and willingness to further educate oneself contribute to long-term success. Staying updated on new technologies and regulations is also important, as the industry evolves rapidly. Finally, being solution-oriented and able to act quickly in unexpected situations is an advantage.

Key facts about power engineering service engineers

• Salary range: 38,900–66,400 SEK/month
• Average salary: 48 800 SEK/month
• Education level: Vocational college or university engineering (2–3 years)
• Demand: Great opportunities, 564 available jobs
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 95% of men’s salary

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a power engineering service engineer can advance to roles such as technical specialist, project manager, or operations manager within energy companies, industrial firms, or consulting agencies. There are also opportunities to work internationally or in research and development, especially for those who supplement with additional education. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the job market is stable with large opportunities and unchanged demand over five years. However, recruitment is described as challenging, meaning employers compete for qualified staff. The technological development and transition to renewable energy ensure that expertise in power engineering remains highly sought after.

Common questions about power engineering service engineers

• What does a power engineering service engineer earn?
  - The average salary is 48 800 SEK per month, with a range between 38,900 and 66,400 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
• How has the salary development looked for power engineering service engineers?
  - Salaries increased by approximately 4.7% from 2022 to 2023 and have since remained stable.
• What education is required to become a power engineering service engineer?
  - Usually, a vocational college or university engineering degree in power or energy is required.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 46 700 SEK, which is 95% of men's salaries.
• What does the job market look like for power engineering service engineers?
  - Opportunities for employment are very good, with 564 available jobs.
• What benefits are common in the profession?
  - Company cars, wellness allowances, extra vacation, and standby compensation are typical benefits.
• What career paths are available after some years in the profession?
  - Opportunities include advancing to technical specialist, project manager, or operations manager.