Service engineer, telecommunications

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

Telecommunications service engineers work with installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting technical equipment and communication systems. Tasks include everything from installing network equipment, configuring communication solutions, and cable laying to advanced troubleshooting and remote support. The role often involves travel to customer sites and varied work environments – from office landscapes to technical centers and outdoor locations. The work requires precision, problem-solving skills, and the ability to handle both urgent operational disruptions and long-term service assignments.

Salary development over time

The salary for a telecommunications service engineer has shown steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,600 SEK per month, while in 2023 it increased to 48 800. During 2024, the average salary has remained at 48 800, representing a total increase of about 4.7% over the three-year period. The clear rise between 2022 and 2023 can be linked to increased demand for technical expertise in the telecom sector and general salary adjustments in the industry. After this increase, the salary has stabilized, indicating that the labor market has reached an equilibrium between supply and demand for this type of specialist competence.

Telecommunications service engineer salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 48 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,900 SEK/month (male, public sector, pre-high school education)
• Highest salary: 66,400 SEK/month (male, private sector, doctoral degree)
• Lowest salary for women: 41,600 SEK/month
• Highest salary for women: 49,300 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 293 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 95% of men's salaries (46 700 SEK vs 49 200 SEK)

Education and qualifications

To work as a telecommunications service engineer, a technical education at least at high school level is usually required, often supplemented with post-secondary studies in electronics, computer engineering, or telecommunications. Many employers also require certifications and practical experience from the industry. The constantly changing technical requirements make continuous skills development an integral part of the profession.

• Vocational college: 2–3 years in telecommunications, networks, or electronics
• Technical high school: Electrical and energy programs or similar
• Certifications: Examples include Cisco, CompTIA, or equivalent
• Internship: Work-based training or trainee programs
• Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of mathematics, technology, and computers
• Additional courses: Online courses in network technology or security

Common benefits and compensations

Telecommunications service engineers are often offered benefits such as company cars, wellness allowances, mobile phones, skills development, and flexible working hours. Some employers also provide bonus programs, overtime pay, and additional insurance coverage. The industry also offers favorable pension schemes and further education grants.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for telecommunications service engineers is characterized by high demand for expertise, but also by a paradox where many leave the profession while recruitment difficulties persist. Challenges often include quickly adapting to new technologies, managing complex systems, and meeting high standards of availability and service. Since the job involves work at various locations and sometimes irregular hours, flexibility and stress resilience are required. Competition for qualified positions is moderate, but the most attractive roles are filled quickly and often require specialized skills.

Tips for aspiring telecommunications service engineers

To succeed as a telecommunications service engineer, it is good to combine technical curiosity with a willingness to solve problems under time pressure. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with both customers and colleagues in complex projects, while accuracy and responsibility are crucial for delivering high quality even under stressful conditions. Being flexible and ready to quickly learn new technology is also an advantage, as the industry develops rapidly. Practical experience, such as through internships or summer jobs, provides valuable insight into the profession and increases employment prospects. Building a professional network early can open doors to interesting workplaces, and continuous further education allows specialization in areas such as network security or IoT.

Key facts about telecommunications service engineers

• Average salary: 48 800 SEK/month
• Salary range: 38,900–66,400 SEK/month
• Education level: Vocational college or technical high school
• Demand: Great employment opportunities, 564 job openings in the profession
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 95% of men's salaries

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years in the profession, a telecommunications service engineer can advance to roles such as technical specialist, project manager, support manager, or consultant in advanced communication solutions. Many choose to further educate themselves in network design or security to take on more qualified tasks. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, job opportunities within the profession remain large, and demand is expected to stay unchanged over the next five years. Simultaneously, difficulties in recruiting experienced engineers are reported, providing good opportunities for those who want to develop and build a career in the telecom sector.

Frequently asked questions about telecommunications service engineers

• What does a telecommunications service engineer earn?
  - The average salary for a telecommunications service engineer is 48 800 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a telecommunications service engineer?
  - Typically, a technical high school diploma or vocational college degree in telecommunications, electronics, or networks.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn approximately 95% of men's salaries in this profession.
• What is the job market like for telecommunications service engineers?
  - The job market is very favorable with great employment opportunities and 564 job openings within the profession.
• What tasks does a telecommunications service engineer perform?
  - Typical tasks include installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and support of telecommunications systems.
• What career opportunities are there after a few years in the profession?
  - After a few years, you can advance to roles such as technical specialist, project manager, or consultant within telecom.
• How has salary development changed over time?
  - Salaries have increased by approximately 4.7% over the last three years and have stabilized at 48 800 SEK per month.