Service technician, automation technician

What does a service technician in automation do? – Tasks and work environment

A service technician specializing in automation is responsible for installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of automated systems within industries such as manufacturing, real estate, and infrastructure. Tasks often include programming and configuring control systems, as well as replacing and repairing electrical or mechanical components. Regular contact with customers and operational staff is common, along with documenting completed work. The work environment can vary between factories, offices, machine rooms, and sometimes outdoor settings, requiring flexibility and safety consciousness.

Salary development over time

The salary level for service technicians in automation has shown a clear upward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 34,100 SEK per month, increasing to 34 700 SEK in 2023. The latest data for 2024 indicates an average salary of 38 100 SEK, representing a salary increase of approximately 11.7% since 2022. This positive development can largely be explained by increased demand for technical skills in automation, especially as industry and society digitize. The salary increase also reflects higher demands for technical education and certifications, as well as a competitive situation where employers need to offer attractive conditions to recruit and retain qualified personnel.

Service technician, automation technician salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 38 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,100 SEK/month (woman, unspecified education)
• Highest salary: 47,800 SEK/month (man, public sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage (average): 229 SEK/hour
• Women earn: 34,100 SEK/month (89% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 38 300 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salary levels can vary depending on region and sector, with higher salaries in metropolitan areas and within the public sector.

Education and qualifications

To work as a service technician in automation, a high school education with a technical focus is usually required, often supplemented by post-secondary studies or certifications in automation, electrical, or electronics. Practical work experience is highly valued, and many employers also seek specialized courses in control and regulation technology as well as programming automation systems. Industry-specific certifications and driver’s licenses may also be required depending on the employer and workplace.

• High school education: Electrical and energy program or technology program (3 years)
• Post-secondary studies: Vocational college, university college or university (1–3 years, often automation technology or electrical engineering)
• Certifications: Examples include ESA, Hot Work, and PLC programming
• Internship: On-the-job training or trainee programs are common
• Prerequisites: Basic technical interest and problem-solving skills

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits include company cars, wellness allowances, extra vacation days, and the possibility of overtime pay. Some employers also offer bonus programs, training grants, or access to work clothing and tools. The extent of benefits may vary depending on the employer, collective agreement, and employment type.

Competition and challenges

The profession as a service technician in automation is characterized by a paradoxical recruitment situation: while there are great opportunities for employment, employers find it difficult to find the right skills. Many leave the profession, creating a continuous need for new recruitment. However, competition for these positions is relatively low for those with the right education and experience. Challenges in the profession include rapid technological development, demands for continuous training, and working under time pressure during emergency shutdowns. The work environment can sometimes be demanding both physically and mentally, especially during on-call and readiness duties.

Tips for aspiring automation service technicians

To succeed as a service technician in automation, it is good to have analytical skills, as troubleshooting and problem-solving are central parts of the work. A genuine technical interest makes it easier to quickly acquire new knowledge, especially as technology develops rapidly. Being communicative and pedagogical facilitates collaboration with customers and colleagues, especially when explaining technical solutions. Flexibility is important since work environments and tasks often vary between different projects and locations. Initiative and independence help take responsibility for your own tasks, while thoroughness and safety awareness must always be prioritized in professional practice.

Key facts about Service Technicians, automation technicians

• Average salary: 38 100 SEK/month
• Salary range: 34,100–47,800 SEK/month
• Gender salary difference: Women earn 89 % of what men do
• Education requirements: High school or post-secondary technical education
• Job market: 481 job openings in the profession in Sweden

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, opportunities open up for more qualified roles such as programming or operational reliability specialists, project managers for larger automation projects, or technical sales. Some choose to further their education to become engineers or move into managerial positions. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, the job market outlook remains good, with significant opportunities and a demand expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. The rapid technological development and increased digitization within industry imply that demand for this expertise will be stable, although employers also report recruitment difficulties, indicating continued good career prospects.

Frequently asked questions about Service Technicians, automation technicians

• What does a Service Technician, automation technician earn?
  - The average salary is 38 100 SEK per month, with a range between 34,100 and 47,800 SEK.
• How does the salary differ between men and women?
  - Men earn an average of 38 300 SEK, and women 34,100 SEK, which means women earn approximately 89% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a service technician in automation?
  - Usually, technical high school education and often post-secondary studies in automation or electrical/electronics are required.
• What is the job market like for service technicians in automation?
  - Opportunities for employment are large, with over 481 job openings in the profession in Sweden.
• What development opportunities are available within the profession?
  - After a few years, you can advance to specialist, project leader, or further education to become an engineer.
• What is the work environment like?
  - The work environment varies between factories, machine rooms, and sometimes outdoor settings, often with demands for flexibility and safety.
• What are common benefits in the profession?
  - Company cars, wellness allowances, overtime pay, and training opportunities are common.