Service technicians, life rafts

What does a service technician specializing in life rafts do? – Tasks and work environment

A service technician with a focus on life rafts is responsible for inspection, service, maintenance, and repair of life rafts and other safety equipment on ships and boats. The work involves ensuring that all life-saving equipment functions correctly and meets national and international safety standards. The work environment can range from workshop settings to work onboard ships, sometimes in ports and sometimes under tight deadlines. Attention to detail, safety consciousness, and the ability to follow detailed routines are crucial in this role.

Salary development over time

The profession of service technician, life rafts has shown a positive salary development in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,500 SEK per month, increasing to 37 900 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary reached 39 400 SEK, which corresponds to an increase of approximately 8 percent over the three-year period. This development can partly be explained by increased demand for specialized technical skills and a greater focus on safety in the maritime sector. At the same time, salaries have been influenced by the industry's general skill requirements and technological advancements, where more advanced equipment demands higher education levels and specialization. Despite a relatively stable job market, the salary increase has been clear, reflecting the importance of the role in the safety chain.

Service technician, life rafts salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 39 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,600 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 41,000 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage: 237 SEK
• Men earn: 39 500 SEK
• Women earn: 38 500 SEK (98% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data varies depending on location and employer

Education and qualifications

To work as a service technician focusing on life rafts, a technical high school education is usually required, preferably with specialization in shipping, mechanics, or electrical engineering. Many employers also seek certifications in safety equipment and specialized courses in life-saving systems. Practical experience and the ability to handle documentation according to international regulations are advantageous.

• High school education: Technology, shipping, or vehicle, 3 years
• Post-secondary education: YH/KY training in maintenance or maritime safety (1–2 years)
• Certifications: Courses in life-saving equipment, fire safety, and international safety standards
• Internship: Often required, such as internships or trainee positions in shipping or technical service
• Prerequisites: Good mechanical skills and knowledge of safety routines

Common benefits and compensations

Service technicians specializing in life rafts are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, work clothing, travel reimbursement, and opportunities for further training and certification courses. Company cars and overtime pay may be included, especially for fieldwork or working during inconvenient hours. In some cases, insurance and access to employee support are provided.

Challenges and competition

The job market for service technicians, life rafts, is considered balanced, with moderate employment opportunities according to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast. Demand for this profession is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, partly due to automation and technological development. Competition for positions can vary regionally and depending on specialized skills within safety equipment. A challenge is to stay updated on changing regulations and new technical standards. Problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently are highly valued in this role.

Tips for those wanting to become a service technician, life rafts

To succeed as a service technician, life rafts, it is good to be meticulous and have a strong safety awareness, as the work requires examining every detail according to strict rules. Technical curiosity facilitates quickly understanding new systems and products, while good teamwork skills are important when working in teams or with international suppliers. Flexibility and stress resistance help during urgent interventions or work under time pressure, and an interest in shipping provides extra motivation. Practical experience through internships or summer jobs is recommended to develop skills, and pursuing relevant certifications early in your career is wise.

Key facts about service technicians, life rafts

• Education level: High school or post-secondary education in technology/shipping
• Work environment: Workshops, ships, and port areas
• Demand: 481 job openings nationwide within the profession
• Work hours: Often daytime, some travel and shift work may occur
• Special skills: Certification in life-saving equipment and international safety regulations

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a service technician, life rafts, can advance to specialist roles in safety inspection, supervisory positions, or further education as a technical consultant in maritime safety. Some choose to work with international shipping companies or certification agencies, while others specialize in training and mentoring new technicians. The Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast indicates that job opportunities for maintenance mechanics and machine repairers, including this role, are moderate and expected to remain unchanged over five years. Technological advancements and increased safety requirements may create new niches for specialists in life-saving equipment.

Common questions about service technicians, life rafts

• What does a service technician, life rafts earn?
  - The average salary is 39 400 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience and employer.
• How do salary differences between men and women look?
  - Men earn on average 39 500 SEK and women 38 500 SEK, which means women earn 98% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to work as a service technician, life rafts?
  - A high school education in technology or shipping is recommended, preferably supplemented with post-secondary courses and certifications.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries and employment conditions vary depending on location and employer.
• What does the job market look like?
  - Opportunities are moderate, and demand is expected to be unchanged over the next five years.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries?
  - The highest salary is 41,000 SEK (male, private sector), and the lowest is 25,600 SEK (female, municipal sector).
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Attention to detail, safety awareness, and technical interest are key qualities in this role.