Service technician, train

What does a Service Technician in the train industry do? – Tasks and work environment

A Service Technician in the train industry is responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing the technical systems of trains. Tasks include working with both electrical and mechanical components, troubleshooting control systems, inspecting brakes and doors, and performing routine maintenance according to established safety procedures. The job often involves work in depots, workshops, or directly on the tracks, which requires flexibility and good awareness of the work environment. Work is carried out both during daytime and shifts, as train operations require continuous maintenance and emergency interventions.

Salary development over time

The salary for a Service Technician in the train industry has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,500 SEK per month. The following year, 2023, the average salary rose to 37 900 SEK, representing an increase of about 3.8%. In 2024, the average salary has continued upward and now stands at 39 400 SEK, an increase of an additional 4% from the previous year. This positive trend can be linked to increased demand for qualified technicians in the railway sector, technological advancements, and the need to attract and retain skilled personnel. The salary development also reflects the industry's desire to meet competition for technically proficient staff, as well as the increasingly complex tasks brought by digitalization and modernization of train systems.

Service Technician, train salary – comprehensive 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 employee, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage (average): 237 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 39 500 SEK, women 38 500 SEK (women earn 98% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: No specific regional salary differences available

Education and qualifications

To work as a Service Technician in the train industry, a technical high school education with a focus on electrical, mechanical, or vehicle technology is usually required. Many employers prefer applicants with additional post-secondary education, such as within maintenance or automation. Practical experience in similar roles is often advantageous, as well as certifications in electrical safety and track work.

• Technical high school education: 3 years, e.g., Electrical and Energy Program or Vehicle and Transport Program
• Post-secondary education: Vocational college (1.5–2 years) in track vehicle technology, maintenance, or automation
• Certifications: Electrical safety training, track work (e.g., ESA, Swedish Transport Administration certifications)
• Internship/trainee: Practical components during education or introductory training with employers
• Prerequisites: Basic technical understanding and approved high school diploma

Common benefits and compensations

Service Technicians in the train industry are often offered benefits such as shift allowances, overtime pay, wellness contributions, and sometimes travel discounts within the company. Work clothes, protective equipment, and ongoing skills development are usually included in employment. Some employers also provide extra vacation days or pension contributions beyond collective agreements.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a Service Technician in the train industry is assessed as moderate. According to the Employment Service's forecast, the labor market is balanced, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Technological leaps, digitalization, and automation place increased demands on technical competence and adaptability. Challenges may also arise in recruiting experienced technicians, especially during periods of major infrastructure investments or expansions of public transport. The profession's attractiveness is enhanced by the varied work tasks and the opportunity to contribute to a socially important function.

Tips for those wanting to become a Service Technician in the train industry

To succeed as a Service Technician in the train industry, it is good to be meticulous, have a technical interest, and enjoy solving problems. Analytical skills facilitate troubleshooting and repairing complex systems, while teamwork skills are important since work is often done in teams. Being flexible and able to work at inconvenient hours is an advantage, as railway operations require service around the clock. It is recommended to seek internships early in the industry to build experience and contacts, and to continuously update skills in new technologies. Engagement with safety issues and the willingness to follow routines are crucial for success and job satisfaction. Finally, showing a genuine interest in railway technology and always being ready to learn new things is essential.

Key facts about Service Technician, trains

• Average salary: 39 400 SEK/month
• Salary range: 25,600–41,000 SEK/month
• Education level: High school diploma or vocational college
• Work environment: Workshop, depot, and sometimes outdoors on tracks
• Demand: 481 job openings in the profession, moderate opportunities

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a Service Technician in the train industry, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as supervisor, technical specialist, or instructor. Some choose to further their education towards engineering roles or take responsibility for larger projects within maintenance and modernization of train fleets. According to the Employment Service's job forecast for maintenance mechanics and machine repairers, the labor market is balanced, and demand is expected to be unchanged over the next five years. Digitalization and technological development may lead to changes in tasks over time, but the need for qualified technicians remains, especially in connection with infrastructure expansion and modernization.

Frequently asked questions about Service Technician, trains

• What does a Service Technician, trains, earn?
  - The average salary is 39 400 SEK per month, with a range between 25,600 and 41,000 SEK.
• 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 become a Service Technician, trains?
  - High school education with a technical focus is most common, preferably supplemented with vocational college or certifications.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - According to the Employment Service, the opportunities are moderate and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What work environments are available?
  - Work takes place in workshops, depots, and sometimes outdoors on tracks, often with shift work and varying hours.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Specific regional differences are not available, but generally metropolitan areas may offer slightly higher salaries.