High current electrician

What does a high-voltage electrician do? – Tasks and work environment

High-voltage electricians are responsible for installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting electrical systems where higher voltage levels are present. Tasks include running and connecting electrical cables in new constructions, modernizing, and repairing existing power networks within industry and public environments. The work is often performed on construction sites, in factories, or at customer locations, involving both indoor and outdoor work. Safety standards are high, and the work requires precision, technical understanding, and the ability to follow detailed instructions. The work environment can vary and sometimes be physically demanding, especially when working at heights or in confined spaces.

Salary development over time

The salary for high-voltage electricians has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average was 34,700 SEK per month, rising to 37 100 SEK in 2023 and further to 37 700 SEK in 2024. The total increase over this three-year period is approximately 8.7%. This positive trend reflects the continued high demand for qualified electricians, especially in the installation and maintenance of power grids and industrial facilities. Wage increases have been mainly driven by skills shortages, increased technical complexity, and the need for specialized training. Despite the positive development, clear gender pay gaps still exist.

High-voltage electrician salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 37 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 33,400 SEK/month (female, private employee, 3-year high school education)
• Highest salary: 42,700 SEK/month (male, private worker, 3 or more years post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 227 SEK (average for hourly workers)
• Gender differences: Women earn 33900 SEK, men earn 37,800 SEK (women earn 90% of men's salaries)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and employer

Education and qualifications

To work as a high-voltage electrician, a high school education focused on electrical and energy programs is usually required, supplemented with practical training or an apprenticeship period. Further education, certifications, and specialized courses in high voltage and electrical safety are often necessary to meet industry requirements. Many employers also seek experience with similar tasks and approved authorizations for working with higher voltages.

• High school education: Electrical and energy program, specialization in electrical engineering (3 years)
• Apprenticeship: Approximately 1–2 years under supervision
• Certifications: Authorization B or equivalent electrical safety training
• Practical skills: Documented experience working with high voltage
• Further education: Opportunities for advanced courses and specialization via vocational colleges or industry courses

Common benefits and compensations

High-voltage electricians often have access to benefits such as work clothing, wellness allowances, and opportunities for further training at the employer’s expense. Company cars, overtime pay, and shift allowances are common, especially during on-call or shift work. Some employers also offer bonus systems linked to project results and additional insurance coverage.

Competition and challenges

The demand for high-voltage electricians remains high, and the job market is characterized by a shortage of qualified personnel, benefiting the profession. At the same time, there are high demands for continuous skills development as technology evolves. Challenges include increasing safety and documentation requirements, as well as the need to quickly adapt to new work methods and regulations. Competition for the most attractive positions may be greater in urban areas, while rural regions often have fewer applicants per vacancy. Additionally, the profession is affected by economic fluctuations in the construction and industrial sectors.

Tips for those who want to become a high-voltage electrician

To succeed as a high-voltage electrician, it’s helpful to have analytical skills, which assist in troubleshooting complex electrical systems. Precision is crucial to ensure both functionality and safety, so always pay attention to details and follow instructions carefully. Being flexible and able to quickly adapt to new technologies and work environments is a big advantage, as the industry develops rapidly. Good teamwork skills facilitate work on larger projects where coordination with other trades is necessary. Finally, initiative is valued, especially when it comes to taking responsibility for your own skills development and solving problems that may arise in daily work.

Key facts about high-voltage electricians

• Salary range: 33,400–42,700 SEK/month
• Average salary: 37 700 SEK/month
• Education level: High school + apprenticeship (total approx. 4–5 years)
• Job market: Great opportunities, 481 available jobs nationwide
• Gender differences: Women earn 90% of men's salaries

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a high-voltage electrician can advance to roles such as lead installer, supervisor, or project manager within electrical installation. There are also opportunities to specialize in areas like industrial automation, high-voltage systems, or energy efficiency. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, demand for installation and service electricians remains high and is expected to stay steady over the next five years. The shortage of skilled electricians means the profession has very good future prospects, especially for those investing in further education and certifications.

Frequently asked questions about high-voltage electricians

• What is the average salary of a high-voltage electrician?
  - The average salary for a high-voltage electrician is 37 700 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a high-voltage electrician?
  - High school education in electrical and energy programs, followed by an apprenticeship period and authorization B.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 33900 SEK while men earn 37,800 SEK, meaning women earn 90% of men's salaries.
• What is the job market outlook for high-voltage electricians?
  - The job market is very good, with 481 available jobs nationwide and continued high demand according to the Employment Service.
• What career opportunities are available within the profession?
  - Common career paths include lead installer, supervisor, project manager, and specialist roles within automation or high voltage.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for high-voltage electricians?
  - The highest salary is 42,700 SEK/month, the lowest is 33,400 SEK/month.