Station manager, railway

What does a station manager in the railway industry do? – Tasks and work environment

A station manager in the railway industry is responsible for the daily operations and safety at a train station. Tasks include personnel management, coordination of traffic flows, handling customer inquiries, and monitoring technical station systems. The role involves ensuring train departures and arrivals occur according to schedule and that disruptions are managed quickly and efficiently. The work environment is often dynamic and can be both office-based and operational on the station grounds, requiring good communication skills and resilience under stress.

Salary development over time

The salary for railway station managers has shown steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,100 SEK per month, increasing to 39 000 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 40 200 SEK, representing a total increase of just over 8% over three years. This trend reflects increased responsibilities and competence requirements, alongside collective bargaining negotiations and a general wage increase within the transport sector. The demand for qualified transport managers has remained stable, contributing to continued positive salary development, although the growth now appears to level off as the market reaches balance.

Station manager, railway salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 40 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 37,400 SEK/month (female, private sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 42,400 SEK/month (male, public sector, postgraduate education)
• Hourly wage: 242 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 94% of what men do (women: 38 400 SEK, men: 40 900 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary slightly depending on location and employer

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a railway station manager often involves a high school diploma in transport or technology, followed by postgraduate studies in logistics, safety, or transport management. Many employers prefer candidates with experience from the transport sector or leadership roles. Certifications in safety and traffic management are advantageous, as are internships or trainee programs within railway companies.

• High school diploma: Transport or technology program, 3 years
• Post-secondary education: YH training or university courses in logistics, transport management, or safety (1–3 years)
• Certifications: Safety training and/or courses in traffic management
• Internship: Internships or trainee programs with railway operators are recommended
• Prerequisites: Experience from transport or other leadership positions is often required

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to the base salary, benefits such as overtime pay for irregular hours, wellness allowances, occupational pension, subsidized travel, and sometimes training or skill development are common. Some employers also offer extra vacation days or reduced working hours during shift work.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a railway station manager is relatively balanced, meaning there is neither a shortage nor an oversupply of qualified candidates. A challenge is that the role requires both leadership skills and technical understanding, as well as the ability to solve problems quickly under pressure. Many station managers advance to other leadership roles within the transport sector, leading to some turnover, which can create opportunities for new talents. At the same time, employers demand high flexibility, initiative, and resilience.

Tips for those aspiring to become a railway station manager

To succeed as a railway station manager, it is good to develop leadership skills and technical interest. The first step is gaining experience in the transport or logistics industry and demonstrating initiative by taking on coordinating tasks. The ability to handle stress and make quick decisions is crucial, especially during traffic disruptions or unforeseen events. Clear communication and building trust with colleagues and travelers are important, as is being meticulous and attentive to details in complex situations. A continuous desire to learn and stay updated on technical solutions within railway operations also provides advantages. Finally, an interest in safety and regulations should always be central to the work.

Key facts about railway station managers

• Salary range: 37,400–42,400 SEK/month
• Education level: High school diploma + postgraduate education recommended
• Work environment: Shift work, dynamic and occasionally stressful environment
• Gender differences: Women earn approximately 94% of what men do
• Job openings: About 412 within the profession of transport managers and coordinators

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a railway station manager, there are good opportunities to advance to more senior management roles within the railway and transport sectors, such as traffic manager, regional coordinator, or training manager. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service forecast, the prospects for employment in the profession of transport managers and coordinators are moderate, with stable demand and a balanced recruitment situation. Over a five-year horizon, demand is expected to remain unchanged, offering secure future prospects for those with the right background and skills.

Frequently asked questions about railway station managers

• What does a station manager in the railway industry earn?
  - The average salary is 40 200 SEK per month, with a range between 37,400 and 42,400 SEK depending on experience, education, and employer.
• What are the gender differences within the profession?
  - Women earn on average 38 400 SEK, which corresponds to 94% of men’s average salary of 40 900 SEK.
• What education is required to become a station manager?
  - A high school diploma in transport or technology, along with postgraduate studies in logistics, safety, or transport management, is recommended.
• What is the job market like for station managers?
  - The job market is characterized by a balance with moderate opportunities, and just over 400 available positions within the profession.
• What personal qualities are important in the profession?
  - Leadership, resilience under stress, technical interest, and good communication skills are central qualities.
• Are there opportunities for further education?
  - Yes, many employers offer internal and external training programs to strengthen skills in leadership and technology.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Overtime pay, wellness allowances, occupational pension, subsidized travel, and sometimes training or skill development are common benefits.