Station technician, electric power

What does a power substation technician do? – Tasks and working environment

A power substation technician is responsible for operation, maintenance, and modernization of electrical facilities, mainly in transformer and distribution stations. Tasks include troubleshooting, repairing, and preventive maintenance of electrical equipment and control systems, as well as installing new components. The work is often performed in teams and can involve both planned interventions and emergency calls. The working environment is varied and may include outdoor work in changing weather conditions, working at heights, and environments with high safety standards.

Salary development over time

Power substation technicians have experienced steady salary growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,300 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 37 100 SEK and in 2024, the average salary has reached 38 300 SEK. This represents a total increase of approximately 5.5% over three years. The salary increase is mainly linked to a rising demand for technical expertise in the power sector, as well as general salary trends in technical professions in Sweden. Technological development and the need for secure operation of power grids also contribute to the increasing value of the profession.

Power substation technician, power sector salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 38 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,700 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 42,200 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 230 SEK
• Men's average salary: 38 500 SEK/month
• Women's average salary: 36 600 SEK/month
• Women earn: 95 % of men's salaries

Education and qualifications

To work as a power substation technician, a technical high school education with a focus on electrical and energy technology is usually required, often supplemented with post-secondary courses or YH training in power or automation. Practical experience from electrical environments is highly valued, as is knowledge of safety regulations and control systems. Certifications and further training in electrical safety, automation, and work environment are often advantageous.

• Technical high school: Electrical and energy program (3 years)
• YH training: 2–3 years in power or automation
• Certifications: ESA (Electrical Safety Instructions), Hot Work
• Internship: Apprenticeship or practical training during studies
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility in mathematics, physics, and electrical engineering

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for power substation technicians include extra vacation days, wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and overtime pay. Further training, work clothes, and compensation for inconvenient working hours are often offered. Some employers also provide occupational pension schemes and health insurance.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a power substation technician is considered balanced, with moderate opportunities according to the Swedish Public Employment Service forecast. Technological development and increased demands for digital skills mean the role is changing rapidly, requiring continuous updating of knowledge. Automation and smart grids may reduce the need for some tasks in the long run, but at the same time, there is an increasing demand for specialized skills and problem-solving abilities. The work environment can be demanding, especially when working in the field and during emergency situations.

Tips for those who want to become a power substation technician

To succeed as a power substation technician, it is important to be precise and have a structured approach, as troubleshooting and safety routines must be followed exactly. Being solution-oriented and comfortable with technical challenges facilitates daily work, as does having good teamwork skills since work is often performed in teams. Patience and stress resilience are important qualities during emergency interventions where quick decisions are required. Those investing in further training and certifications in electrical engineering often have more career opportunities. It is also wise to have an interest in new technology and digitalization, as the industry develops rapidly. Finally, practical experience from summer jobs or internships provides a valuable foundation for entering the profession.

Key facts about power substation technicians

• Salary range: 30,700–42,200 SEK/month
• Education level: High school + YH or equivalent
• Work environment: Varied – indoor and outdoor, often with high safety standards
• Demand: Moderate, 481 available jobs in the occupation group
• Gender salary difference: Women earn 95 % of men's salaries

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a power substation technician, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as supervisor, project manager, or specialist in automation solutions and high-voltage systems. There are also opportunities to work within larger energy companies or consulting firms, focusing on the development of future power grids. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the demand for operation technicians at heat and water plants, including power substation technicians, is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. The technological development and transition to sustainable energy also make digital skills and new control systems increasingly important.

Frequently asked questions about power substation technicians

• What does a power substation technician earn?
  - The average salary is 38 300 SEK per month, with a range between 30,700 and 42,200 SEK.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn an average of 36 600 SEK while men earn 38 500 SEK, meaning women earn 95% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a power substation technician?
  - Most commonly, a technical high school with a focus on electrical engineering, often supplemented with YH training in power or automation.
• Are there many jobs in this profession?
  - Yes, there are 481 available jobs within the occupation group of operations technicians at heat and water plants, including power substation technicians.
• What are the future prospects for power substation technicians?
  - Demand is assessed as moderate and expected to remain unchanged over five years according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Benefits include wellness allowances, overtime pay, extra vacation days, and further training.
• What is the working environment like?
  - Work takes place both indoors and outdoors and can involve working at heights, with high safety standards and sometimes during inconvenient hours.