Control and regulation techniques

What does a control and regulation technician do? – Tasks and work environment

Control and regulation technicians work with installation, operation, and maintenance of systems that control and regulate technical processes, primarily within real estate, industrial facilities, and public buildings. Tasks include troubleshooting, programming, calibration, and optimization of control systems, often linked to ventilation, heating, cooling, and other technical installations. The profession involves both practical on-site work and advanced system analysis on computers. The work environment varies between technical rooms, machine halls, and office settings, and may require travel between different workplaces depending on clients and projects.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salary development for control and regulation technicians has shown a clear upward trend. In 2022, the average salary was 34,100 SEK per month, increasing to 34 700 SEK in 2023. The most significant increase occurred between 2023 and 2024, when the average salary rose to 38 100 SEK, corresponding to an increase of over 9% in one year. Contributing factors include increased digitalization within building automation, high demand for qualified technicians, and a continuous need to upgrade older systems. Although recruitment has been challenging, the market favors those with the right skills, reflected in salary increases.

Control and regulation technician salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 38 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,100 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 47,800 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 229 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 38 300 SEK, women 34,100 SEK (women 89% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a control and regulation technician, a technical high school education with a focus on electricity, automation, or control systems is usually required, often supplemented by postgraduate courses or vocational college. Practical experience and certifications in control systems and building automation are advantageous. Employers also value knowledge in IT, programming, and digital control systems.

• Technical high school: Electrical and energy program or equivalent
• Vocational college: 2–3 years focused on automation or building automation
• Certifications: Examples include KNX, PLC programming, or similar
• Internship: Often completed during education as part of an apprenticeship
• IT and programming skills: Basic understanding of digital control systems

Common benefits and compensations

Control and regulation technicians are often offered benefits such as company cars, wellness allowances, training opportunities, and extra vacation days. In some cases, overtime pay, bonus programs, and pension contributions are included. Public sector employers and larger technology companies may also offer collective agreements and additional insurances.

Challenges and competition

The profession of control and regulation technicians is characterized by high demand and relatively high mobility. The recruitment situation is described as challenging, as many leave the profession while the need for technical skills increases. The move towards increasingly advanced and digitalized systems requires continuous further education and strong problem-solving skills. Competition for the most attractive positions can be significant, especially in metropolitan areas, but the job market is generally very good nationwide. Keeping up with the latest technology and certifications is an important success factor.

Tips for those who want to become control and regulation technicians

To succeed as a control and regulation technician, it’s good to have strong analytical skills and a genuine interest in technology. Being precise and methodical facilitates troubleshooting and working with complex systems, while communication skills are needed to collaborate with colleagues and clients. Flexibility is an important trait since tasks often vary and require quick adjustments. A practical mindset combined with a willingness to continuously learn new techniques and software makes it easier to stay relevant in the job market. Taking the initiative to certifications and further training is also a clear advantage to stand out. The ability to work independently and in teams is highly valued, especially in larger installation projects. Finally, being service-minded and solution-oriented is beneficial, as many assignments involve direct contact with customers and quick decision-making.

Key facts about control and regulation technicians

• Salary range: 34,100–47,800 SEK/month
• Average salary: 38 100 SEK/month
• Gender difference: Women earn 89% of men's salary
• Education level: High school or vocational college
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a control and regulation technician can advance to leadership roles such as project manager, specialist in building automation, or technical consultant. Experience also opens opportunities for supervisory positions or further education in system development and programming of advanced control systems. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast (for the professions electronics repairers and communication electricians), employment opportunities are expected to be strong over the next five years, with continued high demand. Recruitment difficulties and a large number of vacancies (total 481 within the profession) indicate good future prospects for both new and experienced control and regulation technicians.

Common questions about control and regulation technicians

• What is the average salary of a control and regulation technician?
  - A control and regulation technician has an average salary of 38 100 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development been for control and regulation technicians?
  - The average salary has increased from 34,100 SEK (2022) to 38 100 SEK (2024), which corresponds to an increase of just over 11% over three years.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn on average 34,100 SEK and men 38 300 SEK, meaning women earn 89% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a control and regulation technician?
  - Most commonly, a technical high school education or vocational college with a focus on automation, supplemented with certifications.
• What does the job market look like for control and regulation technicians?
  - Opportunities for employment are large nationwide, with high demand and many job openings within the profession.
• What tasks does a control and regulation technician perform?
  - Tasks include installation, operation, troubleshooting, and programming of control systems in buildings and industries.