Support Engineer, IT

What does a support engineer in IT do? – Tasks and work environment

A support engineer in IT works to solve technical problems and provide qualified support to users, both internally and externally. Common tasks include troubleshooting hardware and software, handling cases via case management systems, installing and upgrading systems, and documenting solutions. The role often involves guiding users via phone, email, or on-site, and sometimes training colleagues or customers in IT-related issues. The work environment is often office-based, but remote work has become increasingly common. Support engineers work in teams or independently depending on the organization’s size, and workload can vary with periods of higher pressure during major upgrades or system outages.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salary development for support engineers in IT has shown a stable and positive trend. In 2022, the average salary was 36,800 SEK per month, increasing to 39 400 SEK in 2023, representing an increase of about 7%. Between 2023 and 2024, the salary further increased to 40 300, a rise of just over 2%. The total salary increase over these three years amounts to nearly 10%. This trend can partly be explained by increased demand for IT skills and digitalization in both private and public sectors. Changes in technology, increased focus on cybersecurity, and the need for more advanced support have also contributed to raising salary levels within the profession.

Support Engineer, IT salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 40 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 36,800 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 48,100 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 242 SEK
• Women: 39 400 SEK/month (97% of men's salary)
• Men: 40 600 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data varies, but top salaries are often found in metropolitan regions and among private sector employees with higher education.

Education and qualifications

To work as a support engineer in IT, a post-secondary education in IT, engineering, or computer science is usually required. Many employers prefer candidates with support experience, but there are also opportunities to start via trainee programs or internships. Certifications in areas such as Microsoft, Cisco, or ITIL are often advantageous, and for some roles, self-study and online courses can be alternatives. Employers value both technical knowledge and good communication skills.

• Post-secondary IT education: Usually 2–3 years (YH, college, or university)
• Certifications: Microsoft, Cisco, ITIL, etc.
• Internships/Traineeships: Provide valuable experience and networking opportunities
• Prerequisites: High school diploma with a technical focus is often a minimum requirement
• Self-study and online courses: Can enhance competitiveness and provide niche skills

Common benefits and compensations

Support engineers in IT are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible hours, remote work opportunities, and professional development through courses and certifications. Other common compensations include occupational pension, mobile phones, and sometimes bonuses for achieving targets. Employers in the industry often focus on creating an attractive work environment to retain skilled employees.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as support engineers in IT varies depending on region and employer, but with increasing digitalization, demand for qualified support remains high. Challenges in the profession include quickly adapting to new technological solutions and managing stressful situations when critical systems are down. Good communication skills are essential for interacting with both technically proficient and less experienced users. To succeed, continuous education and staying updated on new technologies and tools are important. However, salary development may be affected by factors such as automation and outsourcing of simpler support tasks.

Tips for those who want to become support engineers in IT

To succeed as a support engineer in IT, it’s beneficial to have a genuine interest in technology and strong problem-solving skills, enabling quick adaptation to new systems and environments. Patience and attentiveness are crucial for addressing user questions and explaining solutions pedagogically. Building a broad skill base through education and certifications improves career prospects, while developing communication and teamwork skills is equally important. Proactivity and a desire for continuous learning allow you to stay ahead in the industry and take on more advanced tasks. Networking and participating in industry forums can provide valuable contacts and insights into new trends. Finally, managing stress and prioritizing tasks are essential for delivering high-quality service under pressure.

Key facts about Support Engineer, IT

• Salary range: 36,800–48,100 SEK/month
• Average salary: 40 300 SEK/month
• Education level: Post-secondary education (2–3 years), often supplemented with certifications
• Work environment: Office-based or hybrid/remote, often in teams
• Number of job openings: 179 available positions in the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a support engineer in IT, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as system administrator, IT specialist, technical project manager, or operations technician. Some choose to specialize in areas like networking, security, or cloud services, while others move into roles in IT architecture or consulting. According to the latest forecasts from the Employment Service, there is no exact assessment for this specific job title, but the broader Support Technician, IT, group shows stable demand with many available positions. Digitalization and increased requirements for IT security are expected to continue driving the need for qualified support staff in the future. Career opportunities are numerous, especially for those who continuously pursue further education and certifications in new technologies.

Frequently asked questions about Support Engineer, IT

• What does a Support Engineer, IT earn?
  - The average salary for a support engineer in IT is 40 300 SEK per month, with a range between 36,800 and 48,100 SEK.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn on average 39 400 SEK and men 40 600 SEK, which means women earn 97% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a support engineer in IT?
  - Post-secondary education in IT or engineering (2–3 years) is most common, often supplemented with certifications.
• What is the job market like for support engineers in IT?
  - The job market is stable with 179 available positions, but automation may impact simpler roles.
• What are the most common tasks for a support engineer in IT?
  - Troubleshooting, user support, system maintenance, and documentation are central tasks.
• Are there regional salary differences for support engineers in IT?
  - Yes, higher salaries are often found in metropolitan areas and among private sector employees with higher education.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Opportunities include advancing to IT specialist, system administrator, or project manager.