Welders, el

What does an electrician welder do – tasks and work environment

An electrician welder primarily works with joining and repairing various components and structures made of metal, where electric welding is used as the method. Tasks include manufacturing, maintenance, and repair of electrical installations in, for example, industrial buildings, power plants, or large infrastructure facilities. The work demands high precision, safety awareness, and knowledge of materials and electrical systems. The work environment can vary from workshops and factories to outdoor settings, often involving heavy lifting and exposure to heat, noise, and sometimes confined spaces.

Salary development over time

The average salary for an electrician welder has steadily increased over recent years. In 2022, the average was 32,600 SEK per month, rising to 34 000 SEK in 2023, and reaching 35 900 SEK in 2024. This represents an increase of about 10% over three years, slightly above the general wage growth in the industry sector. The trend reflects a continued high demand for qualified welders, especially those with electrical skills, with technological development and increased certification requirements driving salary levels up. Regional variations in the job market also influence wages, with larger industrial regions often offering slightly higher salaries.

Electrician welder salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 35 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 32,500 SEK/month (men, government sector)
• Highest salary: 38,200 SEK/month (men, private sector, post-secondary education shorter than 3 years)
• Hourly wage: 216 SEK
• Women's average salary: 32,800 SEK/month (91% of men's salary)
• Men's average salary: 36 100 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Wage levels vary depending on region and demand in the labor market

Education and qualifications

To work as an electrician welder, a high school vocational education with a focus on welding is generally required, often supplemented with specific courses in electrical welding. Many employers also require certifications that verify competence in specific welding methods and safety regulations. Practical experience is highly valuable and often necessary for employment. For those wishing to specialize further, advanced courses and certifications in automated or advanced welding are available.

• High school education: Industrial technology program with a focus on welding (3 years)
• Certifications: Welding tests/certificates according to SS-EN ISO 9606
• Internship: On-the-job training (OJT) during education
• Advanced courses: Electrical welding, robotic welding, safety
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition and technical interest

Common benefits and compensations

Electrician welders with electrical skills are often offered benefits such as extra vacation, wellness allowances, work clothing, protective gear, and opportunities for skills development through internal and external courses. Many employers also provide insurance against work injuries and collective pension schemes, offering security beyond the base salary. Shift or overtime work usually includes additional pay for evening, night, or overtime hours.

Competition and challenges

The profession of electrician welder is characterized by a paradoxical labor market where recruitment difficulties coexist with relatively high unemployment. Despite large national opportunities, according to the Employment Service, the right certifications and specialized skills are often required to be attractive on the job market. Competition can be fierce for the most desirable positions, especially in regions with many applicants and a limited number of large employers. Technical requirements and the need for continuous skills development mean that those who want to stay in the profession must regularly update their knowledge and follow industry developments.

Tips for aspiring electrician welders

To succeed as an electrician welder, it is good to have strong problem-solving skills and be meticulous, as the work often requires precision and safety awareness. Technical interest facilitates both training and understanding of different welding methods and electrical systems. Flexibility and adaptability to various work environments are important, as projects and workplaces can vary. Teamwork skills are also key, since the work is often performed in teams with other professionals. Initiative and willingness to develop are crucial, as technology and requirements evolve quickly in the industry. Taking the initiative to pursue further training and certifications can open doors to more qualified and better-paid positions. Good physical health is also beneficial, as the work can be physically demanding.

Key facts about Electrician Welders

• Salary range: 32,500–38,200 SEK/month
• Average salary: 35 900 SEK/month
• Education level: High school education with certification
• Demand: Great opportunities for work nationwide
• Typical work form: Project-based with varied workplaces

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, electrician welders have good opportunities to advance to more specialized roles, such as welding supervisor, supervisor, or technical specialist in welding automation. Many choose to further their education in specific welding methods or obtain certifications for working with advanced materials and processes. According to the Employment Service's forecast, the prospects for employment within the entire group of welders and gas cutters are expected to remain strong over the next five years, with demand remaining stable. Those investing in further training and certifications have especially good chances for a stable and developing career.

Frequently asked questions about Electrician Welders

• What does an electrician welder earn?
  - An electrician welder has an average monthly salary of 35 900 SEK.
• How large is the pay gap between men and women?
  - Women earn approximately 91% of men's salaries, with an average of 32,800 SEK compared to men's 36 100 SEK.
• What education is required to become an electrician welder?
  - High school education with a focus on welding and certifications in electrical welding are most common.
• What are the job prospects for the profession?
  - Opportunities for employment are large, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What is the highest salary for an electrician welder?
  - The highest reported salary is 38,200 SEK/month for men and 33,200 SEK/month for women.
• What common benefits are included in the profession?
  - Extra vacation, wellness allowances, work clothing, protective gear, and collective insurance are common.
• How many job openings are available in the profession?
  - There are approximately 1,437 available jobs within the welding and gas cutting profession.