Welding engineer

What does a welding engineer do? – Tasks and work environment

A welding engineer works on developing, planning, and quality-assuring welding processes within the industry. Tasks often include technical problem-solving, process optimization, and developing welding procedures for various materials and structures. Welding engineers collaborate closely with production, design, and quality departments to ensure that welded products meet high standards of strength and safety. The work environment can range from office-based work with technical calculations and documentation to shop floors or construction sites where welding is performed and inspected.

Salary development over time

The salary for welding engineers has shown a clear upward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 47,500 SEK per month, increasing to 49 700 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 52 000 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 9.5% over the three-year period. This salary growth reflects continued high demand for technical expertise in welding and mechanical engineering, especially as industry emphasizes quality and safety. Factors such as skills shortages, technological advances, and certification requirements have contributed to rising salary levels within the profession.

Welding engineer salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 52 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 47,800 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 63,000 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 313 SEK
• Women's average salary: 49 900 SEK/month (95% of men's salary)
• Men's average salary: 52 700 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data varies, but higher salaries are common in metropolitan areas and within the private sector.

Education and qualifications

To work as a welding engineer, a university or master's degree in mechanical engineering, materials engineering, or similar fields is usually required. Specialized courses or certifications in welding are often sought after, and practical industry experience is highly advantageous. Many employers also value international welding certificates and experience with quality management.

• Formal degree: University or master's degree (3–5 years)
• Certifications: Examples include IWE (International Welding Engineer), IWSD, or similar
• Internships: Internships or trainee programs are often part of the education
• Prerequisites: Science-oriented high school or equivalent
• Courses/continuing education: Welding-related courses and quality training increase employability

Common benefits and compensations

Welding engineers are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness contributions, flexible working hours, and opportunities for skills development. Other common compensations include overtime pay, project completion bonuses, and sometimes company cars or travel allowances for work at various sites.

Competition and challenges

The competition for welding engineer positions is relatively low due to high industry demand, especially in regions with a strong manufacturing sector. Challenges include high technical requirements, rapid technological changes, and the need for ongoing certification. Many employers report difficulties in finding candidates with the right experience and specialized skills, which can present opportunities for those obtaining sought-after certifications and practical experience. Another obstacle is that the profession requires both theoretical and practical understanding, meaning some candidates need to supplement their education before becoming fully employable.

Tips for aspiring welding engineers

To succeed as a welding engineer, it’s beneficial to combine technical curiosity with precision and good teamwork skills. Focusing on welding courses and gaining industry internships during your studies provides a strong advantage. Engagement in industry organizations and networks can offer valuable contacts, while certifications like IWE enhance your marketability. It’s also important to have analytical skills to solve complex technical problems and to be communicative when working in project teams. Keeping up-to-date with new materials and welding methods opens further career opportunities. Finally, demonstrating initiative and willingness to take responsibility is advantageous, as welding engineers often lead quality assurance in larger projects.

Key facts about welding engineers

• Salary range: 47,800–63,000 SEK/month
• Education level: University or master's degree, often with welding certification
• Job market: Great opportunities, 564 available jobs in the profession
• Typical work environment: Combination of office, workshop, and fieldwork
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 95% of men's salary

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a welding engineer, it is common to advance into specialist roles within welding and materials technology, project management, or quality assurance. Experience and certifications also open opportunities for international work or technical consulting. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast for mechanical engineering graduates, job prospects are high, and demand is expected to remain steady over the next five years. The shortage of experienced welding engineers and ongoing technological development in the industry mean the profession has good future prospects. Job openings are particularly common in metropolitan regions and large industrial companies.

Frequently asked questions about welding engineers

• What is the average salary of a welding engineer?
  - A welding engineer earns an average of 52 000 SEK per month.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a welding engineer?
  - The highest salary is 63,000 SEK and the lowest is 47,800 SEK per month.
• What is the hourly wage for a welding engineer?
  - The hourly wage is 313 SEK.
• Are there gender pay differences among welding engineers?
  - Yes, women earn 95% of what men do in the profession.
• What education is required to become a welding engineer?
  - A university or master's degree in mechanical engineering and a welding certification are recommended.
• What is the job market like for welding engineers?
  - Opportunities are plentiful, with 564 available jobs in the profession.
• What are common benefits for welding engineers?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness contributions, flexible hours, and skills development.