Technical operation manager

What does a technical operation manager do – tasks and work environment

A technical operation manager in broadcast and streaming technology is responsible for ensuring the operation and development of technical systems in media production, especially within TV, radio, and streaming. The role often involves leading technical teams, planning and monitoring broadcasts, handling technical incidents, and working closely with both production and technical departments. The work environment varies between offices, control rooms, and production sites where quick decision-making and precision are crucial. The work sometimes involves irregular hours, especially during live broadcasts or major productions, requiring the ability to handle pressure and complex technology.

Salary development over time

Salaries for technical operation managers have shown a clear upward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,400 SEK per month, increasing to 39 700 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has reached 41 700 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 11.5% over the period. This salary development reflects the increased demand for technical expertise in the media industry, especially with digitalization and higher quality demands in productions. Higher education levels and specialized experience have also contributed to rising salaries. The market's need for reliable solutions and technical leadership makes the profession still attractive, which is also reflected in the number of available jobs.

Technical operation manager salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 41 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 35,200 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, at least 3 years post-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 47,200 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, unspecified education level)
• Hourly wage: 251 SEK
• Women's salary as a percentage of men's: 85% (37 800 SEK for women, 44 700 SEK for men)
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a technical operation manager usually involves technical education in media, IT, or electronics, supplemented with experience from production and operations. Employers typically require higher education and documented experience in technical leadership and project work. Certifications in specific systems or broadcast technology can be advantageous, as well as the ability to work cross-functionally in teams.

• Higher education: 3–4 years in engineering, media, or IT
• Internships: Industry-specific internships or trainee programs in broadcast technology
• Certifications: Courses in broadcast systems, networking, and project management
• Prerequisites: Basic technical understanding and experience in media production
• Self-study: Online courses and continuous skills development in new technologies

Common benefits and compensation

Common benefits for a technical operation manager include occupational pension, wellness allowance, and opportunities for skills development through courses and certifications. Many employers also offer flexible working hours, company cars, subsidized travel, and extra vacation days for longer employment.

Competition and challenges

The competition for roles as a technical operation manager is relatively high, especially at large media companies and production houses in metropolitan areas. Rapid technological development requires continuous skills upgrading and the ability to handle new systems and work methods. A challenge is to combine technical leadership with understanding of the creative production process. Additionally, gender imbalance and salary differences between men and women exist, which can affect the work environment. The ability to work under pressure and quickly solve technical problems is essential for success in the role.

Tips for those who want to become a technical operation manager

To succeed as a technical operation manager, it is beneficial to develop both technical skills and leadership abilities. A structured approach facilitates managing complex projects and technical challenges. Initiative and curiosity about new technology are important traits, especially in a rapidly changing industry. Being communicative and pedagogical helps in collaboration between technical and production teams, which is often required in the role. Seeking internships or junior roles early on to build experience and networks is advantageous. Further education and certifications in broadcast technology or project management strengthen competitiveness. Finally, resilience and problem-solving skills are central, as the work environment is often intense and deadline-driven.

Key facts about the technical operation manager profession

• Salary range: 35,200–47,200 SEK/month
• Average salary: 41 700 SEK/month
• Education level: Higher education of 3–4 years recommended
• Work environment: Offices, control rooms, and production sites
• Available jobs in the profession: 620 positions

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience as a technical operation manager, there are good opportunities to advance to more specialized or overarching roles, such as technical director, broadcast project manager, or development leader for new broadcasting platforms. Many also choose to broaden their skills into IT operations or digital media services, increasing employability. Currently, there are 620 job openings, indicating continued demand. Although the employment agency’s forecasts do not provide detailed predictions for this specific title due to limited data, technological development and digitalization in media suggest a stable need for this expertise in the future.

Frequently asked questions about the technical operation manager

• What does a technical operation manager earn?
  - The average salary is 41 700 SEK per month, with a range between 35,200 and 47,200 SEK depending on background and employer.
• Is there a salary difference between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 37 800 SEK and men 44 700 SEK, which means women earn 85% of men's salaries.
• What education is required?
  - A university degree in engineering, media, or IT lasting 3–4 years is recommended, preferably supplemented with internships and certifications.
• How does the job market look?
  - There are 620 job openings within the profession, but no precise forecast of future recruitment needs.
• What work environments are common?
  - Work is often carried out in offices, control rooms, and production environments, sometimes with irregular hours.
• What are common benefits?
  - Occupational pension, wellness allowance, skills development, and flexible hours are common.
• What are the career opportunities?
  - After a few years, you can advance to roles such as technical director, project manager, or broader roles within media technology.