Technical officer

What does a Technical Officer do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Technical Officer plays a central role within the Swedish Armed Forces and other larger organizations where technical expertise is combined with leadership. Tasks often include responsibility for operation, maintenance, and development of technical systems such as vehicles, weapon systems, telecommunications, and IT infrastructure. The profession also involves planning and executing technical projects, as well as training and supervising personnel. The work is usually conducted in a structured and security-conscious environment, often on military bases, ships, or facilities with high demands on precision and readiness. Collaboration with other officers, specialists, and civilian staff is a natural part of daily life, and the work environment can vary from office settings to field conditions depending on the assignment and location.

Salary Development Over Time

The salary for a Technical Officer has shown a stable and positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 47,500 SEK per month. In 2023, the salary increased to 49 400 SEK, representing an increase of just over 4%. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 51 300 SEK, which means a total salary increase of approximately 8% over the three-year period. This positive trend can mainly be explained by increased demand for technically skilled officers within both the Armed Forces and the private sector, where technical competence and leadership skills have become increasingly important. Growing demands for technological development, digitalization, and complex systems have also contributed to raising the profession's status and salary levels.

Technical Officer Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 51 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 36,300 SEK/month (woman, private employee, high school education)
• Highest salary: 53,900 SEK/month (woman, private employee, doctoral education)
• Hourly wage: 309 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Men 52 000 SEK, women 45 300 SEK (women earn 87% of men)
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and Qualifications

The path to becoming a Technical Officer typically involves a combination of technical education and officer training at the Swedish Armed Forces' schools or equivalent civilian technical universities. Formal degrees in engineering, IT, or related fields are often required, along with supplementary military training and leadership courses. Practical experience from technical work and project management is advantageous, and some roles require certifications or specialized training depending on the area of focus.

• Formal education: Officer program with a technical focus, 3–4 years
• Technical university education: Civil or university engineer
• Military basic training: Basic military training (GMU) required
• Specialist training: For example, in IT, vehicles, weapon systems
• Internship/Trainee: Often includes internships and project work
• Certifications: Military or civilian certificates depending on work area

Common Benefits and Compensation

Technical officers often enjoy benefits such as extra vacation days, wellness allowance, subsidized meals, options for accommodation at or near the workplace, and collective pension schemes. For international service or special assignments, additional allowances and per diems may also apply, along with support for further education and skills development.

Competition and Challenges

The competition for positions as a Technical Officer is relatively high, especially for those lacking both technical and military backgrounds. Challenges in the profession include high demands on technical skills, leadership, and flexibility, often in environments requiring quick decisions and adaptability. Technological development demands continuous further training and the ability to quickly adopt new systems and methods. Additionally, the work environment sometimes involves irregular hours and field exercises, which can affect work-life balance. For those with the right profile and dedication, however, there are good opportunities for development and advancement.

Tips for Aspiring Technical Officers

To succeed as a Technical Officer, it is beneficial to combine technical interest with a strong desire to lead and collaborate. Attention to detail is crucial, especially when handling advanced systems and security-critical tasks, so early training in focus and problem-solving is advisable. Being communicative and pedagogical provides advantages, as the role often involves training and supervising others. Flexibility and adaptability are also important since the work environment can shift quickly between office, field, and technical workshops. Good physical and mental endurance facilitates participation in field exercises and longer shifts. It is recommended to actively seek internships, trainee programs, and networking opportunities within the Armed Forces or technology-intensive companies to build experience. Finally, a continuous interest in skills development is key, as technology constantly evolves and new demands may arise rapidly.

Key Facts about Technical Officers

• Average salary: 51 300 SEK/month
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 87% of men's salaries
• Education level: Officer program with a technical focus, often supplemented with engineering education
• Work environment: Both office and field-based depending on assignments
• Demand: 39 available jobs according to the latest measurement

Career Paths and Future Prospects

After three to five years as a Technical Officer, opportunities open for advancement to higher positions such as technical manager, project leader for larger material projects, or specialist in areas like IT security or weapons technology. Those combining technical skills with leadership training may also take on roles in strategic planning or training management. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service and available job data, demand for Technical Officers remains stable, with 39 available positions within the profession. The future outlook is positive, as technological development and digitalization increase the need for qualified technical officers in both defense and industry. Related career paths may include systems engineer in the defense industry, security analyst, or consultant in technical project management.

Common Questions about Technical Officers

• What does a Technical Officer earn?
  - A Technical Officer has an average salary of 51 300 SEK per month.
• What is required to become a Technical Officer?
  - A combination of officer training and technical university education is required, often supplemented with military basic training.
• Are there large salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn approximately 87% of what men do in the profession.
• What is the job market like for a Technical Officer?
  - There is good demand with 39 available jobs according to the latest measurement.
• What are the most common tasks?
  - Responsibility for technical systems, project management, supervision of staff, and development of technical solutions.
• What is the highest documented salary for the profession?
  - The highest salary is 53,900 SEK and is held by a woman with doctoral education working as a private employee.
• What education is recommended?
  - The officer program with a technical focus combined with engineering education is most common.