Telecommunications technician, line fitter

What does a telecommunication technician in line work do? – Tasks and work environment

A telecommunication technician in line work is responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing telecommunications networks such as fiber and copper cables. The work also includes troubleshooting networks, pulling cables, and installing technical equipment in various environments – from ground works and poles to indoor installations. Often, tasks are performed in teams, but independent work also occurs. The work environment can be both outdoors and indoors, sometimes at heights or in confined spaces, requiring safety awareness and physical endurance.

Salary development over time

The salary for telecommunication technicians in line work has shown a clear increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 34,100 SEK per month, which increased to 34 700 in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 38 100, representing an approximately 11.7% increase over the period. This positive trend is linked to increased demand for technical skills in telecommunications, digitalization of society, and a growing need for network expansion. The shortage of qualified personnel and technological changes have also contributed to rising wages. Nevertheless, differences between genders and regions still exist, affecting overall salary levels.

Telecommunication technician, line installer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 38 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,100 SEK/month (female, unspecified education)
• Highest salary: 47,800 SEK/month (male, public sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage: 229 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 38 300 SEK, women 34,100 SEK (women earn 89% of what men do)
• Regional differences: Salary levels vary depending on region, demand, and employer

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a telecommunication technician in line work usually involves high school education in the electrical and energy program with specialization in electrical engineering or automation. Post-secondary education, such as vocational college in telecommunications or fiber technology, increases opportunities for higher salaries and specialized roles. Practical experience and certifications are also valuable, especially regarding safety and work at heights.

• High school education: Electrical and energy program, 3 years
• Post-secondary education: Vocational college in telecommunications or fiber technology, 1–2 years
• Certifications: Work at heights, ESA, Road safety
• Internship/Trainee: Common during education
• Prerequisites: Passing grades in mathematics, technology, and Swedish

Common benefits and compensations

For telecommunication technicians in line work, additional pay for unsocial hours, overtime compensation, and per diems for work away are common. Company cars, work clothing, wellness contributions, and regular training are often provided by employers in the industry. Union agreements offer additional security through insurance and pension contributions.

Competition and challenges

The job market for telecommunication technicians in line work is characterized by high demand and a certain shortage of qualified personnel. The recruitment situation is paradoxical: many leave the profession, yet there are also numerous vacant positions, making competition for labor intense. Technological changes and requirements for continuous skills development mean that those wishing to stay in the profession need to stay updated. Physically demanding environments and work at heights can also pose challenges for some. Salary differences between genders and regions are additional factors to consider.

Tips for those aspiring to become telecommunication technicians in line work

To succeed as a telecommunication technician in line work, it is helpful to have strong problem-solving skills and an interest in technology, as tasks often require quick troubleshooting and adaptation to new systems. Precision is crucial to ensure operational reliability and quality in installations, especially for advanced networks. Good teamwork skills facilitate work in teams and projects, while independence helps in assignments requiring personal responsibility. Flexibility and willingness to learn new things are vital in an industry that is constantly evolving through new technology. Safety awareness is central, especially when working at heights or in challenging environments. Good customer service skills can also make a significant difference for both work environment and career opportunities.

Key facts about telecommunication technicians in line work

• Salary range: 34,100–47,800 SEK/month
• Education level: High school or vocational college education
• Work environment: Variable, often outdoors and at heights
• Demand: Great opportunities for work nationwide
• Gender salary gap: Women earn 89% of what men do

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a telecommunication technician in line work, there are opportunities to advance to site supervisor, project manager, or specialist roles such as fiber technology or network design. Some choose to further their education to become engineers or take roles in operations and maintenance at larger companies. According to the Public Employment Service, the outlook is good, with extensive opportunities across the country, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. The industry’s technological development also opens new roles and tasks for those interested in further growth. Currently, there are 481 job openings within the electronics repair and communication electrician fields.

Frequently asked questions about telecommunication technicians in line work

• What does a telecommunication technician, line installer earn?
  - The average salary is 38 100 SEK/month, but it varies between 34,100 SEK and 47,800 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What education is required to become a telecommunication technician in line work?
  - High school education within the electrical and energy program or vocational college in telecommunications is most common.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 34,100 SEK while men earn 38 300, which corresponds to 89% of men's salary.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Job opportunities are plentiful, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What work environments are common for telecommunication technicians in line work?
  - Work is conducted both outdoors and indoors, often at heights or in confined spaces, with a focus on safety.
• What benefits can be expected?
  - Common benefits include per diems, overtime pay, company cars, wellness allowances, and work clothing.
• How many job openings are there in the profession?
  - Currently, there are 481 available positions within the electronics repair and communication electrician fields.