Time study engineer, telecommunications

What does a time study engineer in telecommunications do? – Tasks and work environment

A time study engineer in telecommunications works on analyzing and improving work processes, production flows, and resource utilization in the telecom industry. The main task is to conduct time studies and work measurements to identify bottlenecks, streamline routines, and ensure technical solutions are implemented optimally. Collaboration often occurs with technicians, production managers, and development teams to create sustainable improvements. The work environment is mainly office-based but may include visits to facilities, production units, or customer sites to collect data and verify process improvements.

Salary development over time

The salary development for telecommunication time study engineers has shown a clear increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,600 SEK per month, rising the following year to 48 800. This level has remained stable through 2023 and 2024, representing an increase of about 4.7% during this period. The relatively rapid growth between 2022 and 2023 can partly be explained by increased demand for engineering skills in the telecom sector, driven by digitalization and technical upgrades. The stabilization suggests the market has reached equilibrium, with supply and demand for labor more balanced. The salary trend also reflects high competition for skills, especially given the rapid technological development within telecommunications.

Time study engineer in telecommunications salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 48 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,900 SEK/month (men, public sector, pre-university education)
• Lowest salary for women: 41,600 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 66,400 SEK/month (men, private sector, doctoral degree)
• Highest salary for women: 49,300 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 293 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 95% of men's salary (46 700 SEK vs 49 200 SEK)

Education and qualifications

To work as a time study engineer with a focus on telecommunications, a university or master's degree in electrical engineering, industrial economics, or a similar technical field is generally required. Further training in work measurement, LEAN, or production development is highly meritorious. Practical experience from the telecom sector or from production environments where process efficiency is central can be decisive during recruitment.

• Formal degree: University or master's degree (3–5 years) in electrical engineering or industrial economics
• Specialized courses: Time studies, work measurement, LEAN, Six Sigma
• Internship/Trainee: Industry-specific trainee programs provide valuable experience
• Prerequisites: Good mathematical skills and technical understanding
• Certifications: LEAN, Six Sigma, or equivalent are often advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Time study engineers in telecommunications are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible working hours, remote work, and skills development. Additional compensations may include bonus programs, training, and sometimes company cars, especially for travel between facilities or client assignments.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a telecommunication time study engineer is notable, as the industry demands both technical expertise and experience in work measurement. Despite many opportunities nationwide, recruitment difficulties are reported, with many leaving the profession for other technical roles or leadership positions. A challenge is to stay updated on rapid technological developments within telecom while understanding how new processes impact workflows. Combining analytical skills with good communication is essential for success, as improvement proposals often need to be endorsed at multiple organizational levels.

Tips for aspiring telecommunication time study engineers

To succeed as a telecommunication time study engineer, it is beneficial to have an analytical mindset and strong problem-solving skills, since precise work measurement requires methodological work and the ability to interpret complex data. Developing good collaboration skills is crucial, as the role often involves leading change initiatives across departments. An interest in technology and processes combined with curiosity about how workflows can be improved provides an advantage. Dare to challenge old routines and be receptive to staff experiences, which enhances credibility and impact. Engagement in industry-specific networks or trainee programs can provide valuable contacts and insights into current trends. Self-leadership and initiative-taking for personal development are important, as the industry evolves rapidly. Finally, communication skills are central when presenting results and improvement proposals in an understandable way.

Key facts about telecommunication time study engineers

• Average salary: 48 800 SEK/month
• Salary range: 38,900–66,400 SEK/month
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 95% of men's salary
• Education level: University or master's degree
• Demand: Great opportunities for nationwide employment

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years of experience as a telecommunication time study engineer, opportunities open up for roles such as production developer, project manager, or process responsible within larger technology companies. Many advance to leadership positions in production optimization or move into specialist roles within work measurement and LEAN. According to the Employment Service's forecasts, job opportunities in this profession are very good, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over five years, despite some personnel turnover. This indicates stable future prospects and good chances for further development, especially for those who continuously build on their technical and analytical skills. Currently, there are 564 available jobs nationwide, underscoring the market's need for this type of engineering expertise.

Common questions about telecommunication time study engineers

• What does a telecommunication time study engineer earn?
  - The average salary is 48 800 SEK per month, with a range between 38,900 and 66,400 SEK.
• What education is required to become a telecommunication time study engineer?
  - Usually, a university or master's degree in electrical engineering, industrial economics, or similar technical fields is necessary.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn on average 95% of what men do in the profession.
• What does the job market look like for telecommunication time study engineers?
  - The job market is strong with many available positions and unchanged demand over five years, according to the Employment Service.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible working hours, remote work, and skills development are common benefits.
• How has salary development been?
  - Salaries have increased by approximately 4.7% over the past three years and have been stable for the last two years.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Common next steps include project manager, process responsible, or specialist in LEAN and production development.