Maintenance manager, electric power

What does a maintenance manager in electrical power do? – Tasks and work environment

A maintenance manager in electrical power is responsible for leading, developing, and quality-assuring maintenance activities within power generation facilities, distribution networks, or large industrial companies. The role involves planning and coordinating both preventive and corrective maintenance efforts to ensure operational reliability, minimize downtime, and optimize asset lifespan. The work environment is characterized by technical challenges, a high safety focus, and close collaboration with engineers, technicians, and external suppliers. The position often includes personnel management, budgeting, and compliance with regulatory and industry standards.

Salary development over time

The salary for a maintenance manager in electrical power has developed steadily in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,600 SEK per month, while in both 2023 and 2024 it amounted to 48 800 SEK per month. This represents a salary increase of approximately 4.7% between 2022 and 2023, after which the salary has remained unchanged this past year. The salary increase can be linked to continued strong demand for qualified technical skills within the electrical power sector, as well as a need for experienced leaders to meet increased requirements for operational reliability and technological development. Although salary growth has plateaued recently, the profession continues to offer competitive conditions compared to other engineering roles.

Maintenance manager, electrical power salary – comprehensive overview

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

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a maintenance manager in electrical power typically involves a technical education in electrical engineering or energy technology, often at university or engineering degree level. Practical experience from operations, maintenance, or project management within the power sector is highly meritorious, as are supplementary leadership training. Certifications in electrical safety, occupational health, and project management can further strengthen candidates' competitiveness in the job market.

• University or engineering degree in electrical engineering or energy technology (3–5 years)
• Certifications in electrical safety or occupational health (e.g., ESA, BAS-U/P)
• Leadership training and experience in personnel management
• Internship or trainee programs within energy companies or industrial firms
• Further education in project management or maintenance technology

Common benefits and compensation

Maintenance managers in electrical power often have access to benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, extra vacation, performance bonuses, and options for flexible working hours and standby compensation. In some cases, further training, company cars, and insurance packages are included as part of the employment package.

Competition and challenges

The competition for the most qualified roles as maintenance manager in electrical power is relatively high, especially in metropolitan areas and among larger energy companies. The industry is also experiencing a generational shift, with many experienced managers approaching retirement. Challenges include continuous technological development, increased demands for digitalization and sustainability, and difficulties in recruiting technical expertise. The role also involves significant responsibility for work environment and safety, where legal requirements and regulations are extensive and constantly evolving.

Tips for aspiring maintenance managers in electrical power

To succeed as a maintenance manager in electrical power, it is beneficial to combine technical curiosity with a structured approach. Gaining solid experience in operations and maintenance provides a stable foundation, but developing leadership skills and communication abilities is equally important to motivate teams and drive change. A solution-oriented mindset helps with quick decision-making and handling unexpected problems, and staying updated on industry technological advancements can provide a competitive edge. Attention to detail and a sense of responsibility are central qualities, especially since the role involves ensuring both plant functionality and personnel safety. Building a network within the industry and participating in relevant training or seminars can also open doors to new career opportunities.

Key facts about maintenance managers in electrical power

• Average salary: 48 800 SEK/month
• Educational level: University or engineering degree
• Work environment: Technical environment with high safety requirements
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment according to the Swedish Public Employment Service
• Number of job openings in the field: 564

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a maintenance manager in electrical power, there are good opportunities to advance to overarching technical management roles, such as operations manager, technical director, or plant manager within larger energy companies or industrial conglomerates. It is also common for experienced maintenance managers to move into specialist roles in technological development or project management of larger investment projects. The Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast indicates that demand for engineers and technicians in electrical engineering is expected to remain high and stable over the next five years, although recruitment difficulties may occur. The industry thus offers stable future prospects with many job openings, but also a need for continuous skills development to meet new technologies and increased sustainability requirements.

Frequently asked questions about maintenance managers in electrical power

• What is the salary of a maintenance manager in electrical power?
  - The average salary is 48 800 SEK per month, but it varies depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What education is required to become a maintenance manager in electrical power?
  - A university or engineering degree in electrical engineering or energy technology is most common, often supplemented with leadership training and practical experience.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 46 700 SEK while men earn 49 200 SEK, which means women earn approximately 95% of men's salaries.
• What career paths are available for maintenance managers in electrical power?
  - It is common to advance to roles such as operations manager, technical director, or project leader within the energy industry.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Demand is expected to be high and stable according to the Swedish Public Employment Service, with many job openings and good opportunities for further development.
• What are the job responsibilities of a maintenance manager in electrical power?
  - The role includes planning, leading, and quality assurance of maintenance work, as well as responsibility for staff, budget, and safety.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Benefits often include occupational pension, wellness allowance, extra vacation, bonuses, and options for flexible working hours and standby compensation.