Maintenance engineer, construction and civil engineering

What does a maintenance engineer in construction and civil engineering do? – Tasks and work environment

A maintenance engineer in construction and civil engineering is responsible for planning, coordinating, and optimizing maintenance activities of technical systems and facilities within the construction sector. Tasks include both preventive and corrective maintenance, troubleshooting, analysis of operational disruptions, and evaluation of technical solutions to ensure the functionality and lifespan of facilities. The role involves close collaboration with other engineers, technicians, and contractors, as well as dialogue with suppliers and authorities. The work environment is varied – from office work with documentation and planning to site visits at construction sites, factories, or infrastructure facilities. Safety considerations and documentation requirements are central parts of the profession.

Salary development over time

The salary for maintenance engineers in construction and civil engineering has shown a clear upward trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 45,900 SEK per month. In 2023, this increased to 49 900 SEK, a rise of about 8.7%. By 2024, the average salary has risen further to 50 200 SEK, which is an increase of 0.6% from the previous year. The recent salary increases can partly be explained by increased demand for technical expertise within construction and civil engineering, as well as a greater focus on maintenance and automation. The industry’s technological development and the need to secure sustainable and reliable facilities drive salary growth, especially for engineers with specialist skills in maintenance and technical management.

Maintenance engineer in construction and civil engineering salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 50 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 41,400 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 57,900 SEK/month (female, government sector, research education)
• Hourly wage: 302 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Men earn 51 200 SEK, women 47 300 SEK (women 92% of men's salary)

Education and qualifications

To work as a maintenance engineer in construction and civil engineering, a university or engineering degree in a relevant technical field, such as construction technology, mechanical engineering, or civil engineering, is usually required. Practical experience from construction projects or technical maintenance is often advantageous and highly valued by employers. There are multiple pathways into the profession, and it is possible to supplement with certifications and specialized courses in maintenance technology or project management.

• Formal degree: University or engineering degree (3–5 years)
• Certifications: Courses in maintenance technology, project management, occupational safety
• Internship: Internship or trainee position during studies is recommended
• Prerequisites: Science or technical high school program
• Additional: Continuing education and online courses in digital tools and new technologies

Common benefits and compensations

Maintenance engineers in construction and civil engineering are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexitime, remote work options, and further training at the employer’s expense. Other common compensations include overtime pay and sometimes bonuses linked to project completion or efficiency goals.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a maintenance engineer in construction and civil engineering is moderate and characterized by a balance between supply and demand. Challenges in the profession often involve staying updated with new technologies, digitalization, and increased sustainability requirements. Since the tasks span strategic planning and urgent interventions, flexibility and prioritization skills are required. An additional challenge is the increasing complexity of modern facilities, which demands higher technical competence and communication skills.

Tips for those who want to become a maintenance engineer in construction and civil engineering

To succeed as a maintenance engineer in construction and civil engineering, it is good to be analytical and meticulous, especially when troubleshooting and planning maintenance work. Good collaboration skills facilitate teamwork with different professional groups. It is also important to be solution-oriented and flexible, as unforeseen problems can arise in both operations and projects. Developing strong communication skills is valuable when interacting with contractors and suppliers. Finally, an interest in technological development and a willingness to further educate oneself offer significant advantages, as the industry changes rapidly and new digital tools are becoming increasingly important.

Key facts about maintenance engineers in construction and civil engineering

• Education level: University or engineering degree
• Work environment: Combined office and field work
• Demand: Moderate, increasing over five years
• Typical work form: Project-based team work
• Special skills: Maintenance technology, digital tools, project management

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a maintenance engineer in construction and civil engineering, there are opportunities to advance to leadership roles such as maintenance manager, technical project manager, or specialist in areas like digitalization and automation. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, the job prospects are moderate today, but demand is expected to increase over five years, especially within technically advanced projects and infrastructure investments. More employers are seeking expertise in new technologies and sustainability issues, making further education and specialization particularly valuable. Recently, there were over 379 job openings in the engineering and technician field within construction and civil engineering, highlighting good opportunities for employment and career development.

Common questions about maintenance engineers in construction and civil engineering

• What does a maintenance engineer in construction and civil engineering earn?
  - The average salary is 50 200 SEK/month, with variations depending on experience, sector, and education level.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn an average of 51 200 SEK and women 47 300 SEK, which means women earn 92% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a maintenance engineer?
  - Typically, a university or engineering degree in construction technology, mechanical engineering, or similar is required.
• What does the job market look like?
  - Demand is moderate with increasing needs over five years, especially within technical development and automation.
• What are the most common job duties?
  - Planning and implementing maintenance, troubleshooting, technical analysis, and project coordination.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries?
  - The highest salary is 57,900 SEK (female, government sector, research education), and the lowest is 41,400 SEK (female, public sector, high school education).
• Are there opportunities for career development?
  - Yes, further education and experience can lead to roles such as maintenance manager or specialist.