Maintenance mechanic

What does a maintenance technician do? – Tasks and work environment

A maintenance technician primarily works on preventing, troubleshooting, and repairing machines and technical systems within industries, property management, or the energy sector. Tasks include daily maintenance, urgent repairs, planning service interventions, and installing new equipment. Often, work takes place in production environments with high safety and efficiency standards. Maintenance technicians collaborate closely with other technical and operational groups, and the work environment can range from workshops to fieldwork depending on the industry and workplace.

Salary development over time

The profession of maintenance technicians has experienced stable and positive salary growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,500 SEK per month, which increased to 37 900 SEK in 2023 and further to 39 400 SEK in 2024. This represents a total salary increase of approximately 8% during the period, with a clear trend of rising wages in line with increased demand for technical skills and a greater focus on automation and preventative maintenance in industry. Salaries have been strengthened by continued high demand for qualified mechanics, while employers compete for workforce through improved conditions and opportunities for further training. The development indicates that the profession remains attractive, especially for those investing in technical education and specialization.

Maintenance Technician salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 39 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,600 SEK/month (female, municipal sector)
• Highest salary: 41,000 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education of 3 years or more)
• Hourly wage: 237 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Men earn 39 500 SEK, women 38 500 SEK (women earn 98% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salary variations occur depending on region and employer

Education and qualifications

To work as a maintenance technician, a typical requirement is upper secondary education within the industrial program with a focus on operations, maintenance, or technology. Many employers also value practical experience and knowledge in electrical systems, automation, or welding. Further training and certifications can provide competitive advantages and opportunities for higher wages or more specialized tasks.

• Upper secondary education: Industrial technical program, 3 years
• Vocational training: 1–2 years, often with apprenticeships
• Certifications: Welding, electrical licenses, or hydraulics
• Internship/Trainee: Common and advantageous
• Prerequisites: Technical interest and mechanical understanding
• Tips: Combine education with workplace learning for increased employability

Common benefits and compensations

Maintenance technicians are often offered benefits such as shift and overtime pay, wellness allowances, work clothing, and access to tools. Other common perks include further training at the employer’s expense, extra vacation days, and sometimes bonuses linked to production or quality. Pension schemes and insurance are regularly included in collective agreements.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for maintenance technicians is currently characterized by balance, with supply and demand being relatively equal according to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts. However, regional variations exist where some areas have greater needs for technically skilled personnel. Technological advances and increased automation impose higher demands for ongoing training and adaptability. At the same time, monotonous tasks and shift work can be challenging for some, and there is a risk that work processes may change as technology replaces parts of manual maintenance. For those willing to develop and broaden their skills, opportunities remain good.

Tips for those who want to become maintenance technicians

To succeed as a maintenance technician, it’s beneficial to have strong problem-solving skills, as unexpected faults often need to be addressed quickly and systematically. An interest in technology facilitates learning new machinery and systems, while precision contributes to safe and efficient maintenance. Flexibility is a strength, as tasks and working hours can vary based on operational needs. Good teamwork skills are important, as work often involves collaboration with colleagues from various technical fields. Lastly, being proactive and self-reliant is valuable, as proactive maintenance and improvement suggestions are appreciated by employers.

Key facts about Maintenance Technicians

• Education level: Upper secondary or vocational training
• Work environment: Industry, workshop, field, or property management
• Demand: Moderate, with a balanced job market
• Typical employment: Full-time, often shift work
• Special skills: Automation, electrical systems, welding, or hydraulics

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a maintenance technician can advance to more specialized roles such as automation technician, supervisor, or maintenance planner. Some choose to further their education in areas like electrical engineering, control systems, or project management, opening opportunities for roles as technical specialists or operations managers. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, job opportunities nationally are moderate and expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, driven by ongoing technological development and automation. The number of available positions is stable, with 479 current openings, indicating good prospects for those with the right qualifications and willingness to develop their skills.

Frequently asked questions about Maintenance Technicians

• What does a Maintenance Technician earn?
  - The average salary is 39 400 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, education, and employer.
• How does one become a maintenance technician?
  - Most commonly through upper secondary education within the industrial program, but vocational training and apprenticeships are also pathways into the profession.
• Are there differences in wages between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn approximately 98% of what men do within the profession.
• What is the highest salary for a maintenance technician?
  - The highest reported salary is 41,000 SEK per month for men and 40,300 SEK for women.
• What is the job market like for maintenance technicians?
  - The job market is considered balanced with 479 current openings in the field.
• What are the most common work environments?
  - Mainly industry, workshops, property management, and sometimes in field environments.
• Are there regional differences in wages?
  - Yes, wages can vary depending on region and employer, but the variation is generally moderate.