Road engineer

What does a Vägingenjör do? – tasks and work environment

A Vägingenjör primarily works with planning, design, construction, and maintenance of roads, bridges, and other infrastructure within the transportation sector. Tasks include analyzing land and traffic conditions, developing technical solutions, as well as project management and follow-up of contracts. Collaboration with other engineers, authorities, and contractors is often required to ensure projects meet technical and environmental standards. The work environment is varied, with elements of both office work and field visits, where modern digital tools are used for measurement, modeling, and documentation.

Salary development over time

The salary for Vägingenjörer has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 45,900 SEK per month. The following year, 2023, it rose to 49 900 SEK, representing an increase of just over 8.7%. In 2024, the trend continued upward to 50 200 SEK, a more modest increase of 0.6% from the previous year. The sharp increase between 2022 and 2023 can be explained by increased demand for technical expertise in the construction and civil engineering sector, as well as general salary inflation in the industry. However, salary growth has leveled off somewhat in the latest year, likely due to a stabilized labor market and increased competition for positions.

Vägingenjör salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 50 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 41,400 SEK/month (women, public sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 57,900 SEK/month (women, government sector, research degree)
• Hourly wage: 302 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 47 300 SEK/month (92% of men's salary), men earn 51 200 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Varies depending on region and employer

Education and qualifications

To work as a Vägingenjör, a university or master’s degree in road and water engineering, civil engineering, or equivalent technical field is generally required. Practical experience from the industry or trainee programs is often advantageous, and some employers may require specific certifications or courses in project management or environmental technology. Basic knowledge of CAD and modern IT tools is also important, as well as the ability to work in project teams and collaborate across functions.

• Formal degree: Bachelor’s (3 years) or Master’s (5 years) in a relevant field
• Certifications: Courses in project management, environment, and occupational health and safety may be required
• Internship: Trainee programs or internships during studies are recommended
• Prerequisites: Science-oriented upper secondary education
• Technical skills: Experience with CAD and digital construction systems

Common benefits and compensations

Typical benefits for Vägingenjörer include occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible working hours, and extra vacation days when employed in the public sector. Larger employers often offer skills development, training, and options for remote work. In some cases, allowances for car and work clothing may also be included depending on tasks and workplace.

Competition and challenges

The job market for Vägingenjörer is characterized by a balance between supply and demand, with opportunities for employment nationwide considered moderate. However, demand is expected to increase over the next five years, driven by technological development and the need to modernize infrastructure. Challenges in the profession include high demands for accuracy, the ability to manage complex projects, and staying updated on new regulations and technologies. The industry is also sensitive to economic fluctuations, which can affect the availability of new projects during downturns. At the same time, technological advances and digitalization increase the need for skills development in areas such as automation and environmental technology.

Tips for aspiring Vägingenjörs

To succeed as a Vägingenjör, it’s beneficial to combine technical interest with the ability to work systematically and solution-oriented. Strong analytical skills facilitate planning and executing complex road projects, while teamwork skills are crucial as work often involves collaboration with various specialists. Being communicative and clear eases contact with contractors, authorities, and colleagues, and some flexibility is required to adapt to changing conditions and new technical solutions. An interest in digital tools and continuous further education in areas like CAD and project management is also advantageous. Initiative and a proactive approach are appreciated, especially when unexpected problems arise during projects.

Key facts about Vägingenjör

• Average salary: 50 200 SEK/month
• Salary range: 41,400–57,900 SEK/month
• Education level: Bachelor’s or master’s degree (3–5 years)
• Work environment: Combination of office and fieldwork
• Demand: Expected to increase within five years (Swedish Public Employment Service)

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a Vägingenjör, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as project manager, specialist in traffic planning or environmental technology, and various leadership positions within the construction and civil engineering sector. Many choose to broaden their skills through further education in project management, digitalization, or sustainability issues. The Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast indicates that demand for engineers and technicians in construction and civil engineering is expected to grow over five years, driven by technological development and automation. With 379 available jobs nationwide, the job market is stable, but developments are influenced by economic cycles and societal investments.

Frequently asked questions about Vägingenjör

• What does a Vägingenjör earn?
  - The average salary is 50 200 SEK per month, varying with experience and sector.
• How does one become a Vägingenjör?
  - The most common route is a university or master’s degree in road and water engineering or civil engineering.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 47 300 SEK, which is 92% of men's salaries.
• What are the future prospects?
  - Demand is expected to increase over the next five years according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
• What tasks does a Vägingenjör perform?
  - Planning, design, construction management, and maintenance of roads and infrastructure.
• Where are the highest salaries?
  - The highest salary, 57,900 SEK, is found among women in the government sector with a research degree.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Analytical skills, teamwork, structured work style, and interest in technology are central qualities.