Road technician

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

A road technician works with planning, supervising, and ensuring quality in the construction, maintenance, and operation of roads and other infrastructure facilities. Common tasks include technical calculations, material selection, measurements and inspections on-site, as well as preparing technical reports and documentation. The role often involves collaboration with project managers, contractors, authorities, and other technical specialists. The work environment is varied, combining office work and fieldwork at road construction sites and infrastructure projects, where safety and precision are central to maintaining traffic flow and long-term sustainability of infrastructure.

Salary development over time

The salary for road technicians has shown a clear positive trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 45,900 SEK per month. The following year, 2023, the average salary increased to 49 900 SEK, representing an increase of about 8.7%. By 2024, the average salary has continued to rise to 50 200 SEK, a more moderate increase of 0.6% compared to the previous year. The strongest salary increase occurred between 2022 and 2023, largely due to increased demand for technical expertise in the infrastructure sector and rising competition for qualified labor. Salary development has since stabilized but continues to show some growth as societal investments and technological advancements drive the need for road technicians forward.

Road technician salary – complete 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 (average): 302 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 51 200 SEK, women 47 300 SEK (women 92% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data on regional variations is unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a road technician, a post-secondary education in construction, civil engineering, or road and traffic technology is usually required, often combined with internships or trainee programs to develop practical skills and understanding of industry standards. Additional qualifications, such as certifications or specialized courses, can enhance employment and advancement opportunities.

• Vocational college: 2–3 years in construction, civil engineering, or road and traffic technology
• University or college degree: Engineering degree focusing on infrastructure
• Certifications: Examples include BAS-P/BAS-U, occupational health and safety
• Practical training: Often mandatory during education
• Prerequisites: Mathematics, technology, and some experience from the construction industry are advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Road technicians are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowances, extra vacation, further training, and sometimes company cars or travel allowances for fieldwork. In some cases, bonus programs or performance-based compensation are available, especially within larger organizations or government employers.

Competition and challenges

The competition within the profession is currently balanced, meaning there is an even distribution between available road technicians and vacant positions. Challenges mainly arise in large infrastructure projects where demand for specialist skills can quickly increase. Technological advances, digitalization, and higher sustainability requirements impose new demands on education and working methods. The ability to work in teams and adapt to changing work environments is crucial, as is staying updated on regulations and standards. Regional differences in the labor market and project volume can also influence local competition.

Tips for those wishing to become a road technician

To succeed as a road technician, it’s beneficial to combine analytical skills with practical problem-solving and a strong sense of responsibility. Early internships or trainee programs during education provide valuable experience and contacts in the industry. Precision is essential, especially in technical calculations and documentation, while teamwork skills facilitate collaboration in projects with multiple stakeholders. An interest in technology and societal development helps maintain motivation in a profession where changes happen rapidly. Communication skills are also important, both for explaining technical solutions and for creating understanding among different stakeholders. Continuous further training in new standards and digital tools enhances opportunities for advancement and specialization.

Key facts about Road Technicians

• Average salary: 50 200 SEK/month
• Salary range: 41,400–57,900 SEK/month
• Educational level: Vocational college or university engineer
• Work environment: Alternates between office and field
• Demand: 379 available jobs within the profession (2024)

Career paths and outlook

After three to five years in the profession, a road technician can advance to roles such as project manager within road and infrastructure projects, specialist in geotechnics, or take responsibility for larger contracts and technical investigations. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service forecast, opportunities within the profession are moderate nationally, but demand is expected to increase over the next five years. This development is driven by increased need for technical expertise related to automation, digitalization, and societal investments in infrastructure. Vacant positions are available in both public and private sectors, and further education or specialization options are good for those wishing to broaden their careers.

Frequently asked questions about Road Technicians

• What does a road technician earn?
  - The average salary for a road technician is 50 200 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development looked for road technicians?
  - Salaries have increased from 45,900 SEK (2022) to 50 200 SEK (2024), with the largest increase between 2022 and 2023.
• What education is required to become a road technician?
  - Post-secondary education in construction, civil engineering, or road and traffic technology is required, often via vocational colleges or universities.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn on average 51 200 SEK and women 47 300 SEK, which means women earn 92% of men's salaries.
• What are the future prospects for road technicians?
  - Demand is expected to increase over the next five years, according to the Swedish Public Employment Service forecast.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for road technicians?
  - The highest salary is 57,900 SEK (female, government sector, research education), the lowest is 41,400 SEK (female, public sector, high school education).
• What tasks does a road technician perform?
  - Planning, supervision, quality control, and documentation of road construction and infrastructure projects.