Road traffic controller

What does a Traffic Controller do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A traffic controller is responsible for monitoring, coordinating, and managing road traffic to ensure smooth and safe traffic flow. The work involves handling traffic flows, communicating with drivers and other stakeholders, and making quick decisions during incidents and disruptions. Tasks also include traffic monitoring via technical systems, reporting traffic conditions, and collaborating with authorities and emergency services during accidents. The work environment is often technologically advanced and can be both office-based and operational, with shift work being common, especially at larger traffic centers.

Salary Development Over Time

The salary for traffic controllers has shown a steady increase in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,100 SEK per month, which increased to 39 000 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary further rose to 40 200 SEK. The total increase over three years amounts to approximately 8.3%, which can be linked to continued demand for qualified personnel in transport management and increased technical requirements. Salary trends also reflect the industry’s need to retain experienced traffic controllers as technology develops and traffic volumes grow. Gender differences persist, but overall salary development is positive for the profession as a whole.

Traffic Controller Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 40 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 37,400 SEK/month (female, private sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 42,400 SEK/month (male, public sector, post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 242 SEK
• Women’s salary in relation to men: 94% (women: 38 400 SEK, men: 40 900 SEK)
• Regional differences: No data available

Education and Qualifications

To work as a traffic controller, a high school education with a focus on transport, logistics, or civil engineering is usually required, supplemented with on-the-job training. Many employers also prefer post-secondary studies, especially in traffic management or transportation planning. Practical experience from traffic management, logistics, or similar fields is often advantageous, and internal training is regularly provided to ensure updated knowledge of technology and regulations.

• High school education: Transport, civil engineering, or technology (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: YH or university-level studies in logistics or transport management (2–3 years, meritorious)
• Certifications: Basic safety training and workplace introduction
• Internship/Trainee: Often required, including internship or trainee programs
• Pre-requisites: Good communication skills and stress resilience

Common Benefits and Compensation

Common benefits for traffic controllers include overtime pay for evening and weekend work, wellness allowances, extra vacation days, and opportunities for professional development through internal and external training. Several employers also offer occupational pension schemes, insurance, subsidized lunches, or staff discounts.

Competition and Challenges

The competition for positions as a traffic controller is considered balanced, meaning there is neither a shortage nor an oversupply of qualified candidates. Challenges in the profession mainly involve managing stressful situations, especially during accidents or unexpected traffic disruptions. Technological development requires traffic controllers to continuously update their knowledge of new monitoring systems and digital tools. Additionally, strong teamwork skills are essential, as the work is often performed in teams and in collaboration with other societal actors. The Employment Service’s forecast indicates that demand for traffic controllers will remain unchanged over the next five years, emphasizing the importance of ongoing skills development.

Tips for Aspiring Traffic Controllers

To succeed as a traffic controller, it’s beneficial to have strong stress management skills and the ability to make well-founded decisions quickly, especially under pressure. Developing good communication skills is crucial, as the role involves extensive collaboration and contact with colleagues and external actors. Flexibility and openness to shift work are also important, as work shifts often vary between day, evening, and night. An interest in technology and willingness to continuously learn new systems give an advantage, as does accuracy and responsibility in daily tasks. Being solution-oriented helps when unexpected situations arise, and a positive attitude towards change makes it easier to adapt to new routines and technologies. Employers also value candidates who show engagement and a desire to contribute to a safe and efficient traffic environment.

Key Facts about Traffic Controllers

• Average salary: 40 200 SEK/month
• Salary range: 37,400–42,400 SEK/month
• Gender salary difference: Women earn 94% of men's salary
• Work environment: Shift work and technologically advanced environment
• Future outlook: Moderate opportunities, unchanged demand

Career Paths and Future Prospects

After three to five years in the profession, traffic controllers can advance to senior roles such as traffic management manager, training officer in traffic management, or specialized coordinator for larger traffic projects. Some choose to further their education in logistics, traffic planning, or project management to broaden their career options. According to the Employment Service, the job market for transport managers and coordinators is balanced, with moderate opportunities and unchanged demand over five years. There are also good opportunities for internal career development within larger organizations, especially for those demonstrating leadership skills and technical expertise. Currently, there are 412 job openings in the field, indicating a stable job market for traffic controllers.

Frequently Asked Questions about Traffic Controllers

• What does a Traffic Controller earn?
  - A traffic controller has an average salary of 40 200 SEK per month, but the salary can vary depending on experience, education, and sector.
• How do gender differences in salary look for traffic controllers?
  - Women earn an average of 38 400 SEK and men 40 900 SEK, which means women earn approximately 94% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a traffic controller?
  - High school education with a focus on transport or civil engineering is recommended, preferably complemented with post-secondary studies and practical training.
• What is the work environment like for traffic controllers?
  - The work environment is technologically advanced and often characterized by shift work, with elements of stressful situations and a fast pace.
• What career opportunities are available for a traffic controller?
  - After a few years, traffic controllers can advance to managerial roles, trainers, or specialized coordinators within traffic management and logistics.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The forecast is that demand for traffic controllers will remain unchanged over the next five years, providing stable employment opportunities.
• Are there regional salary differences for traffic controllers?
  - There is currently no available data on regional salary differences for traffic controllers.