Ventilation engineer

What does a Ventilation Engineer do? – Tasks and Work Environment

Ventilation engineers are responsible for designing, sizing, and optimizing ventilation systems in everything from homes to industrial facilities. The work often covers the entire process from drawing plans and calculations to follow-up during installation and operational optimization. The role involves close collaboration with architects, builders, and property managers to ensure indoor climate meets legal requirements and customer needs. The work environment is varied and can include office work at a computer as well as inspections on construction sites or in technical rooms.

Salary development over time

The salary of ventilation engineers has shown a clear positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 41,500 SEK per month, increasing to 43 700 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 45 300 SEK, representing a salary increase of about 9% over three years. This growth can largely be explained by increased demand for energy-efficient solutions and technical expertise in climate-smart building projects, as well as general salary trends within engineering professions. The salary progression is also driven by a shortage of experienced specialists and increased requirements for certification and further training.

Ventilation Engineer Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 45 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 37,000 SEK/month (female, public sector, secondary education)
• Highest salary: 68,000 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, postgraduate degree)
• Highest for men: 50,500 SEK/month
• Lowest for men: 39,900 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 272 SEK
• Women's average salary: 43 200 SEK/month (95% of men's salary)
• Men's average salary: 45 600 SEK/month

Education and Qualifications

To work as a ventilation engineer, a technical education in HVAC, energy, or construction technology is usually required, often at university or vocational college level. Many employers also prioritize practical experience or specific certifications within ventilation and indoor climate. Both theoretical knowledge and practical skills are highly valued, as the profession is interdisciplinary and requires understanding of technology, work environment, and regulations.

• Vocational college diploma: HVAC engineer, ventilation specialization (2 years)
• University engineering degree: Construction technology, energy, or mechanical engineering (3 years)
• Certifications: e.g., OVK certification (Mandatory ventilation inspection)
• Internship: Common part of education or through trainee programs
• Prerequisites: Science or technical high school
• Courses: Energy optimization, CAD, control and regulation technology

Common Benefits and Compensation

Ventilation engineers are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and opportunities for remote work. Company cars, further training, and nationwide travel cards are common, especially with larger employers in consulting or installation industries. Travel and per diems may also be added when working at different construction sites.

Competition and Challenges

The competition for positions as a ventilation engineer varies regionally and between employers, but the demand for technical competence and experience is generally high. A challenge is the rapid technological development, with new regulations and digital tools requiring continuous further education. The profession can also involve working under time pressure and solving problems in complex projects. The shortage of certified specialists increases competition for the most attractive positions, while the job market can be sensitive to economic fluctuations in the construction and property sectors.

Tips for those wanting to become a Ventilation Engineer

To succeed as a ventilation engineer, it’s good to combine technical interest with analytical skills, as the job often involves solving complex problems in construction projects. A meticulous work approach is valuable for handling calculations and ensuring systems meet legal and customer requirements. Being communicative facilitates collaboration with colleagues and clients, especially when explaining technical solutions in an understandable way. Engagement in sustainability and energy efficiency is increasingly important, as the industry is driven by environmental goals and new technical demands. Developing the ability to work independently and in teams provides flexibility in a changing work environment. Practical experience from construction sites or technical environments is a big advantage, as it provides insight into the entire project chain. Finally, staying updated on relevant certifications and new digital tools is wise, as these are often sought after in the job market.

Key Facts about Ventilation Engineers

• Salary range: 37,000–68,000 SEK/month
• Average salary: 45 300 SEK/month
• Education level: Vocational college or university engineering
• Work environment: Office, construction sites, and technical rooms
• Job openings in the profession: 564

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years as a ventilation engineer, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as project manager, specialist in energy efficiency, or technical director. Some choose to deepen their expertise in advanced control and regulation technology, while others move into consulting or start their own businesses. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that there is no specific assessment for ventilation engineers, but demand for engineers and technicians in mechanical engineering remains stable. Technological development and increased environmental requirements suggest good future prospects, especially for those combining experience with certifications and digital skills.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ventilation Engineers

• What does a Ventilation Engineer earn?
  - A ventilation engineer has an average salary of 45 300 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development looked for ventilation engineers?
  - Salaries have increased from 41,500 SEK in 2022 to 45 300 SEK in 2024, a rise of about 9%.
• What education is required to become a ventilation engineer?
  - Usually, a vocational college diploma (2 years) or a university engineering degree (3 years) in HVAC, energy, or construction technology.
• Are there regional differences in salary?
  - Salary levels can vary depending on region and employer, but generally the average salary is relatively consistent across the country.
• How many job openings are available for ventilation engineers?
  - Currently, there are 564 job openings.
• Who are the most common employers?
  - Most work for technical consultancies, construction companies, property management firms, or in the public sector.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Many advance to project management, specialist roles, or start their own consulting firms.