Ventilation technician, engineer

What does a ventilation technician, engineer do? – Tasks and work environment

A ventilation technician, engineer, works with designing, installing, commissioning, and maintaining ventilation systems in everything from homes to industrial buildings and public spaces. Tasks often include technical problem-solving, system optimization, energy efficiency, documentation, and coordination with other technical disciplines. The profession involves close contact with clients and contractors, requiring both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The work environment varies between offices, construction sites, and technical rooms, demanding flexibility and safety awareness.

Salary development over time

The salary for a ventilation technician, engineer, has shown a clear upward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 41,500 SEK per month, increasing to 43 700 SEK in 2023 and further to 45 300 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of about 9.1% over three years, which is higher than the average salary growth for many other technical professions. This development reflects increased demand for specialized skills in ventilation and energy efficiency, as well as a general skills shortage in the VA/HVAC and mechanical engineering sectors. Higher certification and technical knowledge requirements have also contributed to rising salaries within the profession.

Ventilation technician, engineer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 45 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 37,000 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 68,000 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, postgraduate education)
• Hourly wage: 272 SEK
• Women earn: 43 200 SEK (95% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 45 600 SEK
• Regional differences: Salary levels vary slightly between urban and rural areas, but differences are generally small within the profession.

Education and qualifications

To work as a ventilation technician, engineer, a technical education in HVAC, ventilation, or energy is generally required. Many have a university or vocational college degree, but technical high school programs with supplementary courses can also be a pathway into the profession. Practical experience and certifications are often advantageous and sometimes necessary depending on the employer and work area.

• Vocational college education in HVAC/ventilation: 2–3 years
• University engineering degree (mechanical engineering/energy): 3 years
• Certifications: Examples include OVK (Mandatory Ventilation Inspection), BAS-P/BAS-U
• Internship: Often a mandatory part of the education
• Prerequisites: Mathematics, technology, physics at high school level
• Courses/professional development: Opportunities for specialization via short courses and online training

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to the base salary, ventilation technicians and engineers are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, company cars or car allowances, flexible working hours, and opportunities for further training. Some workplaces also have bonus or profit-sharing schemes, extra vacation days, and enhanced pension contributions. Personal protective equipment and work clothing are usually provided by the employer.

Challenges and competition

The demand for ventilation technicians and engineers remains high, but competition for the most attractive positions can be significant in larger cities where many seek employment with the same employers. Technological changes, increased requirements for energy efficiency, and digitalization of systems mean that professionals must continually update their skills and adapt to new standards. Challenges can also arise in complex projects where coordination across different technical areas is crucial. The industry is additionally influenced by economic cycles and investments in the construction sector, which can affect the number of available jobs over time.

Tips for those wanting to become ventilation technicians, engineers

To succeed as a ventilation technician, engineer, it’s good to have analytical skills and an interest in technical solutions, as problem-solving is often a central part of the work. Being communicative and service-minded facilitates collaboration with colleagues and clients, especially during design and troubleshooting. Precision is important in documentation and ensuring ventilation systems meet legal requirements and standards. Flexibility and initiative are valued by employers, as tasks can vary greatly from day to day. A genuine interest in sustainability and energy efficiency also provides advantages, as the industry is rapidly developing towards greener solutions. Staying updated with new technologies and regulations is crucial for long-term success in the profession.

Key facts about ventilation technicians, engineers

• Salary range: 37,000–68,000 SEK/month
• Average salary: 45 300 SEK/month
• Education level: Vocational college or university engineering (2–3 years)
• Work environment: Varies between office, construction site, and technical rooms
• Demand: 564 available jobs within the profession (May 2024)

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years in the profession, there are good opportunities to advance to more qualified roles such as project manager, energy efficiency specialist, or consultant within ventilation and climate systems. The job market is characterized by steady demand, although the Employment Service does not provide an exact forecast for this specific title due to limited data. However, the large number of available positions indicates continued high demand. Further training and certifications can open doors to managerial roles or specialist positions within larger companies and municipal operations. The industry’s move towards sustainability and digitalization is also expected to create new career opportunities in the future.

Frequently asked questions about ventilation technicians, engineers

• What does a ventilation technician, engineer earn?
  - The average salary is 45 300 SEK per month, with a range between 37,000 and 68,000 SEK.
• What education is required to become a ventilation technician, engineer?
  - Usually, a vocational college education or university engineering degree in HVAC, mechanical engineering, or energy is required.
• What is the job market like?
  - Currently, there are 564 available jobs within the profession, indicating strong demand.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 95% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What tasks are included in the profession?
  - Tasks include designing, installing, operating, and maintaining ventilation systems, as well as consulting and energy efficiency improvements.
• What benefits are common?
  - Common benefits include wellness allowances, company cars, flexible hours, and opportunities for professional development.
• Can one work both practically and theoretically?
  - Yes, the profession combines project work and drawing interpretation with practical site tasks.