A career in Saab: “Everything we do is about ensuring safety and quality”
How long have you been working at Saab, and what do you do?
I’ve been in my current department for almost two years - by June, it will be two years. I work with surface treatment, primarily on the Gripen aircraft, ensuring that materials and coatings meet the necessary quality and durability standards.
Where were you before this role? Were you already at Saab?
Yes, I was. I had just finished my studies when I got the job, but before that, I had a summer job in the Environmental and Chemical Services group. I also worked part-time there during my last year of studies.
What made you want to stay at Saab after finishing your studies?
I had wanted to work at Saab since I started studying - maybe I’m a little biased because my mom works here too. But I also wasn’t sure if there would be a role for me since I studied chemical engineering with a focus on materials. Once I started working here, I realized how much I enjoyed it. The work is interesting, the people are great, and I feel like I’m contributing to something important. Plus, I wanted to move closer to home, and Saab in Linköping was the perfect fit.
What’s the most enjoyable part of your job?
Definitely my colleagues. I also like the variety - no two days are the same. There are always new challenges, problem-solving, and discussions about how to improve things. It’s a job where I constantly feel like I’m learning and growing. Also, I have a very supportive manager, which makes a big difference.
What kind of challenges do you face in your role?
A lot of it comes down to learning different systems and processes. Sometimes, we encounter issues in a process and have to figure out the best way to solve them. There’s not always an obvious answer, so it involves working with many different specialists across Saab. It’s a mix of theoretical knowledge and practical application - learning from colleagues, understanding how things work in production, and finding solutions together.
How would you describe the company culture in your department?
It’s a really open and positive culture. We laugh a lot, and there’s a strong sense of camaraderie. If someone is having a bad day, they can be open about it, and there’s always support. Since most people come into the office rather than working remotely, we’ve built strong relationships. It’s a mix of different ages, but we all get along well, and no one is afraid to ask questions or admit when they don’t know something.
Describe the learning culture at Saab.
Learning is a big part of the job here. There are many experienced colleagues who have been at Saab for a long time and are always willing to share their knowledge. When I started, I learned a lot from them, and now that we’ve hired new people, I find myself passing on that knowledge as well. There’s a natural way of learning from each other, and you’re encouraged to ask questions and seek out knowledge. Saab also offers training opportunities, but a lot of learning happens in everyday problem-solving and collaboration.
Saab’s mission is "Keeping People and Society Safe." How does that connect to your work?
It’s very closely connected. We mainly work with Gripen, and it’s important to me - and to Saab as a whole - that we can defend ourselves if needed. Our goal isn’t about war; it’s about security and ensuring people feel safe. My specific work focuses on making sure the aircraft are reliable and durable. For example, surface treatment is crucial to preventing corrosion, which could lead to serious issues. Everything we do is about ensuring safety and quality.
How would you describe Saab as an innovative company?
It’s definitely innovative. There are always internal projects focused on developing new technologies. Saab constantly looks for ways to improve, whether it’s adopting new techniques, materials, or systems. Across different departments, there are always new initiatives pushing things forward.
What advice would you give to someone starting at Saab?
Be open to trying new things. Step outside your comfort zone - it will help you grow a lot. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, even if they seem basic, because that’s how you learn. Also, take the time to get to know your colleagues. Having a positive attitude goes a long way, and if you approach things with curiosity and optimism, you’ll go far. And most importantly, just be yourself.
What kind of reactions do you get when you tell people you work at Saab?
People usually think it’s really cool. Friends, or even my partner’s friends, often say, "Wow, that’s awesome." There’s a certain prestige to it, and I think a lot of people see it as an exciting and meaningful place to work.
Saab is a big company with many different career paths. What should potential employees know about the variety of opportunities available?
A lot of people might assume Saab is mainly for mechanical engineers or IT specialists, but the opportunities here are much broader. We have roles for all kinds of engineers, but also economists, procurement specialists, and many other professions. When I studied in Gothenburg, Saab wasn’t as well known outside of certain engineering fields, but I think it’s important to highlight that Saab needs people from many different backgrounds. There’s a place for a wide range of skills here.
What’s the coolest product at Saab, in your opinion?
Gripen, without a doubt.
If someone has just finished their studies and is looking for a job, why should they apply to Saab?
Because it’s an exciting place to work. You get to be part of something important and work with advanced technology. There are great opportunities to develop, and the people here make it a really good environment to be in.