He combines programming and science

"What is fascinating about programming is how you can create something out of nothing, bring something to life," says Fredrik.

It was his interest in technology that led him to choose to study engineering. Fredrik takes out his phone and points at the screen.

"This would just be a brick without its software. Through programming, you can bring it to life and make it do unexpected things. Essentially, creativity sets the limits for what is possible," Fredrik explains.

Last year, he transitioned from the telecommunications industry to a new challenge. He describes working as a scientific programmer in hydrology as interesting, fun, and challenging.

"I hadn’t worked with hydrology before joining SMHI. If I were to simplify what I do, I’d say that I work with systems that calculate what happens to water when it lands on the ground. I work with programmes that can predict where the water will go in the future."

Fredrik’s work contributes to forecasts of water flows, fire risks in forests and lands, and drought risks.

"Our goal is to build the most reliable systems possible, so they are stable and dependable. The systems I maintain are used, for example, by warning services, and if they don't function as they should, it can have serious consequences. What we do at SMHI plays a crucial role in society, which is why I was interested in this job," he explains.

Are there significant differences between working as a programmer and a scientific programmer?

I’m not a hydrologist, but that’s okay. I work with what I’m good at, and together with hydrologists and researchers, the result is useful hydrological products. The programming we do in my department is related to hydrology, meteorology, radar, and remote sensing. I use Linux and mostly programme in Python, which I also worked with before my time at SMHI.

Who is this job suitable for?

Someone who finds system development exciting; that’s a big part of what we do. But also for those who want a social job, as we collaborate with many departments and people.

What is the best part of working at SMHI?

The colleagues are so nice; that’s important. In my job, I meet many people with different skills, from researchers to IT professionals, with various backgrounds, nationalities, genders, and ages. SMHI is a large workplace, but I found it easy to fit in. The opportunity to influence technical solutions and the feeling that you are making a difference also weighs heavily.