Construction, machine operator

What does a construction worker in the machine operator profession do? – Tasks and work environment

Construction workers in the machine operator profession primarily work with operating and maintaining heavy construction machinery such as excavators, wheel loaders, and track tractors at construction sites and infrastructure projects. Tasks include land preparation, excavation, material loading, and the construction of roads, pipelines, and foundations. The work is often outdoors in varying weather conditions and can involve physically demanding tasks as well as precision in machine handling. Safety and collaboration with other trades on the construction site are central parts of the work environment.

Salary development over time

The salary for construction workers and machine operators has developed steadily over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 34,700 SEK, followed by a slight increase to 34 900 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 35 600 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 2.6% over the period. This development reflects a continued strong demand for the profession, with employers needing to offer competitive salaries to attract qualified machine operators. Market needs for infrastructure investments and increased focus on efficiency in construction projects contribute to the positive salary trend. Despite the steady increase, gender pay gaps are small, indicating a relatively equal salary structure within the profession.

Construction worker, machine operator salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 35 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 33,100 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, more than 3 years of post-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 37,400 SEK/month (female, regional sector, up to 2 years of upper secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 214 SEK/hour
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 99% of what men do (35 200 SEK/month vs 35 600 SEK/month)
• Regional differences: Highest salaries for women are found in the regional sector, while the lowest for men are among private sector employees.

Education and qualifications

To work as a construction worker in the machine operator profession, a upper secondary education in the construction and civil engineering program is usually required, preferably with a focus on machine operation. Additionally, certificates for specific machinery and practical experience are highly valued. Some employers may also require additional certifications depending on the machinery fleet and safety requirements at the workplace.

• Upper secondary education: Construction and civil engineering program, 3 years
• Certificates: Vocational certificates for construction machinery (e.g., excavator, wheel loader)
• Internships: Longer internships during education or as a trainee
• Prerequisites: B driver's license, good physical condition, technical interest
• Tips for choosing: Combine education with summer jobs or part-time work in the construction sector for practical experience

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for construction workers and machine operators include occupational pension, wellness allowance, work clothing, and sometimes per diems when working at other locations. Some employers also offer further training, additional certifications, and bonus programs linked to projects or work performance.

Competition and challenges

The profession as a construction worker and machine operator is characterized by a strong labor market with great opportunities for nationwide employment. At the same time, recruitment difficulties are reported, meaning employers sometimes struggle to find the right skills. A challenge is that many leave the profession for other industries, leading to a continuous need for new machine operators. Technological changes and increased digitalization also demand ongoing skills development. The work environment can be physically demanding, and outdoor work year-round means weather and seasons can affect working conditions.

Tips for those wanting to become a construction worker, machine operator

To succeed as a construction worker and machine operator, it is good to be meticulous, technically interested, and have good teamwork skills. A strong sense of responsibility helps you operate machines safely and efficiently, while flexibility makes it easier to adapt to different work environments and projects. Showing initiative and willingness to learn new machines or techniques increases your chances of development. Practical experience is highly valued, so seek internships or summer jobs in the construction sector early. Good physical condition and tolerance for outdoor work facilitate daily routines, and being communicative contributes to good teamwork on site.

Key facts about construction workers, machine operators

• Education level: Upper secondary education, preferably with vocational certificates for machine operation
• Work environment: Outdoors at construction sites, often in teams
• Demand: Great opportunities for nationwide employment
• Special skills: Machinery handling and safety routines
• Available jobs: 379 current vacancies within the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, construction workers and machine operators can advance to roles such as supervisor, machine operator manager, or specialize in advanced machinery types. There are also opportunities to further qualify as a site manager or project manager within the construction and civil engineering industry. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, demand for machine operators remains unchanged over the next five years, and job opportunities are considered very good. Recruitment difficulties mean employers often value experience and further training highly. The profession is flexible and can lead to work in both public and private sectors.

Frequently asked questions about construction workers, machine operators

• What is the salary of a construction worker, machine operator?
  - The average salary is 35 600 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 214 SEK.
• What education is required to become a machine operator?
  - Upper secondary education in the construction and civil engineering program is recommended, along with vocational certificates for specific machinery.
• Are there gender pay gaps?
  - The pay gap is small; women earn 99% of what men do in the profession.
• What is the job market like?
  - Opportunities for employment are abundant, with 379 available jobs within the profession.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Occupational pension, wellness allowance, work clothing, and sometimes per diems are often included.
• What is the highest salary for a construction worker, machine operator?
  - The highest salary is 37,400 SEK/month and belongs to a woman in the regional sector.
• What career paths are available?
  - After a few years, you can become a supervisor, machine operator manager, or pursue further education as a site manager.