Supervisor, packing, filling and marking

What does a supervisor in packing, filling, and labeling do? – Tasks and work environment

A supervisor in packing, filling, and labeling is responsible for leading and coordinating work on the production floor where goods are packed, filled, and labeled for further distribution. Tasks include planning staffing, ensuring work steps meet quality and safety standards, and optimizing flow to minimize downtime and errors. The role also involves onboarding and mentoring new staff, monitoring production pace, and reporting results to higher management. The work environment is often industrial, involving physical tasks, requiring attention to detail, leadership skills, and good communication between teams.

Salary development over time

The salary for supervisors in packing, filling, and labeling has shown a steady upward trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,100 SEK per month, increasing to 44,500 SEK in 2023 and reaching 46 100 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 7% over three years. This salary development reflects increased demand for experienced supervisors in manufacturing as well as a general appreciation of leadership skills in the production chain. Market needs for efficient production and quality assurance have made the supervisor's role increasingly central, positively impacting salaries. Regional differences may exist, but the overall trend is clearly upward, especially in larger industrial regions with high competition for qualified labor.

Supervisor in packing and labeling salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 46 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 41,900 SEK/month (female, private sector worker, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Highest salary: 51,500 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage (average): 277 SEK
• Women's average salary: 44 200 SEK/month (95% of men's salary)
• Men's average salary: 46 500 SEK/month

Education and qualifications

To work as a supervisor in packing, filling, and labeling, at least high school education is typically required, preferably with a technical or industrial focus. Post-secondary studies in production, logistics, or leadership are advantageous and can increase opportunities for higher pay and responsibility. Practical experience from production or warehousing is highly valued, as is documented leadership experience. It is often important to continuously update skills in areas such as work environment, quality assurance, and digital production systems.

• High school education: Industry, technology, or similar focus
• Post-secondary education: Production, logistics, or leadership (1–3 years)
• Certifications: Work environment, quality, forklift licenses may be required
• Practical experience: Previous work in production/warehouse
• Leadership training: Meritorious for greater responsibility

Common benefits and compensation

In addition to base salary, benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, work clothing, and sometimes bonuses linked to production results are often offered. Other common compensations may include shift allowances, training opportunities, and sometimes subsidized meals. The extent of benefits varies between employers and collective agreements.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as supervisors in packing, filling, and labeling is relatively high, especially in regions with a lot of industry. Many employers seek candidates with several years of experience and documented leadership skills, which can make it difficult for newly educated individuals to enter the profession directly. The profession's challenges often involve balancing demands from management and staff, handling production disruptions, and maintaining a safe and pleasant work environment. Clear communication and the ability to motivate the team are crucial for success. Digitalization of production also means that supervisors need to stay updated on new systems and processes.

Tips for aspiring supervisors in packing and labeling

To succeed as a supervisor in packing, filling, and labeling, it is beneficial to develop strong communication skills and be clear in instructions to the team. A structured work approach makes it easier to plan production and quickly identify bottlenecks. The ability to handle stress and make decisions under pressure is vital, especially during unexpected production stoppages. Being attentive and having good teamwork skills strengthen relationships with both staff and managers. It is also important to constantly seek to learn new things, such as about work environment and digital tools, to remain attractive in the job market and take on greater responsibilities over time.

Key facts about supervisors in packing and labeling

• Education level: High school or post-secondary education 1–3 years
• Work environment: Industrial, often shift work
• Typical employment: Full-time with personnel responsibility
• Demand: 1437 job openings in Sweden (2024)
• Special skills: Leadership, production planning, quality assurance

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a supervisor in packing, filling, and labeling, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as production manager, logistics manager, or other leadership positions within manufacturing. The Swedish Employment Service's forecasts show that the demand for experienced supervisors in manufacturing remains stable, with many retirements and a growing need for efficient production. Digitalization and automation also create new demands and opportunities for supervisors to specialize in areas such as lean production or digital production systems. The profession is considered stable with continued career growth for those willing to develop within the industry.

Frequently asked questions about supervisors in packing and labeling

• What does a Supervisor in packing, filling, and labeling earn?
  - The average salary is 46 100 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, education, and region.
• How do salary differences between men and women look?
  - Men earn an average of 46 500 SEK, while women earn an average of 44 200 SEK, which corresponds to 95% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a supervisor in packing?
  - High school education with a technical or industrial focus is most common, but post-secondary studies and leadership training are advantageous.
• Are there significant regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries can vary depending on industry size and competition for labor in different regions.
• What are the biggest challenges in the profession?
  - Managing production efficiency, leading staff, and quickly solving unexpected problems are central challenges.
• What career opportunities are available after a few years?
  - There are good chances to advance to roles such as production manager or logistics supervisor.