Supervisor, paper mill

What does a production supervisor do in a paper mill? – Tasks and work environment

A production supervisor in a paper mill is responsible for leading and coordinating the daily work within the production of paper and paper products. Tasks include planning production flows, staffing, quality assurance, and ensuring compliance with work environment and safety regulations. It also involves developing processes, solving urgent problems, and working closely with production technicians and operators. The work environment is often industrial, meaning the supervisor moves between offices and production halls, sometimes in shift work. The role requires leadership, technical understanding, and good communication skills.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for production supervisors in paper mills has steadily increased. In 2022, the average salary was 43,100 SEK per month, followed by 44,500 SEK in 2023 and 46 100 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 7% during the period. This positive trend can be partly explained by high demand for qualified supervisors in the industry, increased requirements for technical skills, and general wage growth in manufacturing sectors. The salary development has also been influenced by regional competition for labor and investments in more advanced production technology within paper mills. It is clear that the role of production supervisor in a paper mill is highly valued and that the long-term salary trend is stable.

Production supervisor salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 46 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 41,900 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, 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
• Gender differences: Women earn 95% of men's salary (men: 46 500 SEK, women: 44 200 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salary variations occur depending on region and mill size

Education and qualifications

To work as a production supervisor in a paper mill, a technical or industrial post-secondary education is usually required, often complemented with experience from production and leadership. Employers typically require both formal degrees and practical experience from similar environments. Many supervisors have built their skills through courses in work environment, production technology, and leadership.

• Post-secondary education: Technical focus, usually 2–3 years
• Leadership training: Courses or certificates in work management
• Internship or trainee programs: Common in larger paper mills
• Prerequisites: Experience from production or industrial work
• Additional merits: Courses in work environment, process industry, or quality management

Common benefits and compensations

Production supervisors in paper mills are often offered benefits such as collective agreement-based occupational pension, wellness contributions, opportunities for skills development, and sometimes bonus programs linked to production results. Shift work may provide additional pay, and flexible hours are common. Some employers also offer subsidized lunches or extra vacation days.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a production supervisor in a paper mill is relatively high, especially in regions with several large mills or where the industry is growing. Challenges in the profession often involve balancing production demands with work environment, safety, and personnel development. Technological developments increase demands for digital skills and the ability to lead change initiatives. The industry is also influenced by sustainability requirements and a shift toward more environmentally friendly production, meaning supervisors need to be flexible and quickly adapt to new conditions. The ability to handle stress and make quick decisions is also central.

Tips for aspiring production supervisors in a paper mill

To succeed as a production supervisor in a paper mill, it is beneficial to combine technical knowledge with strong leadership and communication skills. Gaining early experience in production and actively seeking responsibility within the team provides good foundations for future supervisory roles. Being organized facilitates production planning and makes it easier to handle unexpected situations. A problem-solving attitude helps during operational stoppages or when processes need to be streamlined. It is also important to motivate and develop employees, which requires both sensitivity and clarity in communication. Continuously updating oneself on new technologies and work environment regulations is advantageous. Finally, an interest in sustainability and the environment benefits those who want to contribute to the future development of paper mills.

Key facts about production supervisors in a paper mill

• Education level: Post-secondary technical education (2–3 years)
• Work environment: Industrial environment with office and production work
• Typical work pattern: Shift work and daytime, depending on the mill's operation
• Demand: High, with over 1,400 job openings in the profession
• Special skills: Leadership, production technology, and work environment

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a production supervisor in a paper mill, career development can lead to more senior leadership roles, such as production manager, operations supervisor, or process development specialist. Those wishing to broaden their skills can explore opportunities in project management, quality development, or environmental work within the industry. According to the Employment Service, the outlook is good, with continued high demand for qualified supervisors in manufacturing. Technological advancements and increased focus on sustainability are expected to further increase the need for experienced leaders with technical expertise.

Frequently asked questions about production supervisors in a paper mill

• What does a production supervisor earn in a paper mill?
  - The average salary is 46 100 SEK per month, but it varies depending on experience, gender, and employer.
• What education is required to become a production supervisor in a paper mill?
  - Usually, a post-secondary education in engineering or industry, often supplemented with work experience.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn on average 95% of men's salaries in the profession.
• What is the work environment like for production supervisors in a paper mill?
  - The work environment is industrial, involving both office work and presence in production, sometimes with shift work.
• Are there good job opportunities?
  - Yes, demand is high with over 1400 job openings within the profession.
• What career opportunities are there after a few years in the profession?
  - Opportunities include advancing to production manager, operations supervisor, or specialist roles.
• What is the hourly wage for a production supervisor in a paper mill?
  - The average is 277 SEK per hour for hourly-paid employees.