Automatic operator, workshop

What does an automated operator do in a workshop? – Tasks and work environment

An automated operator in a workshop is responsible for monitoring, controlling, and maintaining automated machines and production lines in the metal industry. Tasks include starting, stopping, and overseeing machines, checking product quality, refilling materials, and performing basic maintenance and troubleshooting. Documentation of production and reporting deviations to management or technicians are also common. The work environment is characterized by industrial settings with noise, heavy lifting, and shift work. Safety regulations and attention to detail are central to daily routines, and teamwork is common to ensure a smooth production flow.

Salary development over time

The salary for automated operators in workshops has shown a relatively stable and positive trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,000 SEK per month, which increased to 34 000 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary is 35 200 SEK, representing a total increase of about 6.7% over three years. This salary growth reflects both the continued high demand for skilled automated operators and an increased focus on technical competence in the industry. At the same time, automation and technological advancements have contributed to raising qualification requirements, positively affecting salary levels. However, demand for labor is expected to decrease in the longer term due to further automation, which may impact future salary development.

Automated operator, workshop salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 35 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,400 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, less than 9 years of education)
• Highest salary: 36,100 SEK/month (male, various sectors, more than 3 years of post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 212 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Men 35 400 SEK/month, women 34 100 SEK/month (women earn 96% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on demand and industry presence, especially in regions with a large metal industry.

Education and qualifications

To work as an automated operator in a workshop, a high school education in industrial technology or equivalent is usually required, sometimes supplemented with internal training at the workplace. Experience from industrial work and basic knowledge in technology and production are advantageous. Some employers also require certificates or courses in machine safety and maintenance. Practical experience is highly valued and can often outweigh formal education.

• High school education: Industrial technology program, 3 years
• Certifications: Safety and machine certificates, often internal or via industry organizations
• Internship: Work-based learning (WBL) during education
• Experience: Previous work in industry is advantageous
• Prerequisites: Basic technical interest and ability to follow instructions

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for automated operators in workshops include shift allowances for evening and night work, wellness contributions, work clothes, and sometimes subsidized lunches. Some employers also offer bonuses, extra vacation days, and opportunities for further training. Occupational pensions and insurances are standard in most industrial employment.

Competition and challenges

The job market for automated operators in workshops is characterized today by high demand and a skills shortage, especially in the metal industry where technological development is rapid. At the same time, increased automation and digitalization mean that tasks are changing and qualification profiles are rising. The ability to quickly understand new machine systems and technology is crucial to remain competitive. In the long term, demand may decrease due to further automation, making continuous retraining and staying updated important. Competition for the most attractive positions may increase, especially in regions with fewer industries.

Tips for those who want to become an automated operator in a workshop

To succeed as an automated operator, it is good to have a technical interest and be precise in your work. Developing problem-solving skills facilitates troubleshooting and handling unexpected stops in production. Flexibility is an important trait since the work often involves shifts and varied tasks. Being cooperative is also valuable, as much of the work is team-based and requires good communication. Responsibility and safety awareness are essential for your own and others’ safety at the workplace. Proactive learning, exploring new technologies and machine systems, increases opportunities for advancement. Finally, taking advantage of internships and trainee programs helps build experience and networks within the industry.

Key facts about Automated Operators, workshop

• Education level: High school diploma, industrial technology program
• Work environment: Industrial workshop, often shift work
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment, but declining in the long term
• Gender distribution: Fewer women, men earn on average more
• Special skills: Machine handling, technical and safety knowledge

Career paths and outlook

After 3–5 years as an automated operator in a workshop, opportunities open up for roles such as machine operator with more advanced technical focus, production technician, or supervisor within industry. Further education can lead to specialization in maintenance or automation. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, employment prospects remain strong nationally, but demand is expected to decrease slightly over five years due to increased automation and technological development. However, there are still good chances to find work, especially for those who stay updated and continue their training in new machine systems. Currently, there are 1,437 job openings in the field of machine setters and operators, indicating continued high mobility in the labor market.

Frequently asked questions about Automated Operators, workshop

• What does an automated operator earn in a workshop?
  - An automated operator in a workshop has an average salary of 35 200 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become an automated operator?
  - High school education in industrial technology or equivalent is most common, often supplemented with internal training.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn on average 35 400 SEK and women 34 100 SEK, which means women earn 96% of men's salaries.
• What does the job market look like for automated operators?
  - Opportunities for employment are large today, but demand is expected to decrease slightly in the longer term due to automation.
• What tasks does an automated operator perform?
  - Tasks include monitoring and maintaining automated production machines, performing basic maintenance, and quality control.
• What career paths are available after some years in the profession?
  - It is common to advance to roles such as production technician, supervisor, or specialize in automation.
• What are the working hours for automated operators?
  - Work often occurs in shifts, which may include evenings, nights, and weekends.