Pickers, ceramic firing

What does an unloader in ceramic firing do? – Tasks and work environment

An unloader in ceramic firing primarily handles and removes ceramic items from the kilns after the firing process is completed. The tasks include inspecting, sorting, and sometimes assessing the quality of the fired ware for further processing or packaging. The work is often carried out in a production environment with high demands for precision and caution, as ceramic items can be fragile and hot after firing. The role also involves collaborating with other parts of the production, such as kiln operators and packers, to ensure a smooth workflow. The work environment is usually industrial and may involve monotonous and physically demanding tasks, especially during heavy lifting or handling larger items.

Wage development over time

The salary for unloaders in ceramic firing has shown steady and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 28,200 SEK per month, which increased to 30 300 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary continued to rise to 31 400 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 11% over the period. This wage development reflects an increased demand for skills in craft production despite the overall oversupply of applicants nationally. Wage increases may also be due to general industry pay raises and employers' efforts to retain experienced personnel in a specialized niche. Meanwhile, it remains clear that the gender pay gap persists, with women earning 95% of what men do in the profession.

Unloader in ceramic firing salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 31 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,100 SEK/month (female), 30,900 SEK/month (male)
• Highest salary: 33,300 SEK/month (female), 35,800 SEK/month (male)
• Hourly wage: 189 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 30 500 SEK, men 31 900 SEK (women earn 95% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Lowest wages are found in the regional sector, highest in the public sector

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming an unloader in ceramic firing usually involves high school education in crafts, industry, or equivalent practical programs. Formal education requirements are generally low, but employers value practical experience in industrial work and an understanding of material handling. Skill is typically developed through on-the-job introduction and supervised training, where safe handling of ceramics and work environment regulations are central. Additional courses in production technology or materials science can be advantageous.

• Formal education: High school in crafts or industry (2–3 years)
• Practical training: Introduction and supervision at the workplace
• Courses: Materials science, safety, and handling of ceramics
• Prerequisites: Attention to detail and basic physical conditions
• Tips for entry: Experience in industrial work facilitates entry

Common benefits and compensations

Unloaders in ceramic firing often have access to collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, insurance, and wellness contributions. Other common compensations include overtime pay for shift work, work clothing, and sometimes subsidized lunches. Longer employment periods may also include extra vacation days and opportunities for skills development.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an unloader in ceramic firing is generally high, as the profession is part of a broad occupational group with an oversupply of labor nationally. Job opportunities are limited, and the recruitment situation is characterized by many applicants per vacancy. Demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years according to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts. Challenges in the profession may also include monotonous tasks, physically demanding conditions, and the need to maintain high accuracy throughout the workday. To stand out in recruitment, documented experience or special skills are often required.

Tips for those wanting to become an unloader in ceramic firing

To succeed as an unloader in ceramic firing, it is good to be both meticulous and resilient, as the work requires constant attention and precision when handling fragile ware. Developing good teamwork skills facilitates collaboration with colleagues in the production chain and contributes to an efficient work environment. Practical problem-solving skills are valuable, especially when unexpected challenges arise during the firing process. It is also important to have a certain physical strength and tolerate repetitive tasks, as the work can be both static and physically demanding. Showing interest in materials science and production technology can provide advantages in employment or further training. Flexibility and adaptability are appreciated by employers, especially during shift work or changing routines. Finally, a methodical approach and the ability to quickly absorb new instructions within the industry are highly valued.

Key facts about unloaders in ceramic firing

• Education level: High school (2–3 years)
• Work environment: Industrial production, often physically demanding
• Demand: Limited opportunities, oversupply of labor
• Occupational group: Hand packers and other factory workers
• Job openings: 1,437 nationwide within the occupational group

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an unloader in ceramic firing, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as team leader, supervisor, or production manager within the ceramic industry. Some choose to further their education in production technology, quality control, or specialize in other parts of industrial manufacturing. The Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts indicate that job opportunities for hand packers are limited and demand is expected to remain unchanged over five years. Despite the oversupply of labor, there are still over 1,400 job openings nationwide, indicating some mobility and opportunities for those with the right skills and experience.

Common questions about unloaders in ceramic firing

• What does an unloader in ceramic firing earn?
  - The average salary is 31 400 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 189 SEK.
• How do gender differences look within the profession?
  - Women earn on average 30 500 SEK while men earn 31 900 SEK, meaning women earn 95% of men's wages.
• What education is required to become an unloader in ceramic firing?
  - High school education in crafts or industry is most common, together with on-the-job training.
• What does the job market look like for unloaders in ceramic firing?
  - The job market is characterized by an oversupply of labor and limited opportunities, but there are over 1,400 job openings within the profession.
• What personal qualities are important in the profession?
  - Attention to detail, endurance, and teamwork skills are especially important for success.
• Are there opportunities for advancement?
  - Yes, with experience, one can advance to supervisor or production manager within the industry.