Inspectors, fabrics

What does a fabric inspector do in textile production? – Tasks and work environment

A fabric inspector in textile production is responsible for checking and assessing the quality of fabrics before they proceed to the next stage in the manufacturing process. Tasks include carefully inspecting textiles for defects such as weaving errors, color variations, or other deviations from quality standards. The work is often performed on assembly lines or at designated inspection stations in textile factories. The environment can be noisy, and the pace varies depending on production demands and seasonality. The inspector uses both manual and technical tools to ensure only defect-free products move forward, requiring high precision and patience.

Wage development over time

The salary for a fabric inspector in textile production has shown a relatively stable trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 26,600 SEK per month, followed by a slight decrease to 26 500 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary increased to 27 800 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 4.9 % from the previous year. This salary increase can be linked to increased demand for quality assurance in the textile industry and inflationary pressures in the labor market. Despite year-to-year variations, the profession has shown a slow but positive trend, with wages keeping pace with the overall development for machine operators in industry.

Fabric inspector salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 27 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 23,400 SEK (male, government sector, high school education 3 years)
• Highest salary: 30,000 SEK (female, public sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage: 167 SEK (based on 166 working hours/month)
• Gender differences: Women earn on average 27 900 SEK, men 27 700 SEK
• Regional differences: No specific regional salary data available for the profession

Education and qualifications

To work as a fabric inspector, a minimum high school education is generally required, often with a focus on industry, textiles, or technology. Employers commonly offer internal training and mentorship at the workplace, especially for new hires. Practical experience from the textile industry or similar professions is advantageous for employment. Technical interest, color perception, and meticulousness are important qualities for success in the role.

• High school education: Industry, textile, or technology programs, 2–3 years
• Internship/Trainee: Common in connection with employment
• Internal training: Workplace-based training is standard
• Prerequisites: Precision, color perception, technical interest
• Tips for selection: Internship in the textile industry during high school increases chances of employment

Common benefits and compensations

Typical benefits for fabric inspectors in textile production include shift allowances, additional insurance coverage, health contributions, and opportunities for further training within the company. Many workplaces also offer subsidized lunches or work clothing. Collective agreements often apply, ensuring basic conditions and security.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for fabric inspectors in textile production is characterized by some competition, especially in regions where the textile industry is concentrated. As many tasks can be automated, there are increased demands for flexibility and technical knowledge. A limited number of training places and employers can make it challenging to establish oneself, particularly for recent graduates. At the same time, demand for quality assurance remains steady, so experienced inspectors often have good prospects for continued employment. Physical strain and monotonous tasks can be challenging for some, but those who are meticulous and persistent often thrive in the role.

Tips for those wanting to become a fabric inspector in textile production

To succeed as a fabric inspector, it is helpful to have an eye for detail and be meticulous, as this reduces the risk of faulty products slipping through the inspection. Patience and perseverance are important, as tasks can be repetitive and require full concentration over long periods. Technical interest is also beneficial, since many tasks involve machines and digital tools. Those who are cooperative and communicate clearly have an advantage when reporting defects and working in teams. Lastly, employers appreciate flexibility and adaptability, especially as production varies over time and new routines are introduced.

Key facts about fabric inspectors in textile production

• Education level: High school education, often industry- or textile-focused
• Work environment: Production facilities, sometimes noisy with shift work
• Typical employment: Full-time, often covered by collective agreements
• Demand: Stable in larger textile regions, 1437 job openings within the profession
• Special skills: Color perception, quality control, and technical handling

Career paths and future prospects

After several years in the profession, a fabric inspector can advance to more qualified roles, such as quality manager or team leader within production. With experience, there are also opportunities for further education to other positions within the textile industry, for example production technician or machine operator with broader responsibilities. The Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts indicate that there is currently no precise assessment of the future outlook for the profession due to limited data. However, statistics from SSYK show that there are 1437 job openings within the profession, indicating a good demand for labor in the industry. For those open to further training and specialization, there are good opportunities for long-term career development.

Common questions about fabric inspectors in textile production

• What does a fabric inspector earn?
  - The average salary for a fabric inspector is 27 800 SEK per month.
• Are there wage differences between men and women?
  - No, women earn on average the same as men in this profession (women: 27 900 SEK, men: 27 700 SEK).
• What education is required to become a fabric inspector?
  - High school education with a focus on industry, textiles, or technology is most common, often supplemented with internal training.
• What are the job tasks of a fabric inspector?
  - The main task is to inspect and assess the quality of fabrics through visual and technical inspection.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Forecasts are limited due to scarce data, but many job openings exist within the profession.
• What is the hourly wage for a fabric inspector?
  - Approximately 167 SEK (based on 166 working hours per month).
• What benefits are common for fabric inspectors?
  - Shift allowances, health insurance, collective agreements, and work clothing are common benefits.