How much does a Arc welder make

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  2. Arc welder
Image that illustrates Arc welder

Arc welder

35 900 kr

Welders and gas cutters

32 500 - 38 200 kr / month

Women earn 91% of what men do.

Industriell tillverkning

What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Arc welder

Average salary 35 900 kr
Males 36 100 kr
Females 32 800 kr
1 Likes 0 Comments 79 Vacant jobs ->

What does an arc welder do? – Tasks and work environment

Arc welders work on joining metal components using electric welding, often within manufacturing industries, construction, or workshop environments. Their tasks typically include preparing materials, reading drawings and technical descriptions, setting up and operating welding equipment, and inspecting welds for quality and durability. The work environment can vary and sometimes be demanding, with work both indoors in workshops and outdoors at construction sites. Protective gear and precision are often required to ensure safety when handling hot materials and intense light arcs.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, arc welders have experienced a steady increase in salary. In 2022, the average salary was 32,600 SEK, which increased to 34 000 SEK in 2023. The latest year, 2024, saw the average salary rise further to 35 900 SEK. This represents a total increase of approximately 10.1% over three years. The positive trend can partly be explained by continued high demand for skilled welders, as employers compete for the right expertise. Technological advancements and increased quality and certification requirements have also contributed to rising wages. Despite these increases, differences between genders and regions and sectors remain.

Arc welder salary – comprehensive overview

  • Average salary: 35 900 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 32,500 SEK/month (men, public sector)
  • Highest salary: 38,200 SEK/month (men, private sector, post-secondary education)
  • Hourly wage: 216 SEK/hour
  • Women's average salary: 32,800 SEK/month (91% of men's salary)
  • Regional differences: Salary levels can vary between counties and labor market areas, with metropolitan regions often offering slightly higher wages.

Education and qualifications

To work as an arc welder, a high school vocational education in industrial technology is usually required, often with a focus on welding. Many employers also require certifications, especially for more advanced welding methods and materials. Practical experience and good understanding of reading drawings are important qualifications for success in the profession.

  • Vocational training: High school or adult education in industrial technology (about 3 years)
  • Certifications: Welding tests/certificates according to SS-EN ISO 9606 or similar
  • Internship: Practical periods are often included during training
  • Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of mathematics and technology
  • Additional training: Opportunities for further education and specialization, such as robot or pipe welding

Arc welders often have the opportunity to work internationally, as welding standards and techniques are universal within the industry. This opens doors for work on major infrastructure projects and within advanced manufacturing worldwide.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensation

Arc welders are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, work clothing and protective equipment, as well as opportunities for further training and certifications at the employer's expense. Shift work may occur, sometimes with additional pay for overtime and night shifts. In some cases, bonus schemes and pension contributions are part of the employment conditions.

Competition and challenges

The job market for arc welders is characterized by high demand but also recruitment difficulties due to a lack of the right skills. Despite this, competition for the most attractive positions can be tough, especially in regions with a strong industrial presence. Technical changes, such as automation and robotization, increase demands for flexibility and skill development. At the same time, the profession involves physical and environmental challenges, requiring strict adherence to safety regulations. For those willing to further their education and stay updated, there are good prospects for a stable and long-term career.

Tips for aspiring arc welders

To succeed as an arc welder, it helps to have a technical interest and a meticulous personality, as the work requires precision and attention to detail. Endurance and good physical condition are advantageous, as the job often involves heavy lifting and working in strenuous positions. Practical problem-solving skills are valuable, especially when unexpected challenges arise during welding. It is also important to be cooperative, as many projects are team-based where communication and responsibility are essential. Continuously furthering your education and obtaining certifications increases both competence and employability. Flexibility is also helpful, as workplaces and working hours can vary. Lastly, safety awareness is fundamental to minimize risks in daily work.

Key facts about arc welders

  • Education level: High school vocational training, supplemented with certifications
  • Work environment: Varied, often industrial or construction sites
  • Demand: Great opportunities for work, especially in industrial regions
  • Special skills: Reading drawings, material knowledge, and welding certificates
  • Work arrangement: Often full-time, sometimes shift work and project employment

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, an arc welder can advance to more specialized roles, such as welding inspector, welding instructor, or production supervisor. Opportunities also exist to work with more advanced welding methods or quality control. According to the Employment Service's forecast, job opportunities remain large nationwide, with demand expected to stay steady over the next five years. Recruitment difficulties are present, increasing the chances for those with the right education and certifications. Currently, there are 1437 job openings reported within the industry, underscoring the need for competent workers.

Frequently asked questions about arc welders

  • What is the average salary of an arc welder?
    - An arc welder has an average salary of 35 900 SEK per month.
  • What education is required to become an arc welder?
    - High school vocational training in industrial technology and welding certification are usually required.
  • Are there gender differences in arc welder salaries?
    - Yes, women earn on average 91% of what men do in the profession.
  • What are the future prospects for arc welders?
    - The Employment Service estimates that job opportunities are plentiful and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
  • What are the most common workplaces for arc welders?
    - Arc welders primarily work in the workshop industry, construction, and larger manufacturing companies.
  • How much does an arc welder earn per hour?
    - The hourly wage for arc welders averages 216 SEK.
  • What is the highest and lowest salary for arc welders?
    - The highest salary is 38,200 SEK and the lowest is 32,500 SEK, depending on sector and education level.

Richard Andersson

Richard Andersson - 2025-07-10 20:52:36

Occupation
Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Arc welder is 38200 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Privately employed officials with a post-secondary education, less than 3 years. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 33200 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Arc welder is 32500 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Government sector. The lowest salary for a woman in this profession is 32800 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
18-24 31200 kr 32500 kr
25-34 33900 kr 35600 kr
35-44 35600 kr 36700 kr
45-54 35400 kr 36800 kr
55-64 35300 kr 36400 kr
Snitt 91% 34600 kr 35900 kr
* Empty columns indicate that the statistical data was insufficient to allow for a statistically significant conclusion.
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession Arc welder has the SSYK code 7212, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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