Beredningsingenjör, gruva/metallurgi

What does a processing engineer in mining and metallurgy do? – Tasks and work environment

A processing engineer in mining and metallurgy is responsible for developing, optimizing, and monitoring processes where ore and minerals are transformed into usable metals and materials. Tasks often include production planning, quality assurance, monitoring chemical and physical processes, and implementing technical innovations to improve efficiency and environmental performance. The work typically occurs close to production, combining office work with presence at facilities, laboratories, or mine sites. Safety, precision, and the ability to quickly solve technical problems are central aspects of daily work.

Salary development over time

The salary for a processing engineer in mining/metallurgy has shown a clear positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 42,700 SEK, increasing to 44 400 SEK in 2023—a rise of approximately 4%. In 2024, the salary has further increased to 47 400 SEK, representing an increase of about 6.7% since 2022. This development reflects a growing demand for expertise in the mining and metallurgy sectors, where technical skills and experience are highly valued. The industry’s need for more efficient and sustainable processes also drives up salary levels, especially for engineers with specialized knowledge in process optimization and environmental technology.

Processing engineer in mining/metallurgy salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 47 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 36,900 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 48,500 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 285 SEK
• Women’s average salary: 44 900 SEK/month (93% of men’s salary)
• Men’s average salary: 48,500 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a processing engineer in mining and metallurgy, a university or master’s degree in chemical engineering, materials engineering, or equivalent is generally required. The education combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, and experience from internships or trainee programs in industry is often sought after. Additional courses and specializations in environmental technology or process control can be advantageous and increase employability.

• Formal degree: University or master’s degree (3–5 years)
• Internships: Highly recommended through trainee programs or summer jobs
• Courses/certifications: Process optimization, environmental technology, safety
• Prerequisites: Science-based high school education
• Tips for choosing: Focus on process or materials engineering for the best match

Common benefits and compensations

Employees working as processing engineers in the mining and metallurgy industry are often offered benefits such as extra vacation, wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and sometimes bonus programs linked to production results. Occupational pensions, insurances, and subsidized lunches are also common, along with opportunities for professional development and further training within the company.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a processing engineer in the mining and metallurgy sector can vary depending on economic conditions and location. Technological development and automation increase demands for specialist skills and the ability to adapt quickly to new working methods. An ongoing challenge is staying updated on environmental legislation and sustainability requirements, which are becoming increasingly important for the industry’s future. Additionally, working conditions in production-related roles can be demanding, especially in shift work or field operations.

Tips for aspiring processing engineers in mining/metallurgy

To succeed as a processing engineer in mining and metallurgy, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a structured approach and a genuine interest in technology. Precision helps in process monitoring and quality control, while problem-solving skills facilitate handling unexpected operational disruptions. It is recommended to seek internships or summer jobs during education to gain experience and build networks, and to stay informed about technological innovations and environmental regulations. Flexibility and teamwork are important since the work often involves cross-functional teams, and an interest in working in an international environment can open more career opportunities. Good communication skills are also essential for reporting and collaboration with colleagues and external partners.

Key facts about processing engineers in mining and metallurgy

• Education level: University or master’s degree, 3–5 years
• Work environment: Combination of office, laboratory, and industrial settings
• Typical work schedule: Full-time, often daytime but sometimes shifts
• Demand: About 564 available jobs in the profession
• Special skills: Process optimization, environmental technology, safety

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years as a processing engineer in mining/metallurgy, there are good opportunities for advancement to roles such as process engineer, project manager, production manager, or specialist in environmental and sustainability issues. Some choose to pursue further education or become consultants in industry-specific technical fields. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s job forecasts, there is no specific assessment for this role due to limited data, but the profession reports 564 available jobs, indicating continued demand for skills. The industry’s transition towards sustainability and digitalization is expected to create new opportunities for engineers with the right profile and further education.

Frequently asked questions about processing engineers in mining/metallurgy

• What is the salary of a processing engineer in mining/metallurgy?
  - A processing engineer in mining/metallurgy has an average salary of 47 400 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn on average 44 900 SEK per month (93% of men’s salary), while men earn 48,500 SEK.
• What education is required to become a processing engineer in mining and metallurgy?
  - A university or master’s degree in chemical engineering, materials engineering, or equivalent is usually required.
• What does the job market look like for processing engineers?
  - There are 564 available jobs in the profession, indicating strong demand.
• What are the typical tasks of a processing engineer?
  - Tasks include process development, quality control, production technology, and implementation of new technical solutions.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, extra vacation, and professional development.
• How has the salary developed in the profession?
  - Salaries increased from 42,700 SEK in 2022 to 47 400 SEK in 2024, a rise of over 6%.