Processing engineer, machine

What does a manufacturing engineer in mechanical engineering do? – Tasks and work environment

Manufacturing engineers in mechanical engineering are responsible for planning, developing, and optimizing processes for manufacturing machine parts and components. Their tasks often include analyzing technical drawings, developing work instructions, selecting materials and production methods, and ensuring that production occurs resource-efficiently and with quality assurance. The role also involves collaborating with designers, production staff, and purchasers to solve technical problems and improve production flows. The work environment is typically based in industrial companies or workshops, involving both office work and presence on the production floor.

Salary development over time

The salary for manufacturing engineers in mechanical engineering has shown steady and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 41,500 SEK per month, increasing to 43 700 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 45 300 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 9% over the period. This growth is partly explained by increased demand for technical expertise within Swedish industry, and employers need to offer competitive salaries to attract and retain qualified personnel. Salary increases also reflect technological development and the rising requirements for specialized education and experience in the profession.

Manufacturing engineer in mechanical engineering salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 45 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 37,000 SEK (female, public sector, 3-year high school education)
• Highest salary: 68,000 SEK (female, municipal sector, research degree)
• Hourly wage: 272 SEK (based on 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Men 45 600 SEK, women 43 200 SEK (women earn 95% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data varies, but metropolitan regions tend to have slightly higher salary levels

Education and qualifications

To work as a manufacturing engineer in mechanical engineering, a university or master's degree in mechanical engineering or production engineering is usually required. Many employers also view supplementary education in production, quality assurance, or project management positively. Early practical experience within industry, such as through internships or trainee programs, is often advantageous and can facilitate entry into the profession.

• Formal degree: Bachelor or master's in engineering (3–5 years, mechanical or production engineering)
• Certifications: Courses in quality, Lean production, project management
• Internships: Industrial internships or trainee programs recommended
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies, including mathematics, physics, and technology
• Self-studies: Online courses in CAD, production technology, and work preparation can be valuable

Common benefits and compensation

Manufacturing engineers in mechanical engineering are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, occupational pension, flexible working hours, and the possibility of remote work. Further training, subsidized lunches, and sometimes bonus programs linked to company performance are also common.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as manufacturing engineers in mechanical engineering varies depending on region and industry. In metropolitan and tech-intensive regions, competition may be higher, while demand for expertise is often greater in industrial cities and areas with many manufacturing companies. Challenges in the profession include rapid technological shifts, continuous skill development requirements, and the ability to collaborate with various professional roles. Staying updated on new materials, production systems, and digital tools is crucial to remain competitive in the job market.

Tips for aspiring manufacturing engineers in mechanical engineering

To succeed as a manufacturing engineer in mechanical engineering, it is helpful to be analytical and solution-oriented, as the profession often involves quickly identifying and addressing production problems. A structured approach facilitates managing complex processes and many details simultaneously, ensuring both efficiency and quality. Communication skills are important for collaborating with technicians and managers across different parts of the organization. Curiosity and a desire to learn new things help you keep pace with technological development and increase your attractiveness in the job market. Initiative and independence are valued, especially when implementing new work methods or technologies. Finally, patience and precision are essential when working on process improvements and ensuring optimal production flows.

Key facts about manufacturing engineers in mechanical engineering

• Education level: Bachelor or master's degree (3–5 years)
• Work environment: Industrial companies and workshops, combining office and production work
• Employment type: Full- or part-time employment, often daytime
• Demand: 564 job openings within the profession in spring 2024
• Special skills: Production technology, CAD, quality assurance

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a manufacturing engineer in mechanical engineering can advance to roles such as production manager, process developer, or project manager within industry. It is also common to move into specialist roles within quality or Lean production. The Swedish Employment Service's forecasts for engineers and technicians in mechanical engineering show good future prospects, although specific statistical data for this role is limited. The industry is influenced by technological development and automation, which is expected to keep demand for updated skills high. Opportunities for further education and specialization are good, creating favorable conditions for long-term career development within Swedish industry.

Frequently asked questions about manufacturing engineers in mechanical engineering

• What does a manufacturing engineer, machinery, earn?
  - The average salary is 45 300 SEK per month, but it varies depending on experience, education, and employer.
• What education is required to become a manufacturing engineer in mechanical engineering?
  - Usually a university or master's degree in mechanical or production engineering.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 43 200 SEK while men earn 45 600 SEK, meaning women earn approximately 95% of men's salaries.
• What is the job market like for manufacturing engineers in mechanical engineering?
  - There is strong demand, with 564 job openings in spring 2024.
• What are the most common tasks?
  - Production planning, work preparation, process optimization, and technical problem-solving.
• What opportunities for further education are available?
  - Opportunities include quality, Lean production, project management, and specialization in various technical fields.
• What are the career paths?
  - With experience, you can advance to production manager, process developer, or project manager.