Concrete reinforcement

What does a Betongarmerare do? – Tasks and work environment

A Betongarmerare primarily works with preparing, assembling, and installing reinforcement bars and steel mesh that strengthen concrete structures in construction and civil engineering projects. Daily tasks include following drawings, measuring and cutting reinforcement steel, and tying or welding the reinforcement according to safety regulations. The work is often outdoors and involves physical exertion, heavy lifting, and working at heights or in confined spaces. Betongarmerare collaborate closely with other trades on the construction site and need a good understanding of the construction process and safety routines.

Salary development over time

The salary for Betongarmerare has shown a clear upward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 35,700 SEK per month, rising the following year to 36 500 SEK and reaching 38 400 SEK in 2024. This represents an increase of approximately 7.6% over the three-year period, with the largest increase occurring between 2023 and 2024. Behind this development are sustained high demand for skilled Betongarmerare and a general wage increase within the construction sector. The shortage of qualified workers and large construction projects nationwide have also contributed to rising wages. Wages have also been influenced by collective bargaining negotiations and adjustments for inflation, creating a stable but positive wage development for the profession.

Betongarmerare salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 38 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,200 SEK/month (female)
• Highest salary: 39,600 SEK/month (male, regional sector, highest 2-year high school education)
• Hourly wage (average): 231 SEK
• Women earn: 34,200 SEK/month (89% of men’s salary)
• Men earn: 38 500 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Highest wages are found in the regional sector

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a Betongarmerare usually goes through the construction and civil engineering program at high school, with a focus on concrete work. Practical experience from the construction industry is highly valuable, and many employers prefer new employees to have completed apprenticeships or internships. Some supplement with certifications in welding or safety. To thrive and develop in the profession, both theoretical knowledge and good physical condition are required.

• High school vocational education: Construction and civil engineering program, specializing in concrete work (3 years)
• Apprenticeship: Practice/trainee at a construction site through company apprenticeship or adult education
• Certifications: Examples include welding or safety certificates
• Prerequisites: Often B driver's license and good physical fitness
• Additional courses: Work environment, machinery handling, reading drawings

Common benefits and compensations

In the Betongarmerare profession, collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, insurance, and wellness grants are common. Many employers also provide work clothing, tools, and sometimes extra compensation for inconvenient working hours or work in difficult weather conditions. Other common benefits include opportunities for further training and reimbursement for travel and per diems when working away from home.

Competition and challenges

The job market for Betongarmerare is characterized by high demand and a pronounced shortage of qualified personnel, which offers good prospects for short- and long-term employment. The physical work environment and safety requirements demand endurance and precision. Competition for the most attractive positions can be fierce, especially in regions with large infrastructure projects. Technological advances and new working methods also require continuous skills development to stay competitive. For women, salary gaps and representation can be additional challenges in this male-dominated profession.

Tips for those wanting to become Betongarmerare

To succeed as a Betongarmerare, it’s good to combine practical skills with accuracy and strong teamwork abilities. Being resilient and physically fit makes daily work easier, especially since it often involves heavy lifting and outdoor work in varying weather. A positive attitude towards safety routines and willingness to learn new techniques are crucial for career development and personal safety. Flexibility and adaptability are strengths, as tasks can vary between projects. Showing responsibility and initiative can open doors to more advanced roles or leadership positions. Good communication skills aid collaboration with colleagues and other trades. Finally, precision is vital, as the quality of work directly impacts the durability of the entire construction project.

Key facts about Betongarmerare

• Educational level: High school vocational training, often with practical experience
• Work environment: Construction sites, both indoors and outdoors
• Demand: High, with a shortage of qualified workers
• Typical employment: Full-time, often project-based
• Special skills: Reinforcement techniques, reading drawings, safety routines

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, there are opportunities to advance to more specialized roles such as supervisor, site manager, or trainer within the construction and civil engineering sector. Some choose to further their education in welding, machinery handling, or project management. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast for the Betongarmerare profession, the prospects for employment nationwide remain strong, with unchanged demand over the next five years. The recruitment situation is characterized by a shortage, providing good future prospects for new and experienced Betongarmerare. Currently, there are 379 job openings in the field, highlighting the high demand.

Frequently asked questions about Betongarmerare

• What does a Betongarmerare earn?
  - A Betongarmerare has an average salary of 38 400 SEK per month, but the salary varies depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• How does one become a Betongarmerare?
  - The most common route is through the construction and civil engineering program at high school with an internship, or alternatively adult education and an apprenticeship.
• Are there job opportunities for Betongarmerare?
  - Yes, the job market is very good with 379 available positions and long-term high demand.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for Betongarmerare?
  - The highest salary is 39,600 SEK and the lowest 34,200 SEK per month, depending on gender and sector.
• What benefits are common?
  - Collective agreements, occupational pension, insurance, wellness grants, and sometimes extra compensation for inconvenient working hours are common benefits.
• How do gender differences in salary look?
  - Women earn approximately 89% of men's salaries within the profession, which corresponds to 34,200 SEK compared to men's 38 500.