Concrete product workers

What does a Betongvaruarbetare do? – tasks and work environment

A Betongvaruarbetare primarily works with the production, processing, and handling of concrete products, such as pipes, slabs, and prefabricated building components. Tasks may include mixing concrete, formwork, reinforcement, casting, and supervising machinery in an industrial setting. The work is often performed in factories or production facilities where the environment is characterized by noise, heavy lifts, and demands for precision. Safety routines are crucial as both machinery and materials can pose potential risks. Betongvaruarbetare often collaborate in teams with other operators and technicians to ensure high-quality production that meets deadlines.

Salary development over time

The salary development for Betongvaruarbetare has been relatively stable but shows a clear upward trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,800 SEK, which increased to 35 500 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has risen further to 36 000 SEK, representing a total increase of about 6.2% over three years. This salary trend reflects a continued demand for skilled workers in the concrete industry, where increased construction and infrastructure projects contribute to wage pressure. Factors such as automation and the need for specialized skills in machinery handling positively influence salary levels. Despite some gender differences in pay, the trend indicates that the gap is slowly narrowing, possibly due to increased awareness of equality issues within the industry.

Betongvaruarbetare salary – full overview

• Average salary: 36 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,100 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 36,600 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 216 SEK
• Women earn: 34,100 SEK/month (94% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 36 200 SEK/month

Education and qualifications

To work as a Betongvaruarbetare, a high school education in construction and civil engineering or equivalent technical training is usually required. Practical experience from industrial production is highly valued, and many employers offer internal training or induction programs for new employees. Certifications in safety and machinery operation can be advantageous, especially for working with advanced equipment.

• High school education: Construction and civil engineering program, approx. 3 years
• Certifications: Working at heights, forklift and machinery licenses
• Internship: Usually included as part of training or trainee periods
• Prerequisites: Good physical health, proficiency in Swedish (spoken and written)
• Tips: Interest in technology and precision are valuable qualities

Common benefits and compensations

Betongvaruarbetare are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, insurance, and wellness contributions. Shift work may provide additional allowances, and work clothes and protective equipment are usually supplied by the employer. Some workplaces also offer subsidized lunches or employee discounts on certain products and services.

Competition and challenges

The competition for Betongvaruarbetare positions varies depending on region and economic climate. Since the profession requires both physical strength and technical understanding, it can be challenging to find workers with the right combination of qualities, especially in areas with high demand for construction projects. Automation within the industry means that tasks are changing and require higher machine skills and flexibility. The work environment can be strenuous with heavy lifts, noise, and shift work, which may affect well-being and health. Those who can quickly learn new machinery and adapt to changing workflows have a clear advantage in the job market.

Tips for those wanting to become a Betongvaruarbetare

To succeed as a Betongvaruarbetare, it’s good to combine accuracy with a strong focus on safety, as tasks are often heavy and require attention to detail. Technical interest makes it easier to quickly grasp new machines and production methods, which is an advantage in a rapidly changing industry. Physical endurance is important since the work can be demanding both in terms of lifting and working postures. Teamwork skills facilitate daily routines, as production usually occurs in teams, and good communication is crucial for an efficient workflow. Initiative and willingness to further educate oneself increase opportunities for advancement or specialization within the profession. Flexibility is also a strength, especially when tasks vary between different projects and seasons. Finally, punctuality and responsibility are valued, as production depends on all tasks being performed according to plan.

Key facts about Betongvaruarbetare

• Education level: High school education (3 years)
• Work environment: Industrial production, often shift work
• Demand: 1,437 job openings in the profession
• Gender distribution: Women earn 94% of men's salary
• Occupational group: Machine operators, cement, stone, and concrete products

Career paths and future outlook

After a few years of experience, a Betongvaruarbetare can progress to roles such as production technician, supervisor, or specialized machine operator. There are also opportunities to develop in quality control or maintenance of production equipment. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, it is difficult to make an exact assessment of the future prospects for this profession due to limited data, but the number of job openings indicates continued demand. The industry is influenced by the construction cycle and investments in infrastructure, which can create good opportunities for those with the right skills and willingness to further educate themselves. Automation drives an increased need for technically skilled workers, giving those with experience in machinery handling or maintenance particularly good chances.

Frequently asked questions about Betongvaruarbetare

• What does a Betongvaruarbetare earn?
  - The average salary is 36 000 SEK per month, varying between 34,100 SEK and 36,600 SEK depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn on average 94% of what men do within this profession.
• What education is required to become a Betongvaruarbetare?
  - High school education in construction and civil engineering is most common, often supplemented with practical training and certifications.
• What is the work environment like?
  - Work mainly takes place in industrial environments with noise, heavy lifting, and shift work, where safety routines are important.
• What are the future prospects?
  - There are 1,437 job openings in the profession, but no exact forecast due to limited data.
• What career paths are available?
  - Opportunities exist to advance to supervisor, production technician, or specialize in machinery maintenance and quality control.