Car parts specialist

What does a Car Parts Specialist do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A car parts specialist is responsible for identifying, ordering, and managing spare parts and accessories for cars and other motor vehicles. The work involves daily contact with both customers and workshop personnel to ensure that the right parts are available at the right time. Common tasks include inventory management, advising on component choices, and administrative work related to orders and invoicing. Car parts specialists often work in environments such as auto repair shops, parts stores, or wholesale companies and need a good understanding of automotive technology and industry developments.

Salary Development Over Time

Over the past three years, the salary for car parts specialists has shown stable and positive growth. In 2022, the average salary was 31,900 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 33 200 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the salary continued to rise to 34 400 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 7.8% over the period. This development reflects the continued high demand for technical expertise in vehicle management and spare parts, as well as increased focus on technology within the industry. Salary increases are also influenced by higher requirements for technical understanding and inventory logistics, while competition for qualified personnel helps push salaries upward. Despite a relatively small gender pay gap, women’s salaries are still slightly below men’s, which is a challenge the industry needs to address.

Car Parts Specialist Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 34 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,100 SEK (female, public sector, 3-year high school education)
• Highest salary: 36,300 SEK (male, regional sector, up to 2-year high school education)
• Hourly wage: 207 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Men earn 34 500 SEK, women 32 500 SEK (women earn 94% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Some variation exists, with higher salaries in metropolitan regions and within regional sectors

Education and Qualifications

The path to becoming a car parts specialist typically involves a high school education within the automotive and transportation program, often supplemented with specialized courses in spare parts management and logistics. Some employers also require experience from the automotive industry or previous work in inventory and customer service. Internships and trainee positions are common to gain necessary work experience and insight into industry-specific systems.

• High school education: Automotive and transportation program (3 years)
• Specialized courses: Spare parts management, inventory logistics, customer service
• Internships/Trainee: Common during or after high school
• Certifications: Meritorious in inventory management and vehicle technology
• Prerequisites: Interest in technology and service orientation

Common Benefits and Compensation

In addition to the base salary, car parts specialists are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, employee discounts on car parts and accessories, and opportunities for further training in technology and customer service. Some employers may also offer bonus systems linked to sales or inventory management, as well as pension contributions and insurance as standard.

Competition and Challenges

The profession of a car parts specialist is characterized by a paradoxical labor market, with both recruitment difficulties and relatively high unemployment within the group. There are many available jobs, but employers often seek candidates with specific experience and technical skills. Digitalization and increased demands for inventory optimization place high requirements on adaptability and continuous learning. Rapid changes in the automotive industry also mean that knowledge can quickly become outdated, challenging long-term skills development. Regional differences in demand and salary levels mean competition can be tougher in certain parts of the country.

Tips for Aspiring Car Parts Specialists

To succeed as a car parts specialist, it is beneficial to have a genuine interest in technology and a desire to continually learn about the automotive industry. Precision is crucial, especially when handling orders and spare parts, as small mistakes can have significant consequences in the workshop environment. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with both customers and colleagues, and a service-oriented attitude is advantageous for building long-term customer relationships. Flexibility and problem-solving skills help manage rapid changes and unexpected challenges in daily work. Being organized and detail-oriented makes it easier to keep track of inventory and deliveries, which is important for both efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Key Facts about Car Parts Specialist

• Education level: High school education (automotive and transportation program, 3 years)
• Work environment: Workshop, warehouse, or retail environment with customer contact
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment, especially in larger cities
• Special skills: Spare parts management, inventory logistics, customer service
• Typical employment: Full-time, daytime; some part-time and hourly positions

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years in the profession, a car parts specialist can advance to roles such as warehouse manager, purchasing manager, or technical advisor within larger automotive companies. Opportunities also exist to specialize in specific car brands or to work in training new employees. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, job prospects are strong, and demand for car parts specialists and related roles is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Despite many available jobs, competition is fierce for the most attractive positions, especially in metropolitan regions. Continuously developing skills and adapting to technological shifts in the industry provide the best chances for a long and rewarding career.

Frequently Asked Questions about Car Parts Specialist

• What is the average salary of a Car Parts Specialist?
  - A car parts specialist has an average salary of 34 400 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a car parts specialist?
  - High school education within the automotive and transportation program is most common, often supplemented with specialized courses and internships.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn on average 34 500 SEK and women 32 500 SEK, which means women earn 94% of men's salaries.
• What is the job market like for car parts specialists?
  - Opportunities for employment are plentiful, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What are common tasks for a car parts specialist?
  - Identifying, ordering, and managing spare parts and advising customers and workshop staff.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries are generally higher in metropolitan regions and within regional sectors compared to the public sector.
• What career opportunities are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Advancement to roles such as warehouse manager, purchasing manager, or technical advisor is possible.