Car fitter

What does a car dismantler do? – Tasks and work environment

A car dismantler works with disassembling cars and other vehicles in a safe and environmentally friendly manner. Tasks include dismantling various parts of the vehicle, sorting recyclable materials, and identifying components that can be sold as spare parts. The work is often carried out at car scrapyards or recycling facilities, where safety regulations and environmental guidelines are central to daily operations. Car dismantlers handle both manual tools and machinery, requiring good physical ability and precision to avoid injuries and improper handling of hazardous waste.

Salary development over time

The salary for car dismantlers has shown steady and positive growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,100 SEK per month, increasing to 32 100 SEK in 2023 and further to 32 700 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 8.6% over three years, with the largest rise between 2022 and 2023. This trend reflects an increased demand for skills in recycling and environmental sectors, where technological development and stricter environmental standards have contributed to raising the profession's status and salary levels. At the same time, the salary increase is slightly higher than the overall inflation rate during this period, indicating that the market values experience and specialized knowledge in car dismantling.

Car dismantler salary – full overview

• Average salary: 32 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,700 SEK/month (female, private sector, pre-high school education < 9 years)
• Highest salary: 35,000 SEK/month (female, public sector, post-secondary education ≥ 3 years)
• Hourly wage (average): 196 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 97% of what men do (men: 32 800 SEK, women: 31 900 SEK)
• Regional differences: No specific regional salary data available

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a car dismantler often involves practical experience within the automotive industry, but relevant education includes vehicle technology programs at high school. Many employers require technical knowledge, environmental awareness, and certain certifications for handling hazardous waste. Internships and trainee positions are common as part of the introduction to the profession, and basic vehicle knowledge is a clear advantage when applying.

• High school education: Vehicle and transport program (3 years)
• Certifications: Environmental and safety training for handling hazardous waste
• Internships: Often part of education or employment
• Prerequisites: Basic vehicle knowledge and interest in technology
• Further education: Available in recycling and environmental technology at vocational colleges or courses

Common benefits and compensations

Benefits for car dismantlers often include work clothing, wellness allowances, and sometimes opportunities for further training in environmental and safety topics. Some employers also offer insurance, occupational pension schemes, and discounts on spare parts or tools. Shift work may occur, sometimes compensated with overtime pay or other bonuses.

Competition and challenges

The job market for car dismantlers offers good employment prospects, but the profession also demands high physical endurance and precision. One of the biggest challenges is handling hazardous materials safely and keeping up to date with new regulations and techniques in recycling. Recruitment situations are characterized by a paradox: there are both difficulties in recruiting and a high proportion of part-time workers or individuals leaving the profession. Competition can be tougher in larger cities where demand for spare parts is higher, while smaller towns may offer more varied tasks but fewer available positions.

Tips for those who want to become a car dismantler

To succeed as a car dismantler, it is good to be meticulous and detail-oriented, as each disassembly requires precision to avoid damage to parts and the environment. Technical interest is a big advantage, especially when it comes to identifying different components and understanding vehicle construction. Being solution-oriented helps when unexpected problems arise, and good physical condition is necessary to handle heavy lifts and sometimes monotonous tasks. Flexibility is also important since daily tasks can vary depending on which vehicles are being dismantled. Showing responsibility for the environment and safety is appreciated by employers and contributes to a safe workplace. Finally, teamwork skills are valuable, as the work often occurs in small teams where good communication is crucial.

Key facts about Car Dismantlers

• Education level: High school education (vehicle and transport program) most common
• Work environment: Physically demanding, often in workshop or recycling facility
• Typical employment: Full-time, but part-time positions also occur
• Demand: Great job opportunities, 123 available positions nationwide
• Special expertise: Knowledge of vehicle components and environmentally safe handling

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience as a car dismantler, opportunities exist to advance to roles such as supervisor, environmental coordinator, or specialized technician in recycling and disassembly. Some choose to further their education to become vehicle technicians or work in spare parts sales. According to the Swedish Employment Service forecasts, the outlook is good for waste management and recycling workers, where demand is expected to remain stable over the next five years. This means stable job prospects and an increasing importance of environmental awareness and technical skills. The profession is especially suitable for those interested in recycling, technology, and sustainability.

Frequently asked questions about Car Dismantlers

• What does a Car Dismantler earn?
  - The average salary is 32 700 SEK per month, with variations between 27,700 SEK and 35,000 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What education is required to become a car dismantler?
  - The vehicle and transport program in high school is most common, but internships and experience are also important.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn approximately 97% of what men do within the profession.
• What is the work environment like for a car dismantler?
  - The work environment is physically demanding, often in a workshop setting with focus on safety and environmental regulations.
• What does the future look like for car dismantlers?
  - Demand is expected to be stable over the next five years, with good employment opportunities.
• What benefits can a car dismantler receive?
  - Common benefits include work clothing, wellness allowances, insurance, and sometimes training opportunities.
• What is needed to succeed in the profession?
  - Attention to detail, technical interest, good physical condition, and responsibility are key qualities.