Lead workers

What does a leadworks worker do? – Tasks and work environment

A leadworks worker mainly works within the metal industry, with a particular focus on process monitoring and processing of lead and lead alloys. Tasks include controlling and supervising melting and casting processes, checking the quality of materials, and performing maintenance on machines and equipment. The environment is often industrial and can involve exposure to high temperatures, noise, and sometimes hazardous substances, requiring strict adherence to safety regulations and the use of protective gear. The work may be shift-based and demands both technical knowledge and precision to maintain safety and production quality.

Salary development over time

Salaries for leadworks workers have shown stable and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,400 SEK per month, which increased to 37 700 SEK in 2023 and further to 39 700 SEK in 2024. This represents a total salary increase of about 9 percent over the period, with a particularly strong rise in the most recent year. This growth can be linked to increased demand for process supervisors in metal production and general wage adjustments in the industry sector. At the same time, skill requirements have increased, which may also contribute to the positive salary development. Despite limited information on regional variations, the trend indicates that the profession remains competitively salaried.

Leadworks Worker salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 39 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,000 SEK/month (female)
• Highest salary: 40,200 SEK/month (male, regional sector)
• Hourly wage: 239 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 95% of men's salary
• Regional differences: Data on variations is lacking, but the highest salaries are found within regional sectors

Education and qualifications

To work as a leadworks worker, a high school education with a focus on industry, technology, or process operation is usually required. Practical experience from the metal industry is often advantageous, and some employers offer internal training and certifications for specific machines or processes. Knowledge of work environment and safety is particularly important, as the job involves handling lead and other potentially hazardous materials.

• Formal education: High school with industrial or technical programs (3 years)
• Certifications: Safety and health courses, sometimes requiring hot work certificates
• Internship: Internships within metal or process industries are strongly recommended
• Prerequisites: Basic technical and math skills
• Tips: Choose education focusing on process and mechanical engineering for better employment opportunities

Common benefits and compensations

Leadworks workers are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, extra vacation days, wellness contributions, and compensation for unsociable hours. Some workplaces also provide work clothing, protective gear, and opportunities for skills development through internal training. Special allowances may be added for work during evenings, nights, or weekends.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as a leadworks worker is moderate but varies by region and economic climate. Since the profession requires specialized knowledge and strict safety considerations, relevant education and experience are advantageous. The availability of jobs depends on demand within the metal industry and changes in production technology. Challenges include managing physically demanding tasks, maintaining healthy working conditions, and adapting to new environmental and safety regulations. Additionally, automation and technological development may influence job content and future staffing needs.

Tips for those who want to become a leadworks worker

To succeed as a leadworks worker, it is good to have a strong sense of responsibility and precision, as safety must always be prioritized. Flexibility and adaptability are helpful, as production processes and tasks can change quickly. Good teamwork skills are important, as work is often done in teams where clear communication affects both efficiency and safety. An interest in technology and a willingness to learn new machines and processes make it easier to thrive and develop in the role. Showing initiative and being solution-oriented is appreciated by employers, especially when handling unexpected production stops or quality issues. Basic physical endurance is also beneficial, as the work can sometimes be heavy and monotonous. Finally, a proactive safety mindset and engagement in work environment issues provide a clear advantage in employment.

Key facts about Leadworks Workers

• Education level: High school, industrial or technical programs
• Work environment: Industrial, often noisy and hot
• Work form: Shift work is common
• Demand: 481 job openings within the profession
• Special skills: Process monitoring and safety

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a leadworks worker, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as shift supervisor, process manager, or technical specialist within metal production. With additional education, it is also possible to move into supervisory or qualified roles within occupational health and safety. The latest forecast from the Employment Service indicates that there is not enough data for an exact assessment of future prospects for leadworks workers, but the entire process monitoring profession within metal production has a stable number of job openings. Technological development and increased environmental awareness may influence the profession's content and requirements over time, but the need for specialized personnel is expected to remain.

Common questions about Leadworks Workers

• What does a Leadworks Worker earn?
  - The average salary is 39 700 SEK per month, with variation between 38,000 and 40,200 SEK depending on experience and sector.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn approximately 95% of what men do in the profession.
• What education is required to become a Leadworks Worker?
  - High school education in industry or technology is most common, preferably with supplementary safety and process courses.
• What is the work environment like?
  - Work takes place in an industrial environment with elements of noise, heat, and the need for protective equipment, often in shifts.
• What are the most common job tasks?
  - Monitoring processes, quality control, machine maintenance, and safety work.
• What are the future prospects?
  - Forecasts are lacking due to limited data, but currently there are 481 job openings within the profession.
• Are there opportunities for further education?
  - Yes, internal training and specialized courses in process and mechanical engineering are common.