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What does an embroidery machine operator do in the textile industry? – Tasks and work environment

An embroidery machine operator in the textile industry mainly programs, monitors, and maintains embroidery machines that decorate textiles with patterns, logos, or motifs. The tasks include preparing materials, selecting threads and colors, and quality control of the finished products. Precision in machine settings is often necessary to ensure the embroidery is exactly as ordered. The work is performed in production environments that can vary from small ateliers to large textile factories, involving both monotonous and more creative tasks. The work environment is characterized by machine noise and sometimes repetitive movements, but modern workplaces focus on ergonomics and safety to reduce strain injuries.

Salary development over time

Salaries for embroidery machine operators with a focus on automation have shown a relatively stable but positive development over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 27,700 SEK per month. In 2023, the salary increased to 29 600 SEK, which is about a 7% increase. In 2024, the average salary is expected to be 30 400 SEK, a further rise of approximately 2.7%. This trend reflects a certain demand for skilled workers in the textile industry, where technical competence and machine experience are increasingly valued. The development indicates that despite its niche, the profession is affected by overall industry wage trends and increasing requirements for specialization and technical skills.

Embroidery machine operator salary in the textile industry – full overview

• Average salary: 30 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 29,400 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 32,200 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 183 SEK
• Women earn: 29 700 SEK/month (95% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 31 200 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Highest wages are found within regional sectors

Education and qualifications

To work as an embroidery machine operator in automation, a high school education with a focus on textiles and fashion or equivalent practical skills is usually required. Many employers seek experience with industrial embroidery machines and technical knowledge. Additional courses in textile technology, machine handling, or CAD pattern creation can be advantageous. Practical experience, such as internships, is often essential for employment in the field.

• High school education: Textile and fashion, 3 years
• Internships: Common within training or as a trainee
• Courses: Textile technology, machine handling, CAD embroidery
• Prerequisites: Interest in textiles, precision, and technical understanding
• Certificates: Often not mandatory but advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Embroidery machine operators with a focus on automation are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pensions, insurance, and extra vacation days. Many workplaces also provide wellness allowances, work clothing, and sometimes subsidized meals. Shift work may be required and compensated with overtime premiums. Further training and skill development may also be included as part of the employment.

Competition and challenges

The competition within the profession of embroidery machine operator is moderate but can vary depending on region and economic conditions. Limited data makes it difficult to give an exact forecast for future recruitment needs, but digitalization and automation increase the requirements for technical knowledge. Challenges also include staying updated on new machines and software, as well as managing high workloads during larger orders. Physically demanding tasks and monotonous work can also impact the work environment. Despite this, opportunities exist for those who are flexible and willing to develop their skills.

Tips for those who want to become embroidery machine operators in the textile industry

To succeed as an embroidery machine operator, it is helpful to have an eye for detail and good problem-solving skills, as machines require careful monitoring and adjustments. Endurance and patience are crucial, especially during repetitive tasks or when fixing technical issues. A willingness to learn new programs and machines provides a competitive advantage, as technology develops rapidly. Teamwork skills are highly valued since the work often takes place in teams, and good communication facilitates larger productions. For those with a creative streak, suggesting new patterns or process improvements can sometimes be rewarded by the employer. Flexibility and initiative are appreciated, especially during shift work or varying orders. Finally, a sense of responsibility is important to deliver high quality and follow safety routines.

Key facts about embroidery machine operators

• Education level: High school diploma, textiles and fashion (3 years)
• Work environment: Industrial production, often in teams
• Work form: Shift work may occur
• Demand: 1437 job openings within the profession
• Gender distribution: Women earn 95% of men's salary

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an embroidery machine operator with a focus on automation, it is common to take on greater responsibilities within production, such as supervisor, quality manager, or machine technician. Some choose to further their education in textile technology or production engineering to advance into specialist roles or production planners. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, no specific assessment is made for this profession due to limited data, but the overall demand for machine operators in the textile and leather industries remains stable, reflected by the 1437 available jobs in the field. Digitalization and automation might impact the need for manual labor over time, but technical knowledge and further training offer good opportunities for continued employment and development.

Frequently asked questions about embroidery machine operators

• What does an embroidery machine operator earn?
  - The average salary is 30 400 SEK per month, with variations depending on gender and sector.
• What education is required to become an embroidery machine operator?
  - A high school diploma in textiles and fashion is most common, often supplemented with internships.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 95% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What is the work environment like for an embroidery machine operator?
  - The work takes place in production environments with machines, often in teams and sometimes in shifts.
• What career opportunities are available after some years?
  - Opportunities include becoming a supervisor, quality manager, or further training as a specialist.
• How high is the demand for embroidery machine operators?
  - There are 1437 job openings in the profession according to current statistics.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Collective agreements, occupational pensions, wellness allowances, and overtime premiums are common benefits.