Image that illustrates CNC drill, metal

CNC drill, metal

35 200 kr

Machine setters and machine operators, metal work

31 400 - 36 100 kr / month

Women earn 96% of what men do.

Industriell tillverkning

What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression CNC drill, metal

Average salary 35 200 kr
Males 35 400 kr
Females 34 100 kr

What does a CNC operator in the metal industry do? – Tasks and work environment

A CNC operator in metal works with programming, setting up, and monitoring computer-controlled machines to drill precise holes in metal components. The tasks often include interpreting drawings, selecting the right tools, checking machine settings, and ensuring that production meets quality standards. The work is usually performed in a workshop environment where precision and accuracy are crucial. The CNC operator often collaborates with other operators and technicians in an environment characterized by machine noise, but also high safety and order requirements.

Salary development over time

The salary for a CNC operator in metal has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,000 SEK per month, rising to 34 000 SEK in 2023 and further to 35 200 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to a total increase of approximately 6.7% over the period. The positive trend can partly be explained by high demand for skilled labor in the industry and generally higher salary growth for technical professions. However, there are signs that the pace of salary increases may slow down in the future as automation and technological development change the job market for CNC operators.

CNC operator in metal – comprehensive overview

  • Average salary: 35 200 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 31,400 SEK/month (female, private sector, pre-secondary education)
  • Highest salary: 36,100 SEK/month (male, various sectors, post-secondary education)
  • Hourly wage: 212 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
  • Gender pay gap: Women earn 96% of what men do (men 35 400 SEK, women 34 100 SEK)

Education and qualifications

To work as a CNC operator in metal, a high school education with a focus on industry, technology, or production engineering is usually required. Many employers prefer candidates who have completed specific courses in CNC technology and have practical experience in a workshop environment. Some positions may also require certifications or specialized training depending on the type of machines and production.

  • High school education: Industrial technology program, 3 years
  • Vocational courses: CNC technology and machine processing
  • Certifications: For example, CNC operator certification
  • Internship: Work-based learning during education
  • Prerequisites: Basic mathematics and technical interest

Working as a CNC operator often means being part of a high-tech production chain where small details can have a big impact on the final result. Many companies now invest in internal skills development and offer opportunities for further education in automation and programming, making the profession especially exciting for those who want to develop technically.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for CNC operators in the metal industry include collective pension schemes, wellness allowances, opportunities for further training, and access to work clothing and protective equipment. Some employers also offer bonus systems, subsidized lunches, or reduced working hours depending on production needs.

Competition and challenges

Although job opportunities for CNC operators are currently considered good, forecasts indicate that demand may decrease over five years. Technological advancements and increasing automation in the industry mean some tasks can be replaced by robots and advanced control systems. This requires continuous skills development and increases competition for the most qualified positions. At the same time, there is currently a shortage of experienced CNC operators, which provides good opportunities for those who are educated and flexible. To meet these challenges, it is important to stay updated on new machine techniques and digital tools.

Tips for aspiring CNC operators in metal

To succeed as a CNC operator in metal, it is beneficial to combine technical interest with a careful and responsible attitude toward work. Being solution-oriented makes it easier to handle unexpected problems in production, while good teamwork skills facilitate communication with colleagues and management. It is also advantageous to be curious about new technology and take initiatives for further training, as machines and methods develop rapidly. A strong work ethic and the ability to work structured contribute to maintaining quality in production. Lastly, flexibility and willingness to work shifts are appreciated since this is common in the industry.

Key facts about CNC operator in metal

  • Education level: High school with vocational focus
  • Work environment: Workshop with machine noise and high safety standards
  • Job market: 1,437 job openings in the profession (2024)
  • Gender pay gap: Women earn 96% of men's salary
  • Future outlook: Demand expected to decrease over 5 years

Career pathways and future prospects

After a few years of experience, a CNC operator in metal can advance to roles such as machine setter, production technician, or supervisor within the industry. Some choose to further their education in automation, CAD/CAM programming, or quality control to broaden their career opportunities. The forecast from the Employment Service indicates a high demand for the profession nationally today, but the need may decrease over time due to technological development and automation. For those willing to continue learning and adapt to new technologies, the future remains promising, especially within companies investing in digitalization and smart production.

Frequently asked questions about CNC operators in metal

  • What is the average salary of a CNC operator in metal?
    - A CNC operator in metal has an average salary of 35 200 SEK per month.
  • How do salary differences between men and women look?
    - Men earn an average of 35 400 SEK and women 34 100 SEK per month, which means women earn 96% of men's salary.
  • What education is required to become a CNC operator?
    - A high school education with a focus on industry or technology is most common, often supplemented with courses in CNC technology.
  • Are there many job openings for CNC operators?
    - Yes, there are 1437 job openings in the profession of machine setters and machine operators in metalwork (2024).
  • What are the future prospects for CNC operators?
    - Opportunities are good today, but demand is expected to decrease over five years due to automation and technological development.
  • What is the hourly wage for a CNC operator in metal?
    - The average hourly wage is 212 SEK.
  • What are the highest and lowest salaries within the profession?
    - The highest salary is 36,100 SEK (male, post-secondary education), and the lowest is 31,400 SEK (female, pre-secondary education).

Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a CNC drill, metal is 36100 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Multiple sectors with a post-secondary education, less than 3 years. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 34500 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a CNC drill, metal is 31400 kr. This salary belongs to a woman also working in the Privately employed officials. The lowest salary for a man in this profession is 31800 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
18-24 100% 30700 kr 32600 kr
25-34 98% 33400 kr 35300 kr
35-44 95% 33500 kr 35200 kr
45-54 97% 34300 kr 35900 kr
55-64 94% 34300 kr 35800 kr
65-68 33300 kr 34400 kr
Snitt 96% 33500 kr 35200 kr
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession CNC drill, metal has the SSYK code 7223, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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