Collator driver, printing company

What does a collator operator do in the printing industry? – Tasks and work environment

A collator operator in the printing industry is responsible for monitoring and controlling machines that gather, sort, and bind printed sheets into finished products such as books, brochures, and newspapers. The tasks include loading materials into the machines, adjusting settings to ensure correct sorting and binding, and supervising the production flow to detect and fix any errors. Often, quality control of the final product and basic maintenance of machinery are also required. The work environment is typically industrial with a fast pace, where both independent work and teamwork are common.

Salary development over time

The salary for collator operators in the printing industry has shown varied development over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,100 SEK per month, which decreased slightly to 32 500 SEK in 2023. However, in 2024, the salary increased significantly to 35 000 SEK per month, representing a salary increase of approximately 7.7% from the previous year. This positive trend can partly be explained by increased demand for technically skilled operators in the printing industry, as well as a growing need for staffing in manufacturing. The temporary decline between 2022 and 2023 may have been due to industry uncertainty or economic factors, but the latest increase indicates stabilization and a strengthened market for the profession. The wage gap between men and women has persisted during this period, reflecting ongoing gender disparities in the industry.

Collator operator salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 35 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 32,000 SEK/month (female)
• Highest salary: 37,000 SEK/month (male)
• Hourly wage (average): 210 SEK
• Men's average salary: 35 800 SEK/month
• Women's average salary: 32,000 SEK/month
• Women earn: 89% of men's salary

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a collator operator in the printing industry often involves completing a high school industrial technology program with a focus on printing technology or through on-the-job training at the workplace. Formal education requirements vary, but technical understanding and practical experience are highly valued. Some employers offer internships or trainee programs to give new employees the opportunity to learn the machinery in real production. Advanced knowledge in mechanical engineering, maintenance, and quality control can be advantageous, especially at larger print facilities.

• High school education: Industrial technology program (3 years)
• On-the-job training: Often offered at the workplace
• Internships: Common during education
• Technical understanding: Basic requirement
• Certifications: May be required for certain machine handling

Common benefits and compensations

Collator operators in the printing industry are often covered by collective agreements that provide for overtime pay, extra vacation days, and other benefits. Pension schemes, wellness allowances, and work clothing are also common benefits. Some employers offer training and opportunities for skill development within the company.

Competition and challenges

The job market for collator operators in the printing industry is characterized by some competition, especially in regions with few larger print facilities. Automation and digitalization have changed the role, requiring high technical competence and adaptability. At the same time, there is steady demand for qualified machine operators, offering good prospects for those willing to develop with industry changes. Challenges may include shift work, monotonous tasks, and physically demanding environments. Success requires precision and the ability to quickly resolve issues during machine stoppages or quality deviations.

Tips for those wanting to become a collator operator in the printing industry

To succeed as a collator operator, having a technical interest and a strong sense of accuracy is beneficial, as machine settings often require precision. Being able to handle stress is advantageous, especially during high-paced production and quick changeovers. Collaboration skills are appreciated, as the role often involves close teamwork with other operators and production management. Initiative can help you quickly identify and fix errors, which is crucial for maintaining production flow. Flexibility and openness to new technology are also important, as the printing industry continuously evolves with new machinery. Engagement in safety and work environment issues provides an edge, particularly at larger workplaces. Finally, an interest in problem-solving is valuable since each day may present new technical challenges.

Key facts about collator operators in the printing industry

• Education level: High school diploma or on-the-job training
• Work environment: Industrial, often shift work
• Demand: 1,437 job openings in the profession
• Typical employment: Full-time, sometimes permanent employment
• Special skills: Mechanical engineering and quality control

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years as a collator operator, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as supervisor, production planner, or technician within the printing industry. Some also choose to further their education in mechanical engineering or automation, opening up even more career options. According to the Employment Service, demand for printers and machine operators remains stable, with 1,437 job openings during the year. Digitalization and automation mean that those who stay updated on new technology and production methods have the best chances to develop and secure stable employment in the future.

Frequently asked questions about collator operators in the printing industry

• What does a collator operator earn in the printing industry?
  - The average salary is 35 000 SEK per month, with variation between 32,000 and 37,000 SEK depending on experience, gender, and workplace.
• What education is required to become a collator operator?
  - High school industrial technology program or equivalent, along with on-the-job training at the workplace, is recommended.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 89% of what men do in the profession.
• What is the job market like for collator operators?
  - Demand is stable, with over 1,400 job openings in the profession currently.
• What personal qualities are important in this profession?
  - Attention to detail, technical interest, and teamwork skills are especially important.
• Can one further education within the profession?
  - Yes, opportunities exist for further training in mechanical engineering and production management.
• Is shift work common?
  - Yes, shift work is common in the printing industry.