Defibrator attendant

What does a Defibrillator Operator do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Defibrillator Operator mainly works within the wood industry and is responsible for the operation and monitoring of defibrators – machines used to process wood into fibers for the production of wood-based materials. Tasks include starting, adjusting, and stopping machines, performing simple maintenance, and overseeing the process to ensure correct quality and safety. The work often takes place in industrial environments where safety routines must be followed, and close cooperation with colleagues in the production team is essential. Irregular working hours occur, and the work environment can be noisy and require protective equipment.

Salary development over time

The salary for Defibrillator Operators has shown steady and positive growth over recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,600 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 35 000 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 4.2%. In 2024, the average salary further rose to 36 800 SEK, a growth of 5.1% compared to the previous year. This salary trend reflects continued demand for skilled personnel in the wood industry’s production, as well as general wage adjustments in line with inflation and collective agreements. The salary development of this profession has been somewhat stronger than the average for similar industrial jobs, possibly due to increased demands for technical competence and efficiency in production.

Defibrillator Operator Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 36 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 35,400 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 37,400 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 221 SEK
• Women's average salary: 35,400 SEK/month (96% of men's salary)
• Men's average salary: 37 000 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Highest salary in regional sector (37,400 SEK/month for men)

Education and Qualifications

To work as a Defibrillator Operator, a high school education in industry, technology, or wood technology is generally required. Many employers value previous experience from industrial production, but internal training and onboarding at the workplace are common. Practical skills, technical interest, and the ability to follow safety routines are important for success in the profession.

• High school education: Industry, technology, or wood technology (2–3 years)
• Internal training: Practical introduction and supervision at the workplace
• Certifications: Some employers may require forklift or crane licenses
• Prerequisites: Basic technical knowledge and safety awareness
• Experience: Previous work in industry is advantageous

Common Benefits and Compensation

Defibrillator Operators are often covered by collective agreements that guarantee occupational pension, overtime pay, and allowances for unsociable hours. Other common benefits include wellness allowances, work clothing, and opportunities for skill development through internal or external training. In some cases, bonus systems linked to production efficiency or safety targets are also offered.

Competition and Challenges

The competition for positions as a Defibrillator Operator is moderate, but the availability of job openings can vary depending on region and economic conditions within the wood industry. A challenge in the profession is the need for good technical understanding and the ability to quickly resolve operational disruptions to minimize production downtime. The work environment can be physically demanding and noisy, requiring endurance and precision. Automation and technological development mean that continuous updating of skills is necessary, but this also creates opportunities for those willing to further their education. Despite relatively stable demand, there is a need to attract more young people to the profession to meet future pension withdrawals.

Tips for those who want to become a Defibrillator Operator

To succeed as a Defibrillator Operator, it is beneficial to have both technical interest and a willingness to learn new things. Precision is crucial since machines require continuous monitoring and adjustment, and problem-solving skills help you handle unexpected disruptions quickly. Being cooperative facilitates communication with colleagues and contributes to a safe work environment, while a sense of responsibility ensures safety routines are followed diligently. Flexibility is also important, as the job often involves shift work and sometimes rapid changes in production. For those who are practically inclined and enjoy working with their hands, there are good opportunities to thrive and develop in the profession. Finally, being proactive and showing engagement in improvement efforts is appreciated by employers in the industry.

Key facts about Defibrillator Operators

• Education level: High school diploma (industry/technology)
• Work environment: Industrial and often noisy environment
• Typical work form: Shift work within production
• Demand: 1,437 job openings within the profession
• Gender distribution: Men have higher average salaries than women

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a Defibrillator Operator, there are opportunities for advancement to supervisory roles, such as shift supervisor or production technician. Some choose to further their education in process technology or maintenance, which can open doors to more specialized positions within the wood industry or related sectors. The employment agency's forecasts indicate that there is currently no clear assessment of future prospects, but the large number of job openings suggests continued demand. Automation and digitalization are expected to influence the profession going forward, and those interested in technological development have good opportunities to strengthen their competitiveness.

Frequently asked questions about Defibrillator Operators

• What does a Defibrillator Operator earn?
  - A Defibrillator Operator has an average salary of 36 800 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development looked for Defibrillator Operators?
  - Salaries have increased from 33,600 SEK (2022) to 36 800 SEK (2024), representing a steady growth.
• Are there differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn on average 37 000 SEK and women 35,400 SEK, which means women earn 96% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a Defibrillator Operator?
  - High school education in industry, technology, or wood technology is most common, often supplemented with internal training.
• What does the job market look like for Defibrillator Operators?
  - There are 1,437 job openings in the profession, indicating good demand.
• What does a Defibrillator Operator do?
  - The role involves monitoring and operating defibrators in the wood industry, as well as performing basic maintenance and quality control.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Occupational pension, overtime pay, wellness allowances, and work clothing are typical benefits.