Fish processor

What does a fish preparer do? – tasks and work environment

A fish preparer primarily works with processing and preparing fish and shellfish for further sale to grocery stores, restaurants, and export markets. Tasks include filleting, cleaning, salting, smoking, pickling, and packaging various fish products. The profession may also involve handling machinery and equipment for industrial production, as well as quality control and hygiene work according to food regulations. The work environment is often cool and humid, as much of the work takes place in production facilities with low temperatures to ensure food safety. Shift work occurs, and workload can vary depending on season and demand.

Salary development over time

The salary for fish preparers has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 28,500 SEK per month, which increased to 29 800 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 30 800 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 8% over the period. This salary development reflects both collective agreement adjustments and a certain demand for experience in the food industry. Despite efficiency improvements and automation, the need for skilled fish preparers remains, especially in smaller and specialized companies. Regional differences may occur depending on proximity to the fishing industry and larger production facilities, which can sometimes influence local salary levels.

Fish preparer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 30 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (man): 28,500 SEK
• Highest salary (man): 33,300 SEK
• Lowest salary (woman): 31,400 SEK
• Highest salary (woman): 32,700 SEK
• Hourly wage (average): 185 SEK
• Women earn: 106% of what men do (women: 32 300 SEK, men: 30 400 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on proximity to the fishing industry and labor market.

Education and qualifications

To work as a fish preparer, a high school education with a focus on food, such as the food program, is usually required. Many employers prefer candidates with experience in the food industry or previous practical work with food preparation. Some companies offer internal training or trainee positions where new employees are trained on-site. Knowledge of food hygiene and machinery handling is advantageous and may sometimes be required as formal certifications.

• High school education: Food program, 3 years
• Practical training: Often through school or employment
• Certifications: Food hygiene and machinery safety may be required
• Prerequisites: Basic Swedish and mathematics skills
• Tips: Experience from industrial production or restaurant kitchens facilitates employment

Common benefits and compensations

As a fish preparer, collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, evening and weekend work supplements, and wellness allowances are often offered. Other common benefits include work clothing, subsidized lunch, and sometimes opportunities for skills development through courses. In some cases, bonuses or additional pay for specific tasks may also be available.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for fish preparers is characterized by balance, where supply and demand for labor are evenly distributed. However, demand is expected to decrease over five years mainly due to technological development and increased automation in the food industry. Competition for job opportunities may therefore increase, especially in regions where larger production facilities automate more processes. To meet these challenges, it is important to continuously develop skills and be flexible with changing tasks. At the same time, there are still good employment opportunities, especially for those with specialized knowledge or experience in quality work.

Tips for those who want to become a fish preparer

To succeed as a fish preparer, it is good to have an interest in food and a meticulous, quality-conscious attitude. Practical experience from restaurants or industrial production can be an advantage, as well as the ability to work efficiently in teams and handle monotonous tasks. Being flexible and quickly adapting to new routines is appreciated by employers, especially during seasonal variations. Good physical condition is needed as the work is often physically demanding and takes place in cool environments. High hygiene standards and a sense of responsibility are crucial to ensure products meet quality standards. Showing engagement and a willingness to learn new skills increases opportunities for advancement within the profession.

Key facts about fish preparers

• Education level: High school, often food program
• Work environment: Cool and humid production facilities
• Work form: Shift work common
• Demand: Moderate, but decreasing over time
• Special skills: Food hygiene and machinery handling

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a fish preparer, there are opportunities to advance to supervisory roles or specialize in quality control and production technology. Some choose to further their education in food technology or machinery service, opening doors to new roles within the industry. According to the Employment Service's forecast, job opportunities in the profession are moderate today, but demand is expected to decrease over five years due to automation and efficiency improvements. Nevertheless, there remains a need for experienced workers, especially in smaller facilities and for qualified tasks. Currently, there are 1437 job openings in the machine operators within the food industry sector.

Frequently asked questions about fish preparers

• What does a fish preparer earn?
  - A fish preparer has an average salary of 30 800 SEK per month. Women earn an average of 32 300 SEK and men 30 400 SEK.
• What education is required to become a fish preparer?
  - Usually, a high school education, preferably in the food program, along with knowledge of food hygiene and machinery handling, is required.
• What is the work environment like for a fish preparer?
  - The work environment is often cool and humid, with work in production facilities and sometimes shift work.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 106% of men's salaries in the profession.
• What are the future prospects for fish preparers?
  - Job opportunities are moderate today, but demand is expected to decrease over five years due to automation.
• What is the highest salary for a fish preparer?
  - The highest salary for a man is 33,300 SEK, and for a woman 32,700 SEK.
• What personal qualities are important for a fish preparer?
  - Attention to detail, responsibility, flexibility, and good physical ability are important qualities.