Aircraft fitter

What does an aircraft assembler do? – Tasks and work environment

An aircraft assembler works with assembling, installing, and inspecting components and systems on aircraft during the manufacturing process. Tasks often include following detailed drawings, using specialized tools, and ensuring that all parts meet high standards of quality and safety. The environment emphasizes precision and accuracy, with collaboration between engineers and other technicians common. The workplace is typically in large hangars or workshops, where both individual and team efforts are involved depending on the project scope.

Salary development over time

The salary of an aircraft assembler has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,100 SEK per month, which increased to 32 700 SEK in 2023 and to 33 800 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 8.7% over three years. This positive trend can be linked to an increased need for skilled labor in the aviation industry and a general shortage of technically trained assemblers. Market demand has been stable, pushing wages upward as employers compete for expertise. The increase has been consistent and is expected to continue with technological advances and increased safety requirements.

Aircraft assembler salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 32,800 SEK/month (female), 33,100 SEK/month (male)
• Highest salary: 35,400 SEK/month (male), 33,000 SEK/month (female)
• Hourly wage: 203 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 97% of what men do (men 33 900 SEK, women 32,800 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as an aircraft assembler, a technical high school education with a focus on vehicles or industry is usually required, or equivalent adult education. Many employers also require certifications to ensure the assembler has the specialized knowledge needed to meet the rigorous safety standards of the aviation industry. Practical experience from similar roles, such as vehicle assembler or mechanic, is often advantageous and can sometimes replace formal education.

• High school: Vehicle or industrial technology (3 years)
• Vocational training: Technician in aviation or vehicles (1–2 years)
• Certifications: Specialized courses in aeronautical technology and safety
• Internship: Workplace-based learning or trainee programs
• Prerequisites: Basic technical understanding and passing grades in mathematics and physics

Common benefits and compensations

Aircraft assemblers are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pensions, insurances, and wellness allowances. Shift or overtime premiums, opportunities for further training, and sometimes bonuses linked to project completion and quality are also common. Work clothing and protective equipment are regularly provided, and some employers offer subsidized lunches or staff discounts.

Competition and challenges

The demand for aircraft assemblers remains high, but the profession faces challenges such as technological development and increased specialization requirements. While many leave the profession, recruitment difficulties exist, creating good opportunities for those with the right training. Competition for jobs can vary regionally and depending on economic conditions, but the job market is generally stable. Challenges include staying updated on new materials, production methods, and digital tools. Precision and responsibility are critical, as the work directly impacts flight safety.

Tips for those who want to become aircraft assemblers

To succeed as an aircraft assembler, it is helpful to have organizational skills and be meticulous, as every detail affects flight safety. An interest in technology facilitates learning new methods and tools, and problem-solving skills help when facing unexpected challenges during assembly. Good teamwork skills are essential, as work is often done in teams where communication must be clear. Flexibility and adaptability are also valuable, especially as tasks or technologies evolve rapidly. Being responsible and patient is crucial, as work can be repetitive but requires constant focus. A willingness to further educate oneself and keep up with technological progress provides long-term job security. Lastly, being able to handle stress is an advantage, as the pace can sometimes be high.

Key facts about aircraft assemblers

• Education level: High school or vocational training
• Work environment: Workshop or hangar, often in teams
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide
• Special skills: Aeronautical technology, assembly, and safety procedures
• Available jobs: 1,437 within the profession (May 2024)

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years as an aircraft assembler, opportunities open to advance into more specialized roles such as quality technician, supervisor, or instructor in the aviation industry. Some choose to further their education as aircraft technicians or production engineers, which can lead to higher responsibility and salary. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, job prospects are strong over the next five years, with continued stable demand. Despite some recruitment difficulties due to attrition, the need for new assemblers is expected to remain. Digitalization and technological development may also create new career paths for those interested in automation or quality assurance.

Frequently asked questions about aircraft assemblers

• What is the average salary of an aircraft assembler?
  - An aircraft assembler has an average salary of 33 800 SEK per month.
• What do gender differences look like in the salary for aircraft assemblers?
  - Men earn on average 33 900 SEK while women earn 32,800 SEK, which means women earn approximately 97% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become an aircraft assembler?
  - Typically, a high school education with a technical focus, or vocational training, and sometimes certifications in aeronautical technology are required.
• What is the job market like for aircraft assemblers?
  - The job market is good with 1,437 available jobs in spring 2024 and stable demand according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
• Are there opportunities for career development?
  - Yes, opportunities exist to advance to roles such as supervisor, quality technician, or aircraft technician after a few years in the profession.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for an aircraft assembler?
  - The highest salary is 35,400 SEK per month (male), while the lowest is 32,800 SEK per month (female).
• What qualities are important for an aircraft assembler?
  - Accuracy, technical interest, teamwork skills, and responsibility are particularly important qualities.