Image that illustrates FMS operator

FMS operator

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 FMS operator

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

What does an FMS operator do? – Tasks and work environment

An FMS operator works with monitoring, controlling, and optimizing computer-controlled machines within the metal industry, where FMS stands for Flexible Manufacturing System. Tasks include programming machines, changing tools, performing quality checks, and fixing minor disruptions in the production process. The operator is responsible for maintaining production efficiency and safety, often collaborating with technicians and production managers. The work environment is typically industrial and may involve day and shift work, where precision and technical interest are crucial for success.

Salary development over time

The salary of an FMS operator has seen steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,000 SEK per month, increasing to 34 000 in 2023 and further to 35 200 in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of approximately 6.7% over three years, which is slightly above the industry average. The salary increase is linked to continued high demand for technically skilled operators and a shortage of qualified workers in the field. Despite automation and technological development affecting the industry, the need for competent FMS operators has resulted in positive salary trends. However, this trend may slow down in the long term as more processes become automated and fewer operators are needed per production line.

FMS operator salary – comprehensive overview

  • Average salary: 35 200 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 31,400 SEK/month (female), 31,800 SEK/month (male)
  • Highest salary: 34,500 SEK/month (female), 36,100 SEK/month (male)
  • Hourly wage: 212 SEK
  • Gender differences: Women earn 96% of what men do (34 100 SEK vs. 35 400 SEK)
  • Regional differences: Data varies, but salary levels can be higher in metropolitan areas and industrial growth regions

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming an FMS operator typically involves a technical high school education with a focus on industry, production, or automation. Many employers also require post-secondary courses or certifications in CNC technology and machine programming. Practical experience in the industry is often advantageous, and some employers offer internal trainee programs to ensure the right skills.

  • High school education: Industrial technology program, 3 years
  • Post-secondary courses: CNC technology, automation, production technology
  • Certifications: Industry-specific certificates can be advantageous
  • Internships: Apprenticeships and practical periods during education
  • Prerequisites: Interest in technology and mathematics

FMS operators often work in teams and play a central role in quickly solving problems that may arise in production. The ability to communicate and collaborate with technicians, quality personnel, and production management is therefore just as important as technical knowledge.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

FMS operators are often covered by collective agreements that include benefits such as occupational pension, overtime pay, and extra vacation days. Other common benefits include wellness allowances, work clothing, shift or overtime premiums, and opportunities for skill development through internal courses or external training.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as an FMS operator has been relatively low so far, as the demand for qualified personnel is high and there is a clear shortage of trained operators. At the same time, rapid technological development poses a challenge, as tasks evolve with the introduction of more advanced machines and automated systems. To meet these demands, continuous further training and a genuine interest in technological innovations are required. Additionally, shift work and physically demanding environments can be challenging for some, requiring endurance and flexibility.

Tips for those wanting to become an FMS operator

To succeed as an FMS operator, it is good to combine technical interest with accuracy and problem-solving skills. Gaining early experience with machines and production environments, such as through internships or summer jobs, provides a solid foundation. Communication skills are important, as the work often takes place in teams and involves collaboration with various roles. Flexibility and endurance facilitate handling shift work and varying tasks. A constant desire to develop and stay updated on the latest technology is also crucial, as is the ability to quickly learn new machine systems and work routines.

Key facts about FMS operators

  • Education level: High school education with a technical focus, often supplemented with courses
  • Work environment: Industrial, often shift work and teamwork
  • Demand: High nationally, but expected to decrease over five years
  • Special skills: CNC technology, machine programming, and quality control
  • Job openings: 1437 positions within the profession (May 2024)

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an FMS operator, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as production technician, supervisor, or quality manager within the industry. Many also choose to further their education in automation or production technology to meet the increasing demands for digital skills. According to the Employment Service, the job market for machine setters and machine operators in metalwork remains good, although demand is expected to decline over five years due to technological development and increased automation. The shortage of qualified personnel remains in the short term, making the profession attractive for those entering the industry. Related professions include CNC operator, maintenance technician, and production technician.

Frequently asked questions about FMS operators

  • What does an FMS operator earn?
    - An FMS operator has an average salary of 35 200 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, gender, and region.
  • What education is required to become an FMS operator?
    - High school education with a technical focus, often supplemented with courses in CNC technology or automation.
  • Are there salary differences between men and women?
    - Yes, women earn on average 96% of what men do in the profession.
  • What is the job market like for FMS operators?
    - Job opportunities are large today, but demand is expected to decrease in the longer term according to the Employment Service.
  • What personal qualities are important for an FMS operator?
    - Accuracy, technical interest, teamwork skills, and flexibility are important qualities.
  • What development opportunities are available?
    - It is possible to advance to roles such as production technician, supervisor, or quality manager after a few years of experience.

Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a FMS operator 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 FMS operator 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 FMS operator has the SSYK code 7223, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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