Chrome-plated

What does a chromer do? – Tasks and work environment

A chromer works with applying chrome coatings to metal surfaces, usually through electrochemical surface treatment in industrial environments. The tasks include preparing materials, monitoring chemical baths, and carefully inspecting the surface quality to ensure that the finished product meets high standards of durability and aesthetics. The role also involves maintaining machinery and equipment, as well as handling chemicals according to safety regulations. The work environment is often noisy and humid, requiring protective gear and good knowledge of workplace safety regulations. Chromers are primarily found in manufacturing industries where the demand for high-quality surface coatings is constant.

Salary development over time

The salary for chromers has increased steadily over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,100 SEK per month, rising to 32 800 SEK in 2023 and further to 35,200 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 13.2% over the period. This development reflects a general wage increase within the industrial sector, partly driven by increased demand for skilled labor and the need to attract personnel to technically demanding roles. The industry’s need for specialized competence in surface treatment has also contributed to rising wages, along with a generational shift affecting the availability of experienced workers. Despite the positive trend, clear gender wage gaps still persist.

Chromer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 35,200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 32,400 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 36,200 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 212 SEK
• Women's average salary: 32,400 SEK/month (91% of men's salary)
• Men's average salary: 35 700 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Highest salaries are found within the regional sector

Education and qualifications

To work as a chromer, a high school education with a focus on industrial technology or similar is usually required, supplemented by on-the-job training. Practical experience with surface treatment and a good understanding of chemical processes are essential. Many employers also value certifications in workplace safety and chemical handling, as well as prior internships in the industry.

• High school education: Industrial technology program, 3 years
• Certifications: Workplace safety and chemical handling
• Internship: Often required as part of training or internship period
• Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of chemistry and technology
• Further education: Opportunities for specialized courses in surface treatment

Common benefits and compensations

Chromers are often offered collectively negotiated benefits such as occupational pension, extra vacation days, and wellness allowances. Additional pay for unsociable working hours, as well as work clothing and protective gear provided by the employer, are common. Some workplaces also offer further training and skills development as part of employment conditions.

Competition and challenges

The job market for chromers is characterized by a relatively small but specialized workforce, with competition for jobs varying by region and economic cycle. A challenge is that the profession requires both technical skills and precision, while the work environment demands high safety standards and physical endurance. Automation and technological development may impact the demand for certain tasks, but there remains a significant need for skilled chromers for specialized assignments. Lack of new entrants to the profession could eventually cause recruitment problems, especially as experienced workers retire. Job availability also depends on the manufacturing industry’s economic situation and investments in new production.

Tips for those who want to become a chromer

To succeed as a chromer, it is good to be meticulous and have an interest in detailed work, as small mistakes can affect the final surface quality. Patience and methodical work during chemical bath monitoring and quality control are advantageous. Technical interest and ability to learn new machines or tasks make it easier to adapt to industry changes. Physical endurance and awareness of safety are important traits since the work environment can be demanding and risky. Teamwork skills are necessary when multiple persons are responsible for different parts of the surface treatment process, and a willingness to continually develop increases chances for further training and career opportunities. Responsibility and following routines contribute to both safety and high work quality.

Key facts about a chromer

• Education level: High school education, often industrial technology focus
• Typical work environment: Industrial workshop with chemical handling
• Work form: Shift work and physically demanding tasks
• Demand: 1,437 job openings within the profession (2024)
• Special skills: Chemistry, machine handling, and quality control

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a chromer, there are opportunities to move into more specialized roles within surface treatment or to take on supervisory positions, such as team leader or production manager. Further training can also open pathways to roles in quality control or process technology. According to employment forecasts, there is limited data to assess future job opportunities specifically for chromers, but the overall demand for machine operators in surface treatment remains stable with many job openings. Industry developments influenced by economic cycles and technological advances suggest that skilled chromers will have good prospects for continued employment and career growth within the industry.

Frequently asked questions about chromers

• What is the average salary of a chromer?
  - A chromer has an average monthly salary of 35,200 SEK.
• What does the salary look like for women and men?
  - Men earn an average of 35 700 SEK while women earn 32,400 SEK, which means women earn 91% of men's salary.
• What is required to become a chromer?
  - Usually, a high school education with an industrial technology focus plus practical training or internship period.
• What is the work environment like for a chromer?
  - The work environment is industrial, often noisy, and requires careful handling of chemicals and protective equipment.
• What are common employment benefits?
  - Collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, extra vacation days, and wellness allowances are common.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, the highest salaries are found within the regional sector and vary depending on the geographic location of the workplace.
• What are the future prospects for a chromer?
  - Currently, there are 1,437 job openings in the profession, but no precise forecast for the career as a whole.