Mold builders, boats

What does a boat mold maker do? – Tasks and work environment

A boat mold maker primarily works with manufacturing and maintaining molds used for building hulls, decks, and other components in composite materials. Tasks include reading drawings, preparing materials, designing and processing molds, often in wood, plastic, or metal. The job also involves sanding, lamination, repairs, and quality checks of both molds and finished boat parts. Work is usually performed in a workshop environment, requiring high precision, accuracy, and safe handling of materials. The environment can be physically demanding, with periods of monotonous and more creative tasks, and close collaboration with other craftsmen and production staff is common.

Wage development over time

The salary for boat mold makers has shown some variation over recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,400 SEK per month, increasing to 33 000 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has slightly decreased to 32 300 SEK per month, a decline of approximately 2.1% compared to the previous year. This trend can be explained by increased competition and an oversupply of labor, which negatively affects salary levels despite ongoing demand for skills. The slight downward trend also reflects a general slowdown in skilled trades, where technological development and more efficient production methods have altered market needs. Nevertheless, the salary for boat mold makers remains in line with other specialized trades and provides a stable income for those with the right skills.

Boat mold maker salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 32 300 SEK/month
• Lowest/Highest salary: Data not available, but the average indicates a relatively even salary distribution
• Hourly wage: 194 SEK
• Gender differences: Salary data available only for men (32 300 SEK); data for women is missing
• Regional differences: No specific data available, but the industry is concentrated in regions with high boat-building activity

Education and qualifications

To work as a boat mold maker, a high school vocational education in woodwork or carpentry is typically required, or alternatively a practical training program focused on boat construction or composite technology. Many employers also value experience from carpentry, workshop work, or previous work in the boat industry. Practical experience, gained through apprenticeships or internships, is often a prerequisite for employment. Additional courses in material science, reading drawings, and work environment safety can be advantageous.

• High school vocational training: Construction and civil engineering programs, specializing in woodwork or carpentry (3 years)
• Vocational college: Courses or programs in boat construction or composite technology (1–2 years)
• Internship: Apprenticeship or internship at a boatyard is strongly recommended
• Certifications: Work environment training and safety courses may be required
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition and interest in craftsmanship

Common benefits and compensations

Boat mold makers often receive collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, insurance, wellness allowances, and sometimes work clothing. Some employers also provide subsidized meals, bonus programs for special projects, and opportunities for further training and certification within the profession.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as boat mold makers is currently relatively high, mainly due to an oversupply of qualified workers and a stable but limited demand for new boats. Many companies seek experienced craftsmen with specialized skills, making it harder for recent graduates to quickly establish themselves in the job market. Technological advances in materials and manufacturing methods also require continuous training and adaptability. An additional challenge is the work environment, which can involve heavy lifting, exposure to dust and chemicals, and high demands for accuracy and safety. Despite these factors, there are opportunities for those willing to invest in their skills development and build a network within the industry.

Tips for aspiring boat mold makers

To succeed as a boat mold maker, it is important to combine practical skills with a keen eye for detail. Precision is crucial, so always double-check measurements and drawings to avoid costly mistakes. Flexibility is an important trait, as tasks can vary between projects and materials. Showing curiosity about new techniques and materials increases employment chances, especially if complemented by relevant courses or certifications. Good teamwork skills facilitate daily work, as tasks are often performed in teams requiring effective communication. Patience and perseverance are also valuable, particularly during long or repetitive tasks. Lastly, initiative is appreciated, as a mold maker who takes responsibility and finds solutions quickly becomes an invaluable resource in the workshop.

Key facts about Boat Mold Makers

• Education level: Vocational high school or equivalent practical experience
• Work environment: Workshop, often with dust and chemicals
• Work form: Full-time, sometimes shift work
• Demand: Limited opportunities according to the Employment Service, 341 job openings in the profession
• Special skills: Material science and reading drawings

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a boat mold maker, there are opportunities to advance to more specialized roles such as supervisor, production technician, or technical specialist in composite materials. Some choose to start their own business in boat construction or mold manufacturing. According to the Employment Service’s forecast for carpenters and furniture makers, the job market is relatively stable but with limited new hiring opportunities nationwide and an oversupply of labor. Demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, meaning competition for positions will stay high. Those seeking career growth should invest in further training and specialization in new materials or advanced manufacturing techniques.

Frequently asked questions about Boat Mold Makers

• What does a boat mold maker earn?
  - The average salary is 32 300 SEK/month, with an hourly wage of 194 SEK.
• What education is required to become a boat mold maker?
  - High school vocational training in woodwork or carpentry, or alternatively vocational college education or apprenticeship.
• What is the job market like for boat mold makers?
  - There is a surplus of labor and limited employment opportunities according to the Employment Service.
• What are the tasks of a boat mold maker?
  - Manufacturing and maintenance of molds, material processing, quality control, and repairs.
• Are there regional salary differences for boat mold makers?
  - No specific data available, but the industry is concentrated in regions with high boat-building activity.
• What personal qualities are important for a boat mold maker?
  - Precision, patience, flexibility, and teamwork skills are highly valued.
• What career opportunities are available after a few years?
  - Supervisor, technical specialist, or self-employed within boat construction and mold manufacturing.