Molds, plastic

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

A plastic mold maker primarily works with manufacturing products and components through plastic molding. Tasks include monitoring and controlling molding machines, preparing and maintaining molds, and inspecting the quality of finished products. The mold maker is also responsible for adjusting machine settings to optimize production and minimize material waste. The work environment is often industrial, with noise and a high focus on safety, where protective equipment and precision are essential. The work may involve shift work and requires good physical condition as well as the ability to work independently and in teams.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for a plastic mold maker has increased steadily. In 2022, the average salary was 30,900 SEK per month, rising in 2023 to 32 000 SEK and then reaching 33 200 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total salary increase of approximately 7.5% over the period. This development reflects a continued demand for skills within the plastics industry, although the sector is affected by technological development and automation in the long term. The salary increase is also a result of the industry's need to attract and retain qualified personnel, especially as many leave the profession and recruitment difficulties persist. Regional differences may occur, with salaries generally higher in metropolitan areas and near larger industrial centers.

Plastic mold maker salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,500 SEK/month (female, regional sector, upper secondary education)
• Highest salary: 35,700 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage: 200 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 33 900 SEK, women 31 800 SEK (women earn 94% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salaries are generally higher in metropolitan regions and near larger industries

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a plastic mold maker usually goes through the upper secondary industrial technology program or equivalent vocational training with a focus on plastics and polymer technology. Practical experience from industry and knowledge of machine handling are highly meritorious. Some employers also require internal training or specialized courses in mold-making techniques.

• Upper secondary education: Industrial technology program, 3 years
• Vocational colleges: Specialized training in plastics technology, 1–2 years
• Certifications: Courses in machine safety and quality control
• Internships: Internships at plastics industries provide valuable experience
• Prerequisites: Good physical health, technical interest, and accuracy

Common benefits and compensations

Plastic mold makers are often offered benefits such as shift allowances, overtime pay for inconvenient hours, wellness contributions, and opportunities for further training and education. Other common compensations include occupational pension, employee discounts, and sometimes bonuses linked to production targets. Employment is often full-time and may include shift work.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a plastic mold maker is relatively low nationally, but the industry faces significant challenges. Despite a large number of vacancies – 1437 in the profession – demand is expected to decrease over the next five years. Automation and technological development impact the labor market and may reduce the need for traditional mold makers. At the same time, recruitment difficulties persist as many leave the profession and younger talents need to be attracted to the industry. To meet future demands, a willingness to further educate oneself and adapt to new technology and more digitized work processes is required.

Tips for those who want to become a plastic mold maker

To succeed as a plastic mold maker, it is good to combine technical interest with accuracy and a sense of responsibility. The first step is to choose the right education, preferably with a focus on industry or plastics technology, which provides a solid foundation. Practical experience is invaluable, so it is recommended to take every opportunity for internships and summer jobs within the industry. The ability to collaborate and communicate clearly is important, as the work often takes place in teams and requires good coordination. Flexibility and adaptability facilitate shift work and changing routines, while problem-solving skills help with machine breakdowns or quality issues. Showing engagement and willingness to learn new technology makes you stand out when the industry develops. Last but not least, patience and perseverance are crucial to enjoying and developing in the role.

Key facts about Plastic Mold Maker

• Education level: Upper secondary or post-secondary vocational training
• Work environment: Industrial, often with shift work
• Demand: Great job opportunities today, but decreasing in the long term
• Gender distribution: Predominantly men, but women are increasing
• Special skills: Machine handling and quality assurance

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession as a plastic mold maker, opportunities open to take on more qualified roles such as team leader, production planner, or quality manager within the plastics industry. Those who develop specialist skills in automation or maintenance can also work as technicians or process developers. According to the Employment Service’s forecasts, job opportunities are good today, but demand may decline over five years due to increased automation. The profession faces recruitment challenges, which can benefit those who are flexible and willing to further educate themselves in technology and digitalization. At the same time, there are good chances for advancement within the industry for those demonstrating leadership skills and interest in production development.

Common questions about Plastic Mold Makers

• What does a plastic mold maker earn?
  - A plastic mold maker has an average salary of 33 200 SEK per month, but the salary varies depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Men earn an average of 33 900 SEK, while women have an average salary of 31 800 SEK, which means women earn 94% of what men do.
• What education is required to become a plastic mold maker?
  - The most common is the upper secondary industrial technology program, but vocational colleges and internal company training also occur.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Today, there are great opportunities for employment, but demand is expected to decrease over the next five years according to the Employment Service.
• What are common tasks for a plastic mold maker?
  - The work involves monitoring machines, preparing molds, inspecting quality, and adjusting processes as needed.
• How much does an hourly-paid plastic mold maker earn?
  - The hourly wage for a plastic mold maker is on average 200 SEK.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries tend to be higher in metropolitan regions and near larger industries.