Forming machine operator, plastic

What does a mold machine operator in the plastics industry do? – Tasks and work environment

A mold machine operator in the plastics industry is responsible for monitoring and controlling machines that form plastic products through various processes, such as injection molding or blow molding. Tasks include preparing machines, changing molds, starting and supervising production, and performing quality checks on finished products. It also involves troubleshooting minor issues, performing routine maintenance, and documenting production data. The work environment often features high noise levels, shift work, and some monotonous tasks. Safety awareness and precision are crucial, as the work is performed close to machines in an industrial setting where pace can be intense at times.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salary development for mold machine operators in the plastics industry has been steadily positive. In 2022, the average salary was 30,900 SEK per month, increasing to 32 000 SEK in 2023 and further to 33 200 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 7.5% over the period. The annual growth has been driven by increased demand for skilled machine operators, along with some wage adjustments in line with inflation in the industry. Despite this growth, signs indicate that the salary curve may level off in the future, partly due to increased automation and technological development affecting demand for the profession.

Form machine operator, plastics salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,500 SEK/month (female, regional sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Highest salary: 35,700 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education 3 years or more)
• Hourly wage: 200 SEK/hour (based on 166 working hours per month)
• Women's salary: 31 800 SEK/month (94% of men's salary)
• Men's salary: 33 900 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salary variations occur depending on region and employer

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a mold machine operator in the plastics industry typically involves vocational high school programs, often within industry or production technology. For some employers, post-secondary education or certifications in plastics technology may be advantageous. Practical experience, such as internships or trainee positions, is highly valued and can be crucial for employment. Further training, such as machine-specific courses or safety training, is common within the profession.

• High school education: Industrial technology programs, 3 years
• Post-secondary courses: Plastics technology or machine operator training
• Certifications: Safety and machine operation certificates
• Internships: Extended internships or trainee positions are recommended
• Prerequisites: Basic technical interest and good physical health
• Tips: Choose a high school program with access to internships and industry contacts

Common benefits and compensations

Employees working as mold machine operators in the plastics industry are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pensions, extra vacation days, wellness allowances, and various insurances. Shift work may entitle workers to overtime pay, and some workplaces also offer bonus programs or additional pay for specific tasks. Opportunities for skills development and internal training are common in many companies.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a mold machine operator in the plastics industry is currently relatively low, as employers often report recruitment difficulties and a large number of vacancies – a total of 1,437 within the occupational group. At the same time, technological development and increased automation are expected to reduce demand for the profession over the next five years. This requires flexibility and a willingness to adapt to new tasks and technologies. Staying updated on new machines and safety routines is crucial to remain competitive in the future.

Tips for those wishing to become a mold machine operator in the plastics industry

To succeed as a mold machine operator in the plastics industry, it is beneficial to have a strong technical interest and curiosity about how machines work, as this facilitates learning and problem-solving. Precision is an important trait since quality control and safety routines are central parts of the work. Being flexible and able to adapt to changes in the production flow increases the chances of enjoying and developing in the profession. Good teamwork skills are valuable, as work often occurs in teams where communication is key to avoiding production stoppages. Finally, it’s wise to seek internships during your education and to take advantage of further training opportunities in plastics technology, which can give an edge in the job market.

Key facts about Mold Machine Operator, Plastics

• Education level: High school education in industry recommended
• Work environment: Industrial setting with shift work and high noise levels
• Demand: Great opportunities today, but decreasing in the future
• Gender distribution: Men earn on average 5% more than women
• Number of job openings: 1,437 in the occupational group

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years of experience as a mold machine operator in the plastics industry, tasks can expand towards roles such as process operator, supervisor, or technician responsible for maintenance and optimization of production lines. Some choose to further their education in production technology or automation to move into specialist or engineering roles. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, the job market for machine operators in the plastics industry is currently very good, but demand is expected to decline over the next five years due to automation and technological development. Continual training and staying updated on new technologies are therefore essential for long-term job security.

Frequently asked questions about Mold Machine Operator, Plastics

• What does a mold machine operator in the plastics industry earn?
  - A mold machine operator in the plastics industry has an average salary of 33 200 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn on average 33 900 SEK and women 31 800 SEK, which means women earn 94% of men's salaries.
• 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 due to automation.
• What education is required to become a mold machine operator in the plastics industry?
  - High school education in industry or production is most common, sometimes also post-secondary courses or certifications are needed.
• What tasks does a mold machine operator perform?
  - Tasks include monitoring machines, quality control, maintenance, and documenting production data.
• What is the work environment like?
  - Work takes place in an industrial environment with shift work, high noise levels, and safety requirements.
• Are there many job openings in the profession?
  - Yes, currently there are 1,437 available jobs within the occupational group of machine operators in the plastics industry.