Mold press, layered wood

What does a form presser within layered wood do? – Tasks and working environment

A form presser within layered wood primarily works with manufacturing bent and shaped wood products by pressing thin layers of wood together under heat and pressure. Tasks include machine setup, monitoring the pressing process, quality control, and sometimes basic machine maintenance. The role also involves handling and preparing raw materials, and ensuring safety regulations are followed. The working environment is usually industry-based, with work taking place in production facilities where noise and dust are present, but modern ventilation systems and protective gear are used to reduce risks.

Salary development over time

The profession of form presser within layered wood has experienced steady salary increases in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,600 SEK per month, increasing to 35 000 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 36 800 SEK, representing a total increase of about 9.5% over the period. This positive trend can mainly be explained by continued demand for specialized skills in the industry, as well as general wage adjustments in line with inflation and increased production demands. The shortage of newly recruited workers and the need for experienced personnel have also contributed to a stronger salary development than the average for similar professions. There is some variation depending on region and workplace size.

Form presser, layered wood salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 36 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 35,400 SEK/month (female)
• Highest salary: 37,400 SEK/month (male, regional sector, high school education)
• Hourly wage: 221 SEK (average, hourly paid)
• Women earn: 96% of men's salary (women: 35,400 SEK, men: 37 000 SEK)
• Regional differences: Slight variations, highest salaries in regional sector

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a form presser within layered wood usually involves attending a high school technical program or equivalent training with a focus on the wood and furniture industry. Employers value practical experience, and many get introduced to the profession through internships or apprenticeships. A combination of technical knowledge, machine familiarity, and understanding of wood properties is crucial for success and advancement in the profession.

• High school education: Industrial technical program, focus on wood technology (3 years)
• Internship/apprenticeship: Common during training
• Internal training: Often provided upon employment
• Courses in machine safety and quality: Meritorious
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition and technical interest

Common benefits and compensations

A form presser within layered wood is often covered by collective agreements that provide occupational pension, extra insurance, and compensation for unsocial hours. Other common benefits may include wellness allowances, work clothing, and sometimes subsidized lunches or staff discounts. Opportunities for further training and skills development are often available to meet technological shifts in the industry.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a form presser within layered wood can vary depending on region and economic climate, but overall the job market is stable thanks to Sweden’s strong wood and furniture industry. A challenge is that new technology and automation increase demands for technical competence and adaptability. Since the profession requires both precision and physical endurance, it can be difficult to find suitable candidates, especially among younger applicants. The industry’s move towards more sustainable production also makes knowledge of environmentally friendly processes increasingly important. Despite this, prospects are good for those who combine practical experience with a willingness to further educate themselves.

Tips for aspiring form pressers within layered wood

To succeed as a form presser within layered wood, it is beneficial to be meticulous and detail-oriented, as precision is critical in the pressing process. A strong interest in technology facilitates understanding machinery and production flows, which is a significant advantage in daily work. Being resilient and physically fit is important, as tasks are often monotonous and sometimes physically demanding. It is recommended to seek internships or summer jobs in the wood industry early on to build experience and networks. Flexibility and openness to new working methods help with the adoption of new technology. Good teamwork skills are valued, as much of the work is team-based. Finally, continuous further education in material science and machine safety helps maintain attractiveness in the job market.

Key facts about form pressers within layered wood

• Education level: High school education, often industrial technical program
• Work environment: Industrial, noise and dust present
• Common work schedule: Shift work or daytime
• Demand: 1,437 job openings within the profession (May 2024)
• Gender distribution: Men dominate, but women are represented

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a form presser within layered wood, opportunities exist to advance to supervisor, production technician, or quality manager within the wood and furniture industry. Many choose to specialize further in areas such as machine maintenance or product development. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s job forecasts, no specific assessment is made for the profession due to limited data, but the general demand for machine operators in the wood industry remains stable. The number of job openings indicates the job market remains active, especially for those with experience and technical skills. Digitalization and sustainability focus may create new career opportunities in the future.

Frequently asked questions about form pressers within layered wood

• What does a form presser within layered wood earn?
  - The average salary is 36 800 SEK per month, with variations between 35,400 SEK and 37,400 SEK depending on gender and sector.
• What education is required to become a form presser within layered wood?
  - A high school education with a focus on industry or wood technology is most common, often supplemented with practical training.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn approximately 96% of what men do within the profession.
• What is the working environment like for a form presser?
  - The work environment is industry-based, with noise and dust, but protective equipment is used.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Common career paths include supervisor, production technician, or specialized machine operator.
• How high is the demand for form pressers within layered wood?
  - There are 1,437 job openings within the profession, indicating strong demand.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for the profession?
  - The highest salary is 37,400 SEK (male), the lowest is 35,400 SEK (female).