What does a salesperson in building materials do? – Tasks and work environment
A salesperson in building materials primarily works with selling products and materials to companies and individuals within the construction and civil engineering sector. Tasks include advising, order processing, calculations, and follow-up of orders. Contact is often via phone, email, or in-store, requiring good product knowledge and the ability to quickly understand customer needs. The work environment is usually indoors, often in offices or at building supply stores, but there are also visits to customers or construction sites. The pace can be high during peak seasons or before major projects, demanding flexibility and good stress management.
Salary development over time
The salary for salespeople in building materials has shown steady and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,700 SEK per month, increased to 49 600 SEK in 2023, and reached 51 300 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of about 9.8% over three years. The increase has partly been driven by growing demand for qualified salespeople with good product knowledge, as well as a strong construction market overall. The trend also indicates that employers value experience and specialized skills highly, which has pushed salaries upward. Differences between genders persist, with men still earning higher salaries than women, although the gap is narrowing gradually.
Many salespeople in building materials develop deep expertise in specific product areas, making them invaluable advisors for both customers and colleagues. The technological development in the construction industry also means that salespeople often participate in introducing new, innovative materials and solutions.
Salesperson in building materials salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 51 300 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 38,200 SEK/month (female, public sector)
- Highest salary: 61,500 SEK/month (male, private sector, after-school education 3+ years)
- Hourly wage: 309 SEK (based on 166 working hours/month)
- Women earn: 47 200 SEK/month (89% of men's salary)
- Men earn: 53 000 SEK/month
- Regional differences: Data on regional variations is unavailable
Education and qualifications
To work as a salesperson in building materials, a high school education is usually required, often with a focus on trade, sales, or construction. Many employers value experience from the construction industry, but internal training and product knowledge are also important factors. For some positions, post-secondary education or certifications may be advantageous, especially if the role involves technical advice or project management.
- High school education: Trade programs or construction programs (3 years)
- Internal training: Product and sales training provided by the employer
- Experience: Internships or work experience in the construction industry are often advantageous
- Certifications: Possible in certain product or safety areas
- Prerequisites: Good communication skills and proficiency in Swedish, both spoken and written
Common benefits and compensations
Salespeople in building materials are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness contributions, insurance, and sometimes performance-based bonuses. Additional benefits may include employee discounts on building materials, training opportunities, and flexible working hours depending on the size and focus of the workplace.
Competition and challenges
The competition for roles as a salesperson in building materials is generally balanced, meaning there are roughly equal numbers of job seekers and vacancies. One of the main challenges is staying updated on new products and technical solutions, as the construction industry evolves rapidly. Customer demands for technical competence and service are increasing, requiring strong communication and problem-solving skills. Seasonal variations can also lead to periods of high workload. Adaptability and ongoing training are therefore important for success and career development in the profession.
Tips for those wanting to become a salesperson in building materials
To succeed as a salesperson in building materials, combining social skills with a strong interest in the construction industry is beneficial. Being attentive and able to quickly understand customer needs is crucial, especially when explaining complex products or solutions. Precision and organizational skills help manage quotes and orders accurately, while a positive and persistent attitude facilitates handling high work tempo. Investing in product knowledge and actively seeking further training provides a competitive edge. Flexibility and openness to new tasks also support career growth within the industry.
Key facts about Salespeople, internal sales, building materials, etc.
- Education level: High school education, often supplemented with internal training
- Work environment: Indoors, in stores or offices, sometimes customer visits
- Typical work arrangement: Full-time, sometimes shifts or seasonal variations
- Demand: Moderate, approximately 550 job openings in Sweden
- Special skills: Product knowledge in building materials and good communication skills
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a salesperson in building materials, opportunities open to advance to roles such as sales manager, store manager, or specialist within a specific product area. Some choose to move into project management or technical advising, especially if they have a background in construction technology. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, demand for corporate salespeople is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with a balanced recruitment situation. This means there is neither a shortage nor an oversupply of labor, though local and skill-specific variations may occur. For those investing in further education and networking, good prospects exist for continued career development within the industry.
Frequently asked questions about Salespeople, internal sales, building materials, etc.
- What does a Salesperson, internal salesperson, building materials, etc. earn?
- The average salary is 51 300 SEK/month, but it varies depending on experience, employer, and education level.
- How has the salary development been for salespeople in building materials?
- Salaries have increased by approximately 9.8% over the past three years, and the trend remains positive.
- What education is required to become a salesperson in building materials?
- Typically, a high school education with a focus on trade, sales, or construction, often supplemented with internal training.
- Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
- Yes, women earn on average 89% of what men do in the profession.
- What is the state of the labor market?
- Demand is moderate with a balance between supply and demand; there are approximately 550 job openings in Sweden.
- What are the highest and lowest salaries for the profession?
- The highest salary is 61,500 SEK (male, private sector, higher education) and the lowest is 38,200 SEK (female, public sector).
- What benefits are common?
- Occupational pension, wellness contributions, insurance, bonuses, and employee discounts are common benefits.
