Cutter, metal

What does a metal milling machine operator do? – Tasks and work environment

A metal milling machine operator works with machining metal workpieces using milling machines, often in workshop environments or industrial production facilities. Tasks include setting up, monitoring, and controlling machines, as well as performing precision work according to drawings and technical specifications. The work requires accuracy, technical knowledge, and adherence to safety routines. The environment can be noisy and involve shift work, but modern facilities often have improved ergonomics and safety measures. Collaboration with other machine operators, engineers, and maintenance staff is common.

Salary development over time

The salary for a metal milling machine operator has shown stable and positive growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,000 SEK per month, increasing to 34 000 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary continued to rise to 35 200 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 6.7% over three years. This development reflects ongoing demand for skilled metal workers, as well as higher demands on technical skills and automation. Salary increases are also driven by labor shortages in the industry, especially in regions with large industrial activity. Despite positive trends, forecasts indicate that demand may decrease in the long term due to technological advancements and increased automation.

Metal milling machine operator salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 35 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,400 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, pre-high school education)
• Highest salary: 36,100 SEK/month (male, various sectors, post-secondary education less than 3 years)
• Hourly wage: 212 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Men earn 35 400 SEK/month, women 34 100 SEK/month (women earn 96% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salaries vary depending on industry and region, with higher wages in areas with large industrial production.

Education and qualifications

To work as a metal milling machine operator, a vocational education in industrial technology or workshop engineering at the high school level is usually required, often supplemented with practical training and certifications. Some employers also require experience with CNC-controlled machines or further training in the field. Opportunities for further education and specialization exist through workplace courses and external training providers.

• High school education: Industrial technology programs, 3 years
• Further education: CNC technology, automation, or specialized courses
• Certifications: Welding or machine operation certificates as needed
• Practical training: Workplace-based internships during education
• Prerequisites: Basic mathematics, technical skills, and reading technical drawings

Common benefits and compensations

Metal milling machine operators are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, insurance, wellness allowances, and sometimes bonus or performance-based pay systems. Shift work may include shift premiums, and in some cases, additional vacation days or training allowances are provided by the employer.

Competition and challenges

The competition in the profession is currently moderate to low, as demand for qualified operators and machine operators is high and there is a labor shortage in several regions. At the same time, the profession faces challenges related to technological development and automation, where those who do not further their education risk falling behind. The ability to quickly adopt new technology and digital tools is increasingly important. In the longer term, demand is expected to decrease, which may increase competition for the most attractive positions. The role also requires good physical endurance and the ability to work accurately under sometimes stressful conditions.

Tips for those who want to become a metal milling machine operator

To succeed as a metal milling machine operator, it is good to have a genuine interest in technology and the ability to work systematically. Precision is essential for interpreting drawings and handling machines with high accuracy, while problem-solving skills help quickly find solutions during machine stops or production deviations. Good teamwork skills facilitate communication with colleagues and maintenance staff, while flexibility makes it easier to adapt to changing tasks and shift schedules. Continuously furthering your education and staying updated on new techniques provides a competitive advantage, especially in an industry where automation and digitalization rapidly change the work environment.

Key facts about Metal Milling Machine Operators

• Education level: Vocational high school education (industrial technology)
• Work environment: Industrial workshop, often shift work
• Average salary: 35 200 SEK/month
• Demand: Large labor shortage, but decreasing forecast long-term
• Job openings: 1,437 positions in the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, opportunities exist to advance to roles such as supervisor, production technician, or quality technician, especially if further education in automation or mechanical engineering is pursued. Statistics from the Employment Service show that job opportunities are currently strong, but demand for metal milling machine operators is expected to decline over the next five years due to increased automation and technological development. Despite this, there is currently a shortage of qualified personnel, and those who stay updated on industry technological advances have good prospects for employment and career development. Related professions include CNC operator, machine setter, and maintenance technician.

Common questions about Metal Milling Machine Operators

• What does a metal milling machine operator earn?
  - A metal milling machine operator has an average salary of 35 200 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, education, and region.
• What education is required to become a metal milling machine operator?
  - Usually, a vocational education in industrial technology or workshop engineering at the high school level is required, often with practical training and certifications.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn an average of 35 400 SEK, while women earn 34 100 SEK, which means women earn approximately 96% of men's salaries.
• What is the job market like for metal milling machine operators?
  - There is a current shortage of qualified operators, but demand is expected to decrease over five years due to automation.
• What benefits are common in the profession?
  - Benefits include occupational pension, insurance, wellness allowances, and sometimes shift premiums.
• What are the job duties of a metal milling machine operator?
  - Tasks include setting up and monitoring milling machines, machining metal parts, and inspecting quality according to drawings.
• Is further training available?
  - Yes, further education in CNC technology, automation, and mechanical engineering is common and can provide more career opportunities.