Glass worker, manufacturing, machine

What does a glassworker in manufacturing and machinery do? – Tasks and work environment

A glassworker in manufacturing and machinery mainly works with monitoring and controlling machines that produce glass products, such as windows, bottles, or glass blocks. Tasks often include machine operation, quality control, and basic maintenance of equipment. It also involves supervising production lines, fixing minor faults, and making adjustments to ensure the final products meet quality standards. The work environment is characterized by factory settings where noise levels can be high, and safety regulations are important, especially due to handling heavy machinery and high temperatures during glass processing.

Salary development over time

The salary for glassworkers in manufacturing and machinery has developed steadily over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 34,400 SEK per month, which increased slightly to 33 700 SEK in 2023. Between 2023 and 2024, there was a clearer increase, with a current average salary of 37 100 SEK. This represents an approximate 10% increase during the period, which is slightly higher than the average for similar industrial occupations. This trend can partly be explained by increased demand for skilled machine operators and a generally higher salary level within the manufacturing industry. Additionally, shortages of experienced operators and technological changes in production have contributed to salary increases.

Glassworker in manufacturing and machinery salary – full overview

• Average salary: 37 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 35,400 SEK/month (women), 36,900 SEK/month (men)
• Highest salary: 39,000 SEK/month (men), 35,700 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 223 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 95 % of what men do (35,700 SEK versus 37 400 SEK)
• Regional differences: No specific figures available

Education and qualifications

To work as a glassworker in manufacturing and machinery, a high school education with a focus on industrial, technical, or production subjects is usually required. Many employers view experience from similar manufacturing environments or machine operator roles positively, but new hires often receive internal training and onboarding on-site. Certifications and courses in work environment and safety can be advantageous, especially when working with heavy or advanced machinery.

• High school education: Technical program or industrial technical program (3 years)
• On-the-job training: Introduction and machine-specific training are often provided by the employer
• Certifications: Work environment and safety training may be required
• Practical experience: Experience from industry is advantageous
• Prerequisites: Technical interest and precision are highly valued

Common benefits and compensations

Workers in the glass industry are usually offered benefits such as collective agreement-based occupational pension, additional insurance coverage, wellness allowances, and sometimes subsidized lunch or work clothing. Many employers also provide opportunities for skills development and bonuses upon reaching production targets.

Competition and challenges

The profession as a glassworker in manufacturing and machinery involves some competition, especially among younger and newly graduated individuals without prior experience. Since the occupation is part of a broader occupational group, specific forecasts are sometimes lacking, but generally demand is considered stable. Challenges can arise from technological changes, automation, and higher requirements for production quality, which demand increased flexibility and technical knowledge. Physically demanding tasks and shift work can also be challenging for some. Staying updated on new machines and methods is important to remain competitive.

Tips for those wanting to become a glassworker in manufacturing and machinery

To succeed as a glassworker in manufacturing and machinery, a genuine technical interest is beneficial, as daily work often revolves around machine operation and troubleshooting. Attention to detail is important because small mistakes can affect product quality, so following routines and safety regulations is recommended. Since the work environment can be noisy and fast-paced, stress resilience is an advantage, and practicing working focused under pressure is wise. A willingness to learn new machines and techniques makes it easier to adapt to changes in production and increases chances of advancement. Being cooperative and communicating clearly with colleagues facilitates teamwork around production. Last but not least, responsibility is crucial, as safety must always be prioritized in the factory.

Key facts about glassworkers in manufacturing and machinery

• Education level: High school education in technical or industrial fields
• Work environment: Factory, often shift work and noisy environment
• Common employment type: Permanent employment, sometimes temporary or hourly work
• Demand: 1,437 available jobs within the occupational group
• Special skills: Machine handling and safety routines

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years as a glassworker in manufacturing and machinery, opportunities exist to advance to supervisor, production technician, or quality manager within the industry. Some choose to broaden their skills through further education in automation or production technology, which can lead to more specialized roles. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, detailed future forecasts for the occupation are lacking, but the occupational group reports a steady number of available positions and reasonable demand for labor. Technological developments within the industry may increase the need for operators with good machine skills and adaptability.

Frequently asked questions about glassworkers in manufacturing and machinery

• What does a glassworker in manufacturing and machinery earn?
  - The average salary is 37 100 SEK per month, with variations between 35,400 SEK and 39,000 SEK.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 95 % of what men do (35,700 SEK versus 37 400 SEK).
• What education is required to become a glassworker?
  - High school education with a focus on technical or industrial subjects is recommended.
• What is the work environment like?
  - Work is mostly carried out in factory settings with shift work and high noise levels.
• Are there many job openings in this field?
  - Yes, there are 1,437 available jobs within the process and machine operator group.
• What are the career opportunities?
  - Opportunities include advancement to supervisor, technician, or quality manager.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Attention to detail, technical interest, and responsibility are especially valuable.