Foundry grinder

What does a foundry grinder do? – Tasks and work environment

A foundry grinder primarily works within industrial manufacturing and is responsible for grinding and processing cast metal objects. The role involves removing unevenness, burrs, and excess material from castings to ensure a smooth and safe surface for further processing or assembly. Tasks are often performed using grinding machines, angle grinders, and hand tools. The work environment is industrial and can be noisy, with high demands on protective equipment and precision, as work is often carried out close to machines and heavy materials. Physical effort and good endurance are important qualities for thriving and avoiding injuries in the role of a foundry grinder.

Salary development over time

The salary for foundry grinders has shown a clear upward trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,100 SEK per month, which increased to 34 200 SEK in 2023. The latest data for 2024 shows an average salary of 36 000 SEK per month. This corresponds to a salary increase of approximately 8.7% over three years. The positive development can be partly explained by increased demand for skilled metal workers in Swedish industry, along with higher technical requirements and safety standards. The shortage of specialized labor in the industrial sector has also contributed to rising wages. Although foundry grinders are part of a broader occupational group, the salary development has been steady and reflects the growing importance of skilled craftsmanship in manufacturing.

Foundry grinder salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 36 000 SEK/month
• Lowest/Highest salary: Salaries vary depending on experience and workplace, but exact ranges are not available in current statistics.
• Hourly wage: 216 SEK/hour (based on 166 working hours/month)
• Gender differences: Men earn on average 36 100 SEK/month; specific data about women is not available
• Regional differences: Data on regional salary differences are limited

Education and qualifications

To work as a foundry grinder, a high school education in industrial technology or similar is usually required, often with specialization in metal processing. Many employers also value practical experience from industry, and it is common to supplement with internal training or certification courses. Safety awareness and good knowledge of occupational safety regulations are important qualifications in the profession.

• Formal education: High school education in industrial technology (3 years)
• Practical training: Workplace-based learning (APL) during high school
• Certifications: Courses in machine safety and occupational health
• Prerequisites: Basic education in technology or industry
• Tips for choosing: Opt for specialization in metal or production technology for better prospects

Common benefits and compensations

Among the most common benefits for foundry grinders are shift allowances, wellness contributions, work clothing, and sometimes access to occupational health services. Other common compensations include overtime pay and bonuses for particularly productive efforts. Some employers also offer training support for further skill development.

Challenges and competition

The role of foundry grinder competes within a broader occupational group where automation solutions and technological development influence the labor market. While there is a constant need for skilled craftsmen, technological advances allow some tasks to be rationalized. At the same time, the industry demands high quality and precision, maintaining the need for experienced foundry grinders. Challenges such as noisy work environments and physical strain require good health and proper protective equipment. Limited data makes it difficult to give precise future forecasts, but the number of job openings indicates ongoing demand for skilled workers, especially as older workers retire. Digitalization and automation may influence the role, but human precision and experience will continue to be valued in manufacturing.

Tips for aspiring foundry grinders

To succeed as a foundry grinder, it’s good to have an eye for detail and be precise, as the quality of work affects safety and the final product. Technical interest and practical skills facilitate learning different grinding techniques and machines, so early familiarization with workshop environments is beneficial. Physical endurance is an asset since the work is often physically demanding and involves heavy lifting. Patience and systematic work help with repetitive tasks and improve accuracy. Good teamwork skills are appreciated, as tasks are often performed in teams or in close collaboration with other trades. Responsibility is also crucial, as safety must always be prioritized. Consider taking extra training or internships to increase your chances on the job market.

Key facts about Foundry Grinder

• Education level: High school education in industrial technology
• Work environment: Industrial, often noisy and physically demanding
• Work form: Shift work and teamwork common
• Demand: 1,437 job openings within the group of grinders and similar roles
• Special skills: Grinding techniques and machine safety

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a foundry grinder, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as supervisor, production technician, or quality inspector within industry. Further education can also open doors to specialized roles in machine processing or maintenance. Future prospects are hard to estimate precisely, as the profession is part of a larger occupational group without separate forecasts according to the Swedish Public Employment Service. However, the large number of job openings within the group of grinders suggests continued demand for skilled personnel, especially as older workers retire. Digitalization and automation may change some aspects of the role, but human expertise and experience will remain valuable in manufacturing.

Common questions about Foundry Grinder

• What is the average salary of a foundry grinder?
  - A foundry grinder has an average salary of 36 000 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development for foundry grinders progressed?
  - Salaries have increased from 33,100 SEK in 2022 to 36 000 SEK in 2024, a rise of about 8.7% over three years.
• What education is required to become a foundry grinder?
  - High school education in industrial technology or similar is most common, often with practical training at the workplace.
• Are there differences in salary between men and women?
  - Men earn on average 36 100 SEK; specific data about women is not available.
• What is the work environment like for a foundry grinder?
  - The work environment is industrial, often noisy and physically demanding, with a focus on safety.
• What are the future prospects?
  - Specific forecasts are lacking, but there are 1,437 job openings within the group of grinders and similar roles.
• What benefits are often offered in this profession?
  - Common benefits include shift allowances, wellness contributions, work clothing, and sometimes training support.