Sheet metal workers, industry

What does a heavy sheet metal worker in the industry do? – Tasks and work environment

A heavy sheet metal worker in the industry primarily works with processing, assembling, and repairing larger steel structures and sheet metal components. The profession includes manufacturing and installation of bridges, tanks, machinery structures, and other heavy industrial components. Work often takes place in a workshop environment but can also involve on-site assembly at customer locations, requiring flexibility and good physical ability. Heavy sheet metal workers use various tools and machines, including welding equipment and bending tools, and the work environment can be noisy and physically demanding, with safety regulations and heavy lifting involved.

Salary development over time

The profession of heavy sheet metal workers in the industry has experienced a clear positive salary trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 32,800 SEK per month, increasing to 33 900 SEK in 2023 and finally reaching 36 500 SEK in 2024. This represents an increase of approximately 11.3 % over three years, which is a relatively strong development compared to many other professions within the industry. This salary increase can be partly explained by ongoing demand for skilled labor in steel construction and industrial assembly, as well as an increased focus on technical competence and safety requirements. The shortage of specialized heavy sheet metal workers has also contributed to rising wages, especially in regions with major industrial investments.

Heavy sheet metal worker in industry salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 36 500 SEK/month
• Lowest/Highest salary: Data unavailable
• Hourly wage: 219 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Men earn 36 600 SEK, data for women is unavailable
• Regional differences: Data unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a heavy sheet metal worker in the industry, a vocational upper secondary education in industrial technology or sheet metal work is usually required. Practical experience is highly valued, and many employers prefer candidates who have completed an apprenticeship or similar practical training. Additional certifications in welding and safety can be advantageous, as well as knowledge of reading technical drawings and machine handling.

• Upper secondary education: Industrial technology program, 3 years
• Certifications: Welding licenses and hot work certificates
• Practical training: Apprenticeship or internship during education
• Prerequisites: Basic mathematics and technical interest
• Tip: Choose an education focused on industrial sheet metal processing for the best match

Common benefits and compensations

Heavy sheet metal workers in the industry are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, overtime pay, and insurance. Other common compensations may include wellness allowances, work clothing, and sometimes bonuses linked to projects or production targets. Employers may also offer further training and certification opportunities to enhance employee skills.

Competition and challenges

The job market for heavy sheet metal workers in the industry is characterized by relatively good availability of jobs, but competition can vary depending on region and economic climate. Some areas with extensive industrial presence experience shortages of qualified workers, while competition is tougher in other parts of the country. Challenges in the profession include high safety standards, physical endurance, and technical precision. Rapid technological development and automation require professionals to continuously update their skills. Seasonal variations and economic fluctuations can also impact demand in certain segments.

Tips for aspiring heavy sheet metal workers in the industry

To succeed as a heavy sheet metal worker in the industry, it is beneficial to have a combination of technical interest and precision, especially since the work often involves interpreting drawings and working with advanced machinery. A strong safety mindset is crucial, as the work environment demands careful adherence to instructions and protective routines. Being resilient and maintaining good physical condition facilitates the often heavy and monotonous tasks, while problem-solving skills help in unexpected challenges. Showing initiative and willingness to learn new techniques or certifications can open more doors and provide advantages in the job market. Good teamwork skills are important, as work is often done in teams, and a positive attitude towards shift work is often an advantage in the industry. Lastly, flexibility and adaptability are valuable since tasks and environments can vary greatly between employers and projects.

Key facts about heavy sheet metal workers in the industry

• Education level: Vocational upper secondary education (industrial technology/sheet metal work)
• Work environment: Workshop, industrial environment, and on-site assembly
• Demand: 1,437 available jobs in 2024
• Special skills: Welding, reading drawings, and machine handling

Career paths and future prospects

After gaining several years of experience, opportunities for advancement include roles in supervision, project management, or specialization in welding and assembly. Some choose to further their education to become technicians or designers, while others may progress to positions such as site manager or safety coordinator. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, there is no specific forecast for heavy sheet metal workers, but within the broader group of "steel construction assemblers and heavy sheet metal workers," many vacancies exist, indicating stable demand. Automation and technological development may change skill requirements over time, but the need for qualified industrial workers is expected to remain strong.

Frequently asked questions about heavy sheet metal workers in the industry

• What does a heavy sheet metal worker in the industry earn?
  - The average salary is 36 500 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 219 SEK.
• Are there salary differences between genders?
  - Men earn an average of 36 600 SEK, but current statistics for women are unavailable.
• What education is required to become a heavy sheet metal worker in the industry?
  - A vocational upper secondary education in industrial technology or sheet metal work is recommended, often supplemented with certifications.
• What does the job market look like for heavy sheet metal workers in the industry?
  - There are 1,437 available jobs, indicating strong demand.
• What tasks does a heavy sheet metal worker perform?
  - Assembly, welding, and repair of large steel structures and industrial components.
• What personal qualities are important in the profession?
  - Precision, technical interest, safety awareness, and good physical condition are especially valuable.
• What development opportunities are available?
  - Roles in supervision, project management, or further training as a technician or designer are possible paths.