Image that illustrates Holes

Holes

38 400 kr

Concrete workers

34 200 - 39 600 kr / month

Women earn 89% of what men do.

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What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Holes

Average salary 38 400 kr
Males 38 500 kr
Females 34 200 kr

What does a core drill operator do? – Tasks and work environment

A core drill operator primarily works with drilling, sawing, and chiseling in concrete, stone, and other hard building materials. The profession is central within the construction and civil engineering sector, where there is a high demand for openings for installations, windows, doors, or ventilation. Work is often carried out on construction sites, both indoors and outdoors, which can mean a variable and sometimes demanding work environment. Core drill operators use advanced machinery and tools, often in noisy and dusty environments, requiring high safety standards and precision.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, core drillers' salaries have steadily increased. In 2022, the average salary was 35,700 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 36 500 SEK in 2023. The latest figure for 2024 shows that the average salary is now 38 400 SEK, which corresponds to an increase of about 7.6% over the period. This positive salary trend reflects a high demand for skilled workers in core drilling, where labor shortages and increased construction activity drive up wages. The level of education and technical skills required to perform the work safely and efficiently also contribute to maintaining high salary levels. The trend indicates that the profession remains attractive from a salary perspective for those considering a career in construction and civil engineering.

Core drill operator salary – complete overview

  • Average salary: 38 400 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 34,200 SEK/month
  • Highest salary: 39,600 SEK/month
  • Hourly wage: 231 SEK
  • Gender pay gap: Women earn 89 % of men's salary
  • Men's average salary: 38 500 SEK/month
  • Women's average salary: 34,200 SEK/month
  • Regional differences: Highest salary (39,600 SEK) in regional sector, lowest (34,200 SEK) in various sectors

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a core drill operator usually involves attending the high school construction and civil engineering program, with specialization in concrete work. Practical experience is highly valued, and many employers also look for certifications and safety courses during recruitment. There are also opportunities to specialize through courses or further education to handle advanced equipment and work environment risks.

  • High school education: Construction and civil engineering program, 3 years
  • Certifications: Safety training, e.g., hot work and use of diamond tools
  • Internship: Workplace-based internship during education or apprenticeship
  • Prerequisites: Good physical condition and basic technical understanding
  • Tips: Choose specialization in concrete or core drilling for better job prospects

Core drill operators often work in teams and at construction sites where multiple trades collaborate. The ability to quickly solve problems when unexpected obstacles arise is a valuable trait in daily work.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensation

Common benefits for core drillers include per diems when working away from home, access to work clothing and protective equipment, and compensation for unsociable hours. Some employers also offer wellness allowances and opportunities for further training within the company.

Competition and challenges

The profession of core drilling is characterized by high demand, but also challenges. Competition for jobs is relatively low due to a significant shortage of qualified core drillers in many parts of the country. Physically demanding tasks and exposure to noise and dust mean that the work environment can be tough, requiring good health and proper protective gear. Technological changes and new machinery also necessitate ongoing skills development. For those willing to invest in training and safety, there are good opportunities for employment and career growth.

Tips for those who want to become a core drill operator

To succeed as a core drill operator, it is good to be practically inclined and have a problem-solving attitude. Precision is crucial, as work often takes place in sensitive environments requiring accuracy. Good physical fitness makes heavy lifting and working in uncomfortable positions easier. Teamwork skills are appreciated, as core drillers often work in teams and need to communicate with other trades. An interest in technology and machinery is also an asset, especially when handling new tools or methods. Flexibility and the ability to adapt quickly to different work environments are important qualities that make daily work easier. Finally, being responsible and following safety routines carefully helps minimize risks in the profession.

Key facts about core drillers

  • Education level: High school education, construction and civil engineering program
  • Work environment: Construction sites, both indoor and outdoor
  • Demand: Very high, labor shortage
  • Typical employment: Full-time, sometimes shift work
  • Special skills: Handling diamond tools and safety routines

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a core drill operator, there are opportunities to take on greater responsibilities, such as site supervisor, machine operator, or trainer in concrete core drilling. With the right experience, it is also possible to specialize in advanced drilling techniques or start your own business within the industry. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast for the concrete worker group, job opportunities remain very good, and the shortage of competent core drillers is expected to persist in the coming years. The forecast indicates unchanged demand, providing stability and secure employment opportunities for those choosing this career. Currently, there are 379 job openings in the profession on the Swedish labor market.

Frequently asked questions about core drillers

  • What does a core drill operator earn?
    - The average salary is 38 400 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience and region.
  • How does one become a core drill operator?
    - Most commonly, by attending the construction and civil engineering program at high school and then gaining practical experience or an apprenticeship.
  • Are there job opportunities for core drillers?
    - Yes, demand is high and there is a shortage of qualified core drillers in many parts of the country.
  • What are the occupational health and safety risks?
    - The work involves noise, dust, heavy lifting, and working in exposed environments, requiring protective equipment and safety routines.
  • What is required to succeed in the profession?
    - Good physical condition, technical interest, precision, and teamwork skills are important qualities.
  • How does salary development look?
    - Salaries have increased by about 7.6% over the past three years, reflecting high demand for skilled workers.
  • What are the most common benefits?
    - Per diems, work clothing, protective equipment, and sometimes wellness allowances are common benefits.

Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Holes is 39600 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Regional sector with a upper secondary education, maximum 2 years. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 34200 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Holes is 34200 kr. This salary belongs to a woman also working in the Multiple sectors. The lowest salary for a man in this profession is 36800 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
18-24 33800 kr 34600 kr
25-34 36200 kr 36900 kr
35-44 39000 kr 40000 kr
45-54 38300 kr 39400 kr
55-64 40100 kr 40900 kr
Snitt 89% 37600 kr 38400 kr
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession Holes has the SSYK code 7113, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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