Assembler, plastic

What does a plastic assembler do – tasks and work environment

Plastic assemblers work on joining and assembling plastic components into finished products within the industry. Tasks often include reading and following assembly instructions, handling tools and machines for assembly, and checking that the final products meet quality standards. Much of the work takes place on assembly lines or in production lines where teamwork with colleagues is essential. The work environment is characterized by industrial production, which may involve noise and repetitive tasks. Safety routines and ergonomics are important to reduce the risk of work-related injuries.

Salary development over time

The salary for plastic assemblers has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 29,600 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 30 600 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 32 700 SEK, representing a total increase of about 10.5% over three years. This positive trend can partly be explained by high demand for labor in the industry, as well as increasing technical requirements and production volumes. Wage increases also reflect that employers need to offer competitive salaries to attract and retain staff in a sector with many vacancies and a shortage of experienced assemblers.

Plastic assembler salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 32 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 29,700 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 35,600 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 196 SEK
• Women: 31 100 SEK/month (94% of men's salary)
• Men: 33 100 SEK/month

Education and qualifications

To work as a plastic assembler, usually no formal higher education is required, but a high school education in industrial technology or equivalent is a significant advantage. Employers prefer candidates with industrial work experience, technical understanding, and the ability to follow instructions well. Practical training often takes place at the workplace, and some companies offer internal training or introductory programs for new employees.

• High school education: Industrial technology program, 3 years
• Practical training: Workplace-based learning during education
• Internal training: Company-specific introduction and safety training
• Prerequisites: Passing grades in Swedish and mathematics
• Certification: Some employers require forklift licenses or similar qualifications

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for plastic assemblers often include shift differentials, wellness allowances, work clothing, and sometimes bonuses for meeting production goals. Several employers also offer subsidized lunches, insurance, and pension contributions. Opportunities for further training and skills development are available with larger employers.

Competition and challenges

The profession as a plastic assembler is characterized by high demand for labor, which means good job opportunities nationwide. At the same time, there is a paradox where unemployment within the profession is relatively high, yet employers still experience recruitment difficulties. This may be due to many lacking the right experience or technical knowledge required. Competition for the best jobs increases as more people enter the industry, and work environment issues such as ergonomics and safety are ongoing challenges. Technological development increases requirements for digital understanding and machine skills, making continuous skills development increasingly important.

Tips for those who want to become a plastic assembler

To succeed as a plastic assembler, it is good to be meticulous and patient, as work tasks are often repetitive and require high precision. Showing technical interest and being quick to learn new tasks facilitates career development. Teamwork skills are important since many tasks are performed in teams, and a good work environment contributes to both well-being and efficiency. Flexibility is also valuable, as tasks can vary between workplaces and production needs. Taking the initiative to participate in internal training or obtaining forklift licenses can open more doors and improve conditions. A positive attitude towards shift work and the ability to handle pace changes are also advantageous. Finally, employers value a responsible attitude and willingness to contribute to process improvements.

Key facts about Plastic Assemblers

• Education level: High school (industrial technology program)
• Work environment: Industrial production, often shift work
• Demand: Large job opportunities nationwide
• Typical employment: Full-time, sometimes temporary
• Special skills: Machine operation and quality control

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years as a plastic assembler, there are opportunities to advance to more qualified roles, such as supervisor, quality inspector, or machine operator. Experience in the profession can also lead to specialization in production planning or technical maintenance. According to forecasts from the Employment Service, future prospects remain good, with ample job opportunities and steady demand over the next five years. Despite relatively high unemployment within the profession, recruitment difficulties are reported, indicating that the right skills are highly sought after. Over 1400 job openings are available within the industry, pointing to a dynamic labor market with ongoing new opportunities.

Frequently asked questions about Plastic Assemblers

• What does a plastic assembler earn?
  - The average salary is 32 700 SEK per month, but it can vary depending on experience and region.
• What education is required to become a plastic assembler?
  - A high school education in industrial technology is most common, often supplemented with practical training and internal courses.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 31 100 SEK per month, which is 94% of men's salaries.
• What is the work environment like for a plastic assembler?
  - Work often takes place in an industrial environment with shift work and demands for ergonomics and safety.
• What are the biggest challenges in the profession?
  - Recruitment difficulties, high unemployment within the profession, and requirements for technical skills are some of the main challenges.
• What are the future prospects?
  - Job opportunities are extensive nationwide, and demand is expected to remain unchanged in the coming years.
• What is the highest and lowest salary in the profession?
  - The highest salary is 35,600 SEK and the lowest is 29,700 SEK, depending on gender and sector.