Evaporation operator

What does an evaporation operator do? – Tasks and work environment

An evaporation operator is responsible for monitoring and controlling evaporation processes within the chemical industry. Tasks include inspecting machines and process equipment such as evaporators, heat exchangers, and pumps to ensure production follows set parameters. Quality checks, troubleshooting, and maintenance of equipment are often part of the daily work. The work environment is typically industrial, involving factory settings where safety procedures are central and shift work may be required depending on production needs.

Salary development over time

The salary development for evaporation operators has been stable and positive over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,500 SEK per month, increasing to 39 900 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary is 40 500 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 8% over the period. This trend reflects a growing demand for skilled process controllers in the chemical industry and general salary adjustments within the tech and industrial sectors. Salaries are also influenced by education level and experience, with those having longer education and more years in the field often earning higher within the salary range. Both labor market needs and technical requirements have contributed to strengthening the salary development of the profession.

Evaporation operator salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 40 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 37,500 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, short post-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 42,200 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, post-secondary education of 3 years or more)
• Hourly wage (average): 243 SEK
• Women earn: 37 700 SEK/month (92% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 41 100 SEK/month

Education and qualifications

Employers typically seek evaporation operators with technical high school education or equivalent knowledge in process and chemical engineering. Post-secondary education in relevant fields, such as process technology or chemical industry, is often advantageous. Practical experience from industrial operation and supervision is highly valuable and can sometimes outweigh formal education. Certifications and internal courses are common, especially for work involving specialized equipment or hazardous substances.

• High school education: Technical program or industrial technology program (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: YH-education or university education in process technology (2–3 years)
• Certifications: Industrial safety training and chemical handling
• Internship: Internship or trainee programs are recommended
• Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of chemistry, technology, and IT systems

Common benefits and compensations

Evaporation operators are often offered benefits such as shift and overtime allowances, wellness contributions, work clothing, and subsidized lunches. Employee insurances, occupational pensions, and opportunities for skill development through internal or external courses are also common. Some employers may also offer bonuses or extra compensation for work during inconvenient hours.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as an evaporation operator varies depending on the region and industry cycle. Technological advancements in the chemical industry impose increased demands on digital skills and the ability to manage advanced control systems. Safety standards are high, and continuous updates to workplace legislation require ongoing training. The tasks can be monotonous but demand precision and a sense of responsibility, which can be challenging over time. Limited data makes it difficult to predict future demand, but currently, the number of job openings in the profession is good.

Tips for those who want to become evaporation operators

To succeed as an evaporation operator, it's important to be meticulous and responsible, as the work requires constant monitoring of processes and equipment. Analytical skills are crucial for quickly identifying and solving technical problems. Good teamwork skills facilitate collaboration with engineers and technicians. Flexibility and adaptability are appreciated, especially when working shifts or during production changes. An interest in technology and a willingness to learn new systems are advantageous as digitalization increases. Being resilient under stress is also beneficial, as the work environment can sometimes be intense. Finally, initiative and independence are valuable for handling unexpected situations safely and efficiently.

Key facts about evaporation operators

• Education level: High school or post-secondary education in technology or process engineering
• Work environment: Industrial environment focusing on safety and shift work
• Typical employment: Full-time, often shift work
• Demand: 481 job openings within the profession (May 2024)
• Special skills: Process monitoring, chemical engineering, and digital control systems

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an evaporation operator, opportunities exist to advance to senior roles such as process manager, supervisor, or production planner within the chemical industry. Further education can lead to specialized positions in process development or quality assurance. According to the Employment Service’s forecast for process controllers in the chemical industry, there is no specific assessment for this exact field, but currently, there are 481 job openings, indicating good employment prospects. Developments in automation and digitalization also open roles in technical maintenance and process support. Those wishing to broaden their skills can consider related positions in operations technology or production engineering.

Common questions about evaporation operators

• What does an evaporation operator earn?
  - The average salary for an evaporation operator is 40 500 SEK per month.
• How do salary differences between women and men look?
  - Women earn on average 37 700 SEK, which corresponds to 92% of men's salary at 41 100 SEK.
• What education is required to become an evaporation operator?
  - High school education in technology or industry is common, but post-secondary education in process technology is advantageous.
• What is the work environment like?
  - The work environment is industrial with high safety standards and often shift work.
• Are there many job openings for evaporation operators?
  - Currently, there are 481 job openings within the profession of process controllers in the chemical industry.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Common benefits include shift allowances, wellness contributions, work clothing, and occupational pension.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for an evaporation operator?
  - The highest salary is 42,200 SEK/month and the lowest is 37,500 SEK/month depending on education and gender.