Interior fitter

What does an interior installer do? – tasks and work environment

An interior installer works with assembling, installing, and sometimes customizing fixed and loose interior furnishings in homes, offices, shops, and public environments. Tasks often include installing kitchens, wardrobes, shelving systems, wall panels, and other wood-based interior details. The work is commonly performed on-site at the customer’s location and involves both independent work and collaboration with other trades such as electricians, carpenters, and painters. The work environment can range from construction sites to finished premises, requiring precision, physical endurance, and attention to detail. Safety and ergonomics are important, as the work often involves heavy lifting and working with tools.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salaries for interior installers have steadily increased. In 2022, the average salary was 30,900 SEK per month, rising to 32 000 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the salary has continued upward and now stands at 33 300 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 7.8% over three years. This positive trend is largely due to sustained high demand for skilled carpenters and interior installers, along with an increased focus on quality and customized solutions within the construction and interior design industry. The market has also been influenced by an increased number of projects in both private and public sectors, which has heightened competition for qualified personnel and driven up wages.

Interior installer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 32,100 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 33,800 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 200 SEK
• Women: 32 400 SEK/month (97% of men's salary)
• Men: 33 500 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salaries can vary depending on the region, but generally fall within the range of 32,100–33,800 SEK/month.

Education and qualifications

The pathway into the profession of interior installer often goes through high school programs in construction and civil engineering with a focus on carpentry, but there are also shorter vocational training courses and opportunities for internal training with some employers. Practical experience and technical understanding are highly valued, and many employers require documented experience in assembly or carpentry. Further training, certifications, and specialized courses in ergonomics and safety can be advantageous.

• High school education: Construction and civil engineering program, with a focus on carpentry (3 years)
• Post-secondary courses: Short vocational training in assembly or furniture carpentry
• Practical training: Often a requirement for employment, such as apprenticeships or internships
• Certifications: For example, safety and ergonomics training
• Prerequisites: Technical interest and good physical ability

Common benefits and compensations

Typical benefits for interior installers include occupational pension, wellness allowance, work clothing, tools allowance, and in some cases company cars. Many employers also offer training and skills development, as well as bonuses based on projects or performance.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for interior installers is characterized by a paradoxical situation where there is both high unemployment and recruitment difficulties. Despite many trained professionals in the field, employers struggle to find candidates with the right experience and specialized skills. The ability to work independently and deliver high quality under tight deadlines is crucial, especially since projects often have strict timeframes. Additionally, the profession requires good physical condition and endurance, which can be challenging long-term. However, the demand for skilled interior installers is expected to remain high, offering good employment opportunities for those with the right profile.

Tips for those wishing to become interior installers

To succeed as an interior installer, it is beneficial to combine precision with practical problem-solving skills, as the work often involves finding creative solutions on-site. An interest in technology helps in understanding and working with various materials and tools. Being service-oriented is also important, as the job involves significant customer contact and expectations of professional conduct. Flexibility and the ability to quickly adapt to new environments can make daily work easier and more stimulating. Physical endurance and strength are advantages, since the work often involves heavy lifting and working in various positions. For those curious and eager to develop, there are good opportunities to broaden skills through further training and specialization. Collaboration skills and a positive attitude towards colleagues and clients are also highly valued in the profession.

Key facts about interior installers

• Education level: High school education, often supplemented with practical training
• Work environment: Varies – from construction sites to finished premises
• Demand: Great opportunities for nationwide employment
• Gender distribution: Predominantly men, but the proportion of women is increasing
• Special skills: Assembly, carpentry, and customer contact

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession as an interior installer, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as supervisor, project manager, or specialist in areas like kitchen installation or retail interior. Some choose to start their own business as subcontractors, while others pursue further education in construction or interior design. The Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast indicates that job opportunities for carpenters and interior installers are large nationwide, with demand expected to remain unchanged over five years. However, there is some competition, as the recruitment situation is characterized by both high unemployment and difficulty finding the right skills. With 1,437 job openings in the field, employment prospects remain good for those with relevant education and experience.

Frequently asked questions about interior installers

• What is an interior installer’s average salary?
  – An interior installer has an average monthly salary of 33 300 SEK.
• What are the lowest and highest salaries for an interior installer?
  – The lowest salary is 32,100 SEK and the highest is 33,800 SEK per month.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  – Yes, men earn on average 33 500 SEK while women earn 32 400 SEK, which is 97% of men's salary.
• What education is required to become an interior installer?
  – High school education in construction and civil engineering, often with a focus on carpentry, along with practical training is usually required.
• What are the future prospects for interior installers?
  – Job opportunities are considered large nationwide, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What work environments are common for interior installers?
  – The work environment varies from construction sites to finished offices, shops, and private homes.
• What are common benefits for interior installers?
  – Occupational pension, wellness allowance, work clothing, tools allowance, and sometimes company cars are common benefits.