Insulators

What does an Insulator do? – Tasks and Work Environment

An Insulator works with installing and mounting insulation on pipes, ventilation ducts, tanks, and other technical installations in construction and industry. The purpose of the work is to reduce energy losses, protect against fire, dampen sound, and improve the working environment. Tasks often include measuring, cutting, adjusting, and mounting insulation materials, as well as sealing and sometimes covering the insulation. Work is performed both indoors and outdoors, often at construction sites or industrial settings where working at heights and safety are considerations. The work can be physically demanding, and the work environment varies depending on the project’s nature and scope.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, Insulators have experienced a clear increase in salary. In 2022, the average salary was 32,700 SEK per month, which increased to 38 500 SEK in 2023 and reached 40 000 SEK in 2024. The total increase from 2022 to 2024 amounts to approximately 22%, which is significantly higher than many other trades within the construction sector during the same period. The strong salary growth can be explained by continued high demand for insulation installers, a shortage of qualified workforce, and increased requirements for energy efficiency in new and renovation projects. Union agreements and regional project booms have also contributed to pushing wages higher. Despite this, differences depending on region and employer are reported, but the trend indicates a stable and attractive salary development within the profession.

Insulator salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 40 000 SEK/month
• Lowest/Highest salary: Data not available, but variations occur depending on experience and region
• Hourly wage: 240 SEK/hour (based on 166 working hours/month)
• Gender differences: Only data for men (40 000 SEK); data for women is unavailable
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on work location and project scope

Education and qualifications

To work as an Insulator, a high school education in construction and civil engineering is usually required, preferably with a focus on insulation installation. Many employers also require practical experience, and it is common to start as an apprentice before full employment. Certification and specialized courses in areas such as fire insulation or sheet metal work can be advantageous and increase employment opportunities. Self-study and online courses are less common, but practical experience is highly valued.

• Education: Construction and civil engineering program with specialization in insulation (3 years)
• Certifications: Examples include training in fire insulation, hot work
• Practical training: Often an apprenticeship period at the workplace
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition and technical interest
• Tips for choosing: Select a program with strong links to working life and practical training

Common benefits and compensations

Insulators are often covered by collective agreements that entitle them to overtime pay, holiday pay, and occupational pension. Additional benefits may include work clothes, wellness allowances, and sometimes travel allowances for jobs outside the home area. In some cases, bonuses or per diems are offered for longer assignments in other locations.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as an Insulator is assessed as low nationally, with a clear shortage situation according to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts. The job market is characterized by stable demand, but challenges include physically demanding tasks and the need for continuous skills development. Weather-dependent environments and high safety requirements can also demand experience and flexibility. The shortage of trained workers means employers may need to spend more time on internal training and onboarding new employees.

Tips for those who want to become an Insulator

To succeed as an Insulator, it is good to be both practical and precise, as the work requires accuracy in mounting and adjusting insulation materials. Good physical fitness helps, since tasks are often heavy and may involve working at heights or in confined spaces. Flexibility and good teamwork skills are also advantageous, as many projects are carried out in teams and work sites vary. An interest in technology and construction processes provides a solid foundation, especially for interpreting drawings and following technical instructions. It is also important to be solution-oriented and able to quickly adapt to different work environments and materials. Showing initiative and willingness to learn new things is appreciated by employers, especially in an industry where techniques and materials are continuously evolving.

Key facts about Insulators

• Education level: High school education (Construction and civil engineering program)
• Work environment: Varied, often physically demanding and sometimes outdoors
• Demand: Large shortage of trained workers
• Work form: Often full-time, both employed and hourly employment available
• Special skills: Fire insulation and technical insulation are in demand

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience, an Insulator can develop into a supervisor, project manager, or specialist in areas such as fire or technical insulation. Opportunities for advancement are good, especially for those who supplement with further education or certifications. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, the future outlook is stable with continued high demand and shortages in the profession. Over the next five years, demand is expected to remain unchanged, with many available positions across the country. The profession also offers the possibility of starting your own business or specializing in niches such as energy saving or sound insulation.

Frequently asked questions about Insulators

• What does an Insulator earn?
  - The average salary for an Insulator is 40 000 SEK per month.
• Are there differences between men and women in salary?
  - Salary data is only available for men, with an average salary of 40 000 SEK. Data for women is unavailable.
• What are the future prospects for Insulators?
  - Projections show continued high demand and a shortage of trained workers over the next five years.
• What education is required to become an Insulator?
  - High school education in construction and civil engineering, preferably with a focus on insulation, is recommended.
• What kind of work environment do Insulators work in?
  - Work is performed both indoors and outdoors, often at construction sites and industrial environments.
• How much does an Insulator earn per hour?
  - An hourly wage of 240 SEK is common for hourly workers.
• What career development opportunities are available?
  - Insulators can advance to supervisory roles, project managers, or specialists in various types of insulation.