Jig drills

What does a Jiggborrare do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Jiggborrare mainly works in the industry, drilling, milling, and processing metal components with high precision. Specialized equipment, called jigs, is used to ensure that holes and cuts are placed exactly according to drawings. The work environment is often factory settings where machinery and tools are handled daily, requiring both technical knowledge and accuracy. Jiggborrare often collaborate with other machine operators and quality inspectors to ensure production meets high standards and safety regulations.

Salary development over time

The salary for Jiggborrare has seen steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,000 SEK, which increased to 34 000 SEK in 2023 and further to 35 200 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 6.7% over three years, slightly above the general wage development in the manufacturing sector. Factors driving this increase include continued high demand for skilled machine operators, increased technical complexity, and ongoing skills shortages in the labor market. Meanwhile, automation and technological development are beginning to influence the role, which may also affect future salary levels. Despite a forecast of decreased demand in the longer term, the shortage of experienced Jiggborrare has pushed wages upward recently.

Jiggborrare salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 35 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,400 SEK/month (female, private sector, less than 9 years of education)
• Highest salary: 36,100 SEK/month (male, post-secondary education less than 3 years)
• Hourly wage: 212 SEK/hour (based on 166 working hours/month)
• Gender differences: Men earn 35 400 SEK; women 34 100 SEK (women earn 96% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data varies, but higher salaries are often seen in metropolitan regions and areas with many industrial companies

Education and qualifications

To work as a Jiggborrare, a high school education in industrial technology or equivalent is usually required, often with a focus on mechanical engineering or metal processing. Practical experience is highly valued, and many employers view previous internships or trainee programs positively. Further training in CNC technology or specialized courses in precision machining can strengthen competitiveness in the job market.

• High school education: Industrial technology program, 3 years
• Certifications: CNC or machine operator certificates
• Internships: Often 6–12 months in industrial companies
• Prerequisites: Basic mathematics and technology
• Further training: Courses in advanced machine use or quality control

Common benefits and compensation

Jiggborrare are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, extra vacation, wellness allowance, and opportunities for on-the-job training. Shift and overtime pay are common, especially at larger industrial companies, along with insurance and sometimes bonuses linked to production goals.

Challenges and competition

The job market for Jiggborrare is characterized by high demand and a shortage of skills, making it relatively easy to find employment today. However, the profession is gradually affected by technological development and automation, which may reduce the need for traditional operators in the future. Competition could increase, especially for those without further education or specialized skills. Additional challenges include the work environment, which can be noisy and physically demanding, as well as the requirements for precision and responsibility. The ability to quickly learn new technologies and work independently is highly valued by employers.

Tips for those who want to become Jiggborrare

To succeed as a Jiggborrare, it is beneficial to combine technical interest with accuracy and responsibility. Early internships and apprenticeship placements are recommended, as practical experience is highly valued in hiring. Being solution-oriented makes it easier to handle machine failures and quality assurance under pressure. A structured work approach and good teamwork skills facilitate collaboration with colleagues and improve the work environment. Flexibility is an important trait, as tasks may vary with production needs and technological development. Continuously updating your skills, for example through courses in CNC or new machine technology, enhances opportunities for advancement. Finally, independence is appreciated, making it easier to take responsibility for both production and machine maintenance.

Key facts about Jiggborrare

• Education level: High school education in industrial technology or equivalent
• Work environment: Industrial setting with machinery handling and high safety standards
• Demand: Large skills shortage, but long-term decline expected
• Job openings: 1,437 within the group of machine setters and operators, metal work
• Special skills: Experience in precision machining and machine maintenance highly valued

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years as a Jiggborrare, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as supervisor, production technician, or quality manager within the industry. Some choose to further their education as CNC operators or technical specialists in machine maintenance, which can lead to higher salaries and greater responsibility. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the job market today is very good, with a significant shortage of skilled metalworking machine operators. In the longer term, demand is expected to decrease mainly due to increased automation and technological innovations in the industry. Those who stay updated and develop their skills will still have good opportunities for employment and career growth.

Frequently asked questions about Jiggborrare

• What is the average salary of a Jiggborrare?
  - The average salary for a Jiggborrare is 35 200 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a Jiggborrare?
  - Typically, a high school education in industrial technology or equivalent is required, sometimes also certification for machine operators.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn on average 35 400 SEK and women 34 100 SEK, which means women earn 96% of men's salaries.
• What is the job market like for Jiggborrare?
  - There is currently a high demand for Jiggborrare, but in the longer term, demand is expected to decrease due to automation.
• What career opportunities are available for Jiggborrare?
  - After a few years, one can advance to roles such as supervisor, production technician, or further training as a CNC operator.
• What does working with jigs involve?
  - It involves using specialized tools to drill and process metal components with high precision according to drawings.
• What benefits are common for Jiggborrare?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, shift and overtime pay, and collective insurance agreements.