Calender operator, rubber

What does a Calender Operator in rubber do? – Tasks and working environment

A calender operator in rubber is responsible for monitoring and controlling calendering machines used in the production of rubber products. Tasks include preparing machines, feeding raw materials, adjusting temperature and pressure, and checking that the final product meets quality standards. It is important to quickly identify and fix technical faults, and to follow safety regulations carefully since the work often takes place in factories with noise, heat, and heavy machinery. The operator collaborates with technicians and colleagues within production to ensure an efficient and safe work process.

Salary development over time

The salary for a calender operator in rubber has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,200 SEK per month, which increased to 31 400 SEK in 2023 and has continued to 32 600 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to a total increase of about 8% over three years, indicating a positive trend for the profession. Salary increases can partly be explained by increased demand for skilled machine operators in the industry, as well as general adjustments for inflation and working conditions. Despite being part of a broader occupational group, the technical development and demands for precision have contributed to a somewhat higher salary level than the industry average.

Calender Operator, rubber salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 32 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,200 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 33,100 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 196 SEK
• Women: 32,000 SEK/month (97% of men's salary)
• Men: 32 800 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Information on regional differences is limited, but variations may occur depending on the location of the industry.

Education and qualifications

To work as a calender operator in rubber, a high school education with a focus on industry, technology, or production is usually required. Practical experience from manufacturing industries is advantageous and often decisive for employment. Some employers offer internal training and introduction at the workplace to ensure the operator can handle specific machines and tasks.

• High school education: Industrial technology program, 3 years
• Practical training: Workplace-based learning during high school studies
• Internal training: Available at larger employers
• Experience: Previous work in production or machinery handling is often a requirement
• Certifications: Specific safety and machine certificates may be required depending on the workplace

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for calender operators in the rubber industry include shift and overtime allowances, wellness contributions, and opportunities for on-site training. Many employers also offer occupational pensions, work clothing, and subsidized meals. In some cases, bonus systems linked to production and quality are available.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a calender operator in rubber is moderate but can vary between regions and employers. An important challenge is quickly familiarizing oneself with new machines and processes, especially during technical upgrades in the factory. The working environment can be physically demanding, with a high pace and monotonous tasks. Safety requirements are high, demanding good discipline and precision. Since the profession depends on manufacturing industry cycles, demand is influenced by global market changes and technological development.

Tips for those who want to become a calender operator in rubber

To succeed as a calender operator in rubber, it is good to be precise and have an interest in technology, as the work requires constant monitoring of machines and quality controls. A structured approach facilitates handling multiple tasks simultaneously and reduces the risk of errors. Good teamwork skills are valuable since the work is often performed in teams and requires communication with other departments. Showing responsibility and following safety routines are crucial to avoiding accidents and maintaining a safe work environment. Practical problem-solving skills are helpful when unexpected situations arise during production. Flexibility and adaptability are also advantages, especially during shift work or changes in production. Finally, an engagement in learning new machines and processes is appreciated, enabling development and taking greater responsibility within the profession.

Key facts about Calender Operator, rubber

• Education level: High school education, usually 3 years
• Work environment: Factory environment with shift work and machine responsibility
• Occupational group: Machine operators, rubber industry
• Demand: 1,437 job openings within the occupational group
• Gender distribution: Women earn 97% of men's salary

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a calender operator in rubber, there are opportunities to advance to supervisory roles, such as team leader or production manager. With additional education or specialization, the operator can work with machine maintenance or technical development within the company. Projections from the Employment Service show no specific assessment for the profession due to limited data, but demand for machine operators in the rubber industry remains relatively stable, with 1437 job openings. Those wishing to broaden their career can also look into related roles in production, quality control, or logistics.

Frequently asked questions about Calender Operator, rubber

• What does a Calender Operator in rubber earn?
  - The average salary is 32 600 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and gender.
• How has the salary development been for a Calender Operator in rubber?
  - The salary has increased from 30,200 SEK in 2022 to 32 600 SEK in 2024, which corresponds to an increase of about 8%.
• What education is required to become a Calender Operator in rubber?
  - High school education with an industrial or technical focus is most common, often supplemented with practical training.
• Are there differences in salary between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 97% of what men do in the profession.
• What is the working environment like for a Calender Operator in rubber?
  - Work takes place in a factory environment with shift work, noise, and safety requirements for machinery.
• What career opportunities are there?
  - After a few years, one can advance to supervisory roles or further education in technology and production.
• What does the job market look like?
  - There are 1437 job openings within the profession of machine operators in the rubber industry.