Calender operator, plastic

What does a calendar operator do in the plastics industry? – Tasks and work environment

A calendar operator in the plastics industry is responsible for monitoring and controlling calendar machines used to process and shape plastic materials. The work involves adjusting machine settings, supervising production, and ensuring the final product meets quality standards. The operator also monitors temperature, pressure, and material flow, as well as performing basic maintenance and troubleshooting when needed. The work environment is often industrial, involving both manual work and machine supervision, where safety routines and precision are central parts of daily tasks.

Wage development over time

The salary for a calendar operator in the plastics industry has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,900 SEK per month, increasing to 32 000 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary reached 33 200 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 7.5% over the three-year period. This positive trend can partly be explained by increased demand for technically skilled operators and the fact that the tasks require a combination of technical understanding and practical experience. At the same time, automation and technological development have impacted the profession, potentially raising the requirements for competence and affecting salary levels. Despite the overall salary increase, there are still differences between genders and regions, with men generally earning slightly more than women.

Calendar Operator, plastics salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,500 SEK (female, regional sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 35,700 SEK (male, private sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage: 200 SEK
• Women: 31 800 SEK (94% of men's salary)
• Men: 33 900 SEK
• Regional differences: Occur, especially between private and public/regional sectors

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a calendar operator in the plastics industry often involves a technical high school education with a focus on industry, production, or process technology. Many employers prefer candidates who have additional courses in mechanical engineering or automation. Practical experience from an industrial environment is highly valued, and some workplaces offer internal trainee programs for new hires.

• High school education: Industrial technology program, 3 years
• Certifications: Courses in machine safety and process technology
• Internship: Work-based learning during education
• Experience: Previous work in industry or production is advantageous
• Prerequisites: Technical interest, precision, and good understanding of safety

Common benefits and compensations

Benefits often include shift and overtime premiums, wellness contributions, and opportunities for further training within the company. Other common compensations include work clothing, subsidized lunches, and sometimes bonuses tied to production targets. Occupational pension and insurance coverage are standard in larger companies.

Competition and challenges

The occupational group of machine operators in the plastics industry offers good job opportunities, but demand is expected to decline in the long term due to increased automation and technological development. The recruitment situation is paradoxical – it is difficult to find qualified personnel while many leave the profession. To meet future requirements, continuous skills development is necessary, especially in digitalization and machine control. Competition for more advanced positions may increase as more people seek higher education and specialization in the industry.

Tips for those who want to become a calendar operator in the plastics industry

To succeed as a calendar operator, it is beneficial to have a genuine interest in technology and machinery, as the job requires both understanding and curiosity about industrial processes. Precision is an important trait because small deviations in production can affect the final result and safety. Being solution-oriented and able to take initiative during production is appreciated by employers, especially when troubleshooting or machine stops occur. Flexibility is crucial, as work often occurs in shifts and tasks may vary depending on production needs. Good teamwork skills facilitate daily work, as the operator often works together with other professionals in the factory. Finally, a willingness to learn and develop is essential, as technology in the plastics industry evolves rapidly with new machines and methods being continuously introduced.

Key facts about Calendar Operator, plastics

• Education level: High school, industrial technology program
• Work environment: Industrial, often shift work
• Typical employment: Full-time, team work
• Demand: High opportunities today, decreasing in the long term according to the Employment Service
• Special skills: Machine knowledge, process technology, safety routines

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a calendar operator in the plastics industry can advance to roles such as shift supervisor, production coordinator, or technician in process and machine maintenance. Some choose to further educate themselves in automation or production technology to move into supervisory roles or specialize in quality control. The Employment Service's forecasts indicate good job opportunities in the short term, but demand is expected to decline over five years due to increased automation and technological development. To secure a future in the profession, it is recommended to continuously build on skills and follow industry developments. Currently, there are a total of 1437 job openings in the machine operator group, plastics industry.

Common questions about Calendar Operator, plastics

• What does a Calendar Operator in plastics earn?
  - The average salary is 33 200 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 200 SEK.
• What education is required to become a Calendar Operator in plastics?
  - High school education with a focus on industrial technology is most common, supplemented with internal training or certifications.
• Are there differences between men's and women's wages?
  - Yes, women earn on average 94% of what men do within the profession.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Good employment opportunities currently, but demand is expected to decrease in the long term.
• What occupational health and safety risks exist?
  - Work takes place in an industrial environment with machines, requiring careful attention to safety procedures and routines.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Common paths include shift supervisor, technician, or further education in automation and quality control.
• How many job openings are available within the occupational group?
  - There are currently 1437 job openings in machine operation within the plastics industry.