Lime house worker, tannery

What does a Kalkhusarbetare in tannery do? – Tasks and work environment

A Kalkhusarbetare in tannery works with preparing and processing hides before the tanning process. Tasks include removing hair and flesh from animal hides, often using chemicals and specialized equipment. The work mainly takes place in industrial environments where manual and machine-based tasks are involved. Kalkhusarbetare often handle heavy lifts, operate in humid conditions, and deal with strong odors, requiring precision and good physical condition. The work environment is characterized by routines, safety regulations, and collaboration with other roles within the tannery.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for Kalkhusarbetare in tannery has shown a steady upward trend. In 2022, the average salary was 27,700 SEK per month, increasing to 29 600 SEK in 2023 and reaching 30 400 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to an increase of approximately 9.8% over the period. The salary increase can be linked to increased demand for skilled workers and some inflation within the industry. Although the profession is relatively niche, competition for experienced Kalkhusarbetare has contributed to positive salary development, with employers continuing to seek competence and experience.

Kalkhusarbetare in tannery salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 30 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 29,400 SEK/month (female, private employee, high school education 3 years)
• Highest salary: 32,200 SEK/month (male, regional sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage: 183 SEK/hour (based on 166 working hours/month)
• Gender differences: Men earn 31 200 SEK, women 29 700 SEK (women earn 95% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a Kalkhusarbetare in tannery, a high school education in industry, technology, or similar fields is usually required. Practical experience from process industries, especially in textile, leather, or skin handling, is often advantageous. Many employers offer internal training, but basic understanding of work environment and safety is essential. Some workplaces may also require certificates for handling specific chemicals.

• High school education: Industrial program or equivalent, 3 years
• Certifications: Occupational health and safety, chemical handling (sometimes required)
• Internship: Apprenticeships or practical training in tannery or related industries
• Pre-knowledge: Basic Swedish and mathematics, good physical health
• Tips: Interest in process industry and precision facilitates entry into the profession

Common benefits and compensations

Kalkhusarbetare in tannery are often offered collectively negotiated benefits such as occupational pensions, insurances, and wellness contributions. Overtime pay and shift allowances may apply in shift work, along with access to work clothing and protective equipment. Some workplaces also offer subsidized meals and opportunities for skill development.

Competition and challenges

The profession of Kalkhusarbetare in tannery is specialized and mainly found within a narrow industry segment. Competition for jobs varies depending on region and demand within the textile and leather industries. A challenge is that tasks can be physically demanding and the work environment sometimes strenuous, requiring endurance and precision. Technological changes and industry efficiency measures may also impact work content and future staffing needs. Limited training places and employers contribute to a relatively constant demand for experienced Kalkhusarbetare, though this may fluctuate over time.

Tips for those wanting to become Kalkhusarbetare in tannery

To succeed as a Kalkhusarbetare in tannery, it is good to be both resilient and precise in your work. Practical skills are important, so taking the opportunity for internships or apprenticeships during education can give an advantage. Good physical condition helps, as tasks are often physically demanding and performed in environments requiring strength and endurance. Teamwork skills are also central, as work is often done in teams and requires smooth communication with colleagues. Flexibility regarding different tasks and the ability to quickly adapt to changes in production are advantages. An interest in industrial processes and material knowledge also improves development opportunities within the profession. Finally, always following safety regulations carefully and showing responsibility for your own and others' work environment is crucial.

Key facts about Kalkhusarbetare, tannery

• Education level: High school, industrial program
• Work environment: Industrial, often humid, involving chemical handling
• Typical work form: Shift work or daytime within production
• Gender distribution: Women earn 95% of men's salaries in the profession
• Demand: 1,437 job openings in 2024

Career paths and future outlook

After 3–5 years as a Kalkhusarbetare in tannery, there are opportunities to take on greater responsibility, such as team leader or supervisor roles within production. Some choose to further their education in process industry or quality assurance, which can lead to specialized roles within tannery or textile industries. According to the Employment Service's forecasts, no specific assessment is made for the profession due to limited data, but indications show stable demand, with a total of 1,437 job openings in 2024. The industry's future depends on technological development and environmental requirements, which can create new opportunities for those willing to adapt and further educate themselves.

Frequently asked questions about Kalkhusarbetare, tannery

• What does a Kalkhusarbetare, tannery earn?
  - A Kalkhusarbetare in tannery has an average salary of 30 400 SEK per month.
• How do salary differences between men and women look?
  - Men earn 31 200 SEK and women 29 700 SEK per month, meaning women earn approximately 95% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a Kalkhusarbetare in tannery?
  - High school education, preferably industrial program, along with internship or experience from similar industries is recommended.
• What is the work environment like for Kalkhusarbetare?
  - The work environment is industrial, often humid, involving handling of chemicals and physically demanding tasks.
• Are there many job openings in the profession?
  - There were 1,437 job openings in 2024.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The Employment Service makes no specific forecast, but demand for experienced Kalkhusarbetare remains stable within the industry.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Common benefits include collectively negotiated pensions, insurances, and wellness contributions.