Carousel lathe

What does a carousel turner do? – Tasks and working environment

A carousel turner works with setting up, monitoring, and operating large lathes, called carousel lathes, used for processing metal components with high precision. The tasks include interpreting drawings, selecting the right tools and materials, and programming or adjusting machine settings to ensure the products meet desired quality and dimensional accuracy. The work often takes place in industrial environments where safety and precision are crucial, and may involve both independent responsibility and collaboration with other technicians and operators. Carousel turners often handle large and heavy workpieces as well as advanced equipment, requiring technical knowledge and good physical condition.

Salary development over time

Carousel turners have experienced steady salary increases over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,000 SEK per month, rising to 34 000 in 2023 and further to 35 200 in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 6.7% over three years. This positive trend can largely be explained by continued high demand for skilled machine operators in the metal industry, where a shortage of qualified labor drives up wages. At the same time, technological development and increased requirements for specialized skills have contributed to raising the profession's status and salary levels. However, automation and digitalization may influence demand and wage development in the future.

Carousel turner salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 35 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,400 SEK/month (female, private employee, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 36,100 SEK/month (male, various sectors, post-secondary education shorter than 3 years)
• Hourly wage (average): 212 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 34 100 SEK, men 35 400 SEK (women 96% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salary levels can vary between regions depending on industry size and demand for labor

Education and qualifications

To work as a carousel turner, a high school education in industrial technology is usually required, preferably with a focus on CNC technology or metal processing. Many employers prefer candidates with additional courses or certifications in CNC programming and practical experience in turning. Internships during education and further training at the workplace are often important steps toward becoming a fully qualified carousel turner.

• High school education: Industrial technology program, 3 years
• Certifications/courses: CNC technology, machine safety, metrology
• Internship/trainee: Internship during studies and/or trainee programs at the workplace
• Prerequisites: Good knowledge of mathematics and technology
• Tips for choosing: Select a program with strong industry links for the best chance of employment

Common benefits and compensations

Carousel turners are often covered by collective agreements that entitle them to additional holiday pay, occupational pension, and insurances. Many employers also offer work clothing, wellness allowances, and opportunities for further training. Shift work may provide additional pay, and overtime is compensated according to agreements. In some cases, bonuses linked to production results or individual performance are also available.

Competition and challenges

Demand for carousel turners has long been high, and the shortage of qualified labor has led to good employment opportunities in the profession. However, forecasts indicate that demand may decrease in the long term, mainly due to increased automation and technological development in the industry. This means that professionals need to stay updated on new techniques and be prepared to further educate themselves to remain attractive on the job market. Competition for jobs may therefore increase, especially among those with older education or less experience with modern machine technology. At the same time, a large number of vacancies still exist, particularly in larger industrial regions.

Tips for those who want to become a carousel turner

To succeed as a carousel turner, it is good to combine technical interest with a desire for continuous development. Precision is crucial, as every detail must meet high quality standards, so practicing accuracy during education is wise. Problem-solving skills are also important, and those who can quickly analyze and fix machine problems have a significant advantage. Being cooperative facilitates communication with colleagues and management, especially on larger projects. It is also valuable to seek internships early to build experience and networks, and to be willing to further educate oneself in new techniques and CNC programming. Adaptability is central as the industry changes rapidly, and those interested in technological development are well prepared for the future.

Key facts about carousel turners

• Education level: High school education (industrial technology) is most common
• Work environment: Industrial workshop, often shift work
• Demand: High, but expected to decline in the long term
• Special skills: CNC technology and machine programming
• Number of job openings: 1,437 within the group of machine setters and operators, metalworking

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a carousel turner, there are good opportunities to advance to more specialized roles, such as production technician, supervisor, or trainer in the industry. Some choose to further specialize in CNC programming or automation to take on more advanced tasks. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, job opportunities within the group of machine setters and operators in metalworking are currently large but are expected to decrease within five years due to increased automation and technological development. To secure their future in the industry, professionals should continuously develop their skills and be open to new technical solutions.

Frequently asked questions about carousel turners

• What does a carousel turner earn?
  - The average salary for a carousel turner is 35 200 SEK per month.
• How does the salary difference between women and men look?
  - Men earn on average 35 400 SEK while women earn 34 100 SEK, which means women earn 96% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a carousel turner?
  - High school education in industrial technology, preferably with CNC specialization, is most common. Internships and further training are advantageous.
• What are the future prospects for carousel turners?
  - Job opportunities are currently abundant, but demand is expected to decline in the long term according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries vary depending on the region and industry demand for labor.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Common benefits include collectively agreed occupational pension, insurances, work clothing, wellness allowance, and training opportunities.