Kokillpursare

What does a mold setter do? – tasks and working environment

A mold setter primarily works within the metal industry, processing, grinding, and polishing metal castings taken from molds, which are form tools for casting. The tasks often include removing scales, slag, and other irregularities from metal objects after casting, requiring great precision and a keen eye for quality. The work is often performed in an industrial environment where machines, grinding tools, and various hand tools are used in combination with manual work. The working environment can be noisy and dusty, so good knowledge of safety regulations and the use of protective equipment is essential. Mold setters often work in teams but also independently, and the pace can vary depending on production demands and customer delivery times.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, mold setters have experienced steady salary increases. In 2022, the average salary was 36,400 SEK per month, rising to 37 700 SEK in 2023, and expected to reach 39 700 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 9% over the period, slightly above the average for similar industrial professions. A likely explanation for this positive trend is the continued high demand for skilled process supervisors in metal production, combined with an increased focus on quality and efficiency. A shortage of experienced mold setters and higher requirements for technical competence have also contributed to rising wages. Despite this, differences remain between genders and regions, with metropolitan areas often offering somewhat higher salaries than rural areas.

Mold setter salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 39 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,000 SEK/month (female, various sectors)
• Highest salary: 40,200 SEK/month (male, regional sector, up to 2-year upper secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 239 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Women earn on average 38,000 SEK/month, which corresponds to 95% of men's salary (39 900 SEK/month)
• Regional differences: Salary variations occur, with higher wages in metropolitan regions and within regional sectors

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a mold setter often goes through a secondary technical program or equivalent training within the metal and manufacturing industry. Many also require on-the-job training, where practical skills and safety routines are taught under the supervision of experienced colleagues. Formal certifications are rarely required, but experience in similar work or courses in metal processing can be advantageous.

• Education: Secondary industrial technical education (3 years)
• Practical training: Internship or trainee position within metal or manufacturing industry
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition, technical interest, and meticulousness
• Courses: Supplementary courses in work environment and safety are advantageous
• Tips for choosing: Interest in craftsmanship and machine technology facilitates learning

Common benefits and compensations

Mold setters often have access to collective agreement benefits such as additional pension contributions, health insurance, and wellness allowances. Shift and overtime compensation are common, especially for work during inconvenient hours. Some employers also provide work clothing, subsidized meals, and opportunities for further training within the company.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a mold setter is generally moderate, but it can be difficult to find qualified candidates with the right experience. The profession requires both technical understanding and precision, and the work environment demands high safety standards and endurance. Challenges often arise during production increases or when new technology is introduced, requiring staff to adapt quickly and continuously develop their skills. The gender distribution remains uneven, with men still dominating, which can affect work climate and development opportunities for women. Despite high demand in the metal industry, regional differences in job availability and salary levels can influence the competitive situation.

Tips for aspiring mold setters

To succeed as a mold setter, it is beneficial to combine meticulousness with technical interest, as the work often requires high precision in processing metal objects. Being resilient and physically fit is an advantage, as the working environment can be physically demanding and the pace varies. A problem-solving mindset helps when unexpected faults occur in production, and flexibility is important to quickly adapt to different tasks. Demonstrating responsibility and following safety routines are crucial for your own safety and that of colleagues. Good teamwork skills are also valuable, as the work is often done in teams. Finally, a willingness to continuously learn new skills, especially as technology and methods evolve, is highly appreciated.

Key facts about mold setters

• Educational level: Secondary industrial technical education
• Work environment: Industrial, noisy, and physically demanding
• Typical work form: Shift work and teamwork
• Demand: 481 job openings according to latest data
• Special skills: Craftsmanship and safety awareness

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years in the profession, a mold setter can advance to more specialized roles within production, such as supervisor, machine operator, or quality inspector. Further education in process monitoring or technical maintenance can open doors to more advanced and higher-paid positions. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts for process supervisors in metal production, no exact assessment is made for mold setters due to limited data. However, there are a total of 481 job openings in the group, indicating continued demand. Future prospects are influenced by economic trends in the industry and technological development, where automation and digitalization may change the work content but also create new opportunities for those willing to further their education.

Frequently asked questions about mold setters

• What does a mold setter earn?
  - The average salary is 39 700 SEK/month, with variations depending on experience, gender, and region.
• What education is required to become a mold setter?
  - A secondary industrial technical education is recommended, often supplemented with on-the-job training.
• Are there differences in salary between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 95% of what men do in the profession.
• What is the working environment like for mold setters?
  - The work environment is industrial, noisy, and sometimes physically demanding, with a focus on safety.
• What career opportunities are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Advancement to roles such as supervisor, machine operator, or quality inspector is possible.
• What is the demand for mold setters?
  - Currently, there are 481 job openings in the profession, indicating strong demand.
• What personal qualities are important for a mold setter?
  - Attention to detail, technical interest, problem-solving skills, and responsibility are key qualities.