Compass maker

What does a Compass Maker do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Compass Maker works with the manufacturing, assembly, and calibration of precision instruments, including compasses for navigation and measurement purposes. The profession requires a high degree of accuracy, technical understanding, and fine motor skills. Tasks often involve both manual craftsmanship and the use of specialized machines to ensure each instrument meets exact precision requirements. Compass Makers operate in small workshops or specialized industrial environments, where the work environment is characterized by focus and attention to detail. Collaboration with engineers and other precision mechanics is common, especially during the development or repair of more advanced navigation instruments.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, Compass Makers have seen a steady increase in average salary. In 2022, the average salary was 31,900 SEK per month, rising the following year to 33 400 SEK in 2023. The positive trend continued into 2024, when the average salary reached 34 800 SEK. This represents a total salary increase of approximately 9% over the period, which is somewhat higher than many other craft trades. This development can be explained by an increased need for specialized skills in precision mechanics and a generational shift leading to higher demand for experienced Compass Makers. The gender pay gap remains significant, reflecting both industry structure and educational background.

Compass Maker salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 34 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 28,300 SEK/month (female)
• Highest salary: 40,900 SEK/month (male)
• Hourly wage: 209 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 75% of what men do (men: 37 900 SEK, women: 28,300 SEK)
• Regional differences: Not specified

Education and qualifications

A Compass Maker belongs to the precision mechanics occupational group, with a practical education path. The most common route is a high school diploma in industrial engineering or precision mechanics, supplemented with on-the-job training. Many choose to further their education through shorter post-secondary courses to deepen their knowledge in precision work and instrument technology. Success in the profession often requires both theoretical understanding and practical experience working with sensitive mechanical components.

• High school education: Industrial engineering/Precision mechanics (3 years)
• Post-secondary courses: Specialization in instrument technology (up to 2 years)
• Practical training: Apprenticeships or trainee programs recommended
• Prerequisites: Good knowledge of mathematics and technology
• Certifications: Possible within instrument technology and precision mechanics

Common benefits and compensations

Compass Makers are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness contributions, and insurance. Employers may also provide work clothing, tools, and opportunities for further training and skill development. In more specialized workshops, bonuses related to projects or production targets may also be available.

Competition and challenges

The competition within the profession of Compass Maker is relatively limited, partly due to the narrow niche and the relatively low number of trained specialists. One of the biggest challenges is the generational shift, as many experienced practitioners approach retirement age while few young people choose the profession. Technological development also means that knowledge of both traditional and modern manufacturing methods is necessary, which can place high demands on ongoing training. Since Compass Makers often work in small teams or alone, independence and a sense of responsibility are required. The lack of formal education pathways and the limited number of workplaces can also make it difficult for recent graduates to establish themselves.

Tips for aspiring Compass Makers

To succeed as a Compass Maker, it is good to combine patience with a genuine interest in technology and precision. Analytical skills facilitate troubleshooting or adjustments of complex instruments, while accuracy is crucial in everything from assembly to final inspection. Showing initiative and willingness to learn new manufacturing methods provides advantages in a field that balances tradition and innovation. Communication skills are important, especially when working in collaboration with engineers or other specialists. Flexibility and problem-solving abilities help manage challenges that may arise when working with unique or older instruments. An eye for detail and good hand skills are qualities that often distinguish the best practitioners from the rest.

Key facts about Compass Makers

• Education level: High school diploma with a technical focus, often supplemented with vocational courses
• Occupational group: Precision mechanic
• Typical work environment: Workshop or specialized industry
• Demand: 341 job openings within the precision mechanics group
• Gender distribution: Significant salary differences between men and women

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years of experience as a Compass Maker, there may be opportunities to advance to senior roles, such as supervisor or specialist in measurement technology and instrument service. Some choose to further their education and work on developing new precision instruments, while others start their own business in precision craftsmanship. Forecasts from the Employment Service do not provide a specific assessment for Compass Makers, but within the precision mechanics group, there are 341 job openings, indicating ongoing demand for skills. However, the profession is influenced by technological development and digitalization, which may change job tasks over time. Specialization and continuous learning are therefore central to long-term career development.

Frequently asked questions about Compass Makers

• What is the average salary of a Compass Maker?
  - A Compass Maker has an average salary of 34 800 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a Compass Maker?
  - High school education in technology or industrial engineering and practical training are most common, sometimes supplemented with specialized courses.
• What are the gender differences in the profession?
  - Women earn on average 75% of what men do in the profession, which corresponds to 28,300 SEK compared to 37 900 SEK.
• Are there many job openings for Compass Makers?
  - Within the precision mechanics group, which includes Compass Makers, there are 341 job vacancies.
• What is the highest salary for a Compass Maker?
  - The highest salary is 40,900 SEK per month and belongs to a man with post-secondary education shorter than three years.
• What are the future prospects for a Compass Maker?
  - No specific forecast is provided, but demand in precision mechanics remains stable according to the Employment Service.
• What personal qualities are important for the profession?
  - Attention to detail, patience, technical interest, and problem-solving skills are key qualities.