Kontrollingenjör, gruva/metallurgi

What does a control engineer in mining and metallurgy do? – Tasks and work environment

A control engineer in mining and metallurgy is responsible for ensuring that processes and products in mines and metallurgical facilities meet established quality and safety standards. The work includes quality control of raw materials and finished products, review of work methods, sampling, and analysis. The control engineer often works closely with production and has a significant responsibility to identify deviations, suggest improvements, and follow up on their implementation. The work environment can vary between office settings, laboratories, and on-site at production facilities where protective equipment is necessary. Collaboration with technicians, production staff, and management is central to the role.

Salary development over time

The salary development for control engineers in mining and metallurgy has been steadily positive in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 42,700 SEK per month, which increased to 44 400 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 47 400 SEK, representing an increase of over 11% over three years. This trend reflects an increasing demand for specialized skills in the industry, driven by technological development and higher requirements for environmental and quality controls. Employers value experience and technical knowledge, especially as the mining and metallurgical industries modernize and face new regulatory demands.

Control engineer, mining/metallurgy salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 47 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 36,900 SEK/month (female, public sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Highest salary: 48,500 SEK/month (male, private sector, unspecified education)
• Hourly wage (average): 285 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Men 48,500 SEK/month, women 44 900 SEK/month (women earn 93% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data on regional variation is unavailable

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a control engineer in mining and metallurgy typically involves a university or master's degree in fields such as mining engineering, metallurgy, materials engineering, or chemistry. Practical experience from mining or process industries is often advantageous and may sometimes be a requirement depending on the employer. Some employers also seek specific certifications or courses in quality control and occupational safety.

• Formal education: University or master's degree (3–5 years) in relevant engineering fields
• Certifications: Quality control, occupational safety, or process technology
• Internship/trainee: Internship in mining or process industry is recommended
• Prerequisites: Science or technical high school education
• Tips for choosing: Specialization in materials or process engineering provides extra competitiveness

Common benefits and compensations

Control engineers in mining and metallurgy are often offered competitive benefits beyond base salary, such as extra vacation days, wellness allowances, occupational pension, health insurance, and sometimes bonuses tied to quality targets or project results. On-site work may also include shift allowances and compensation for inconvenient hours.

Competition and challenges

The profession as a control engineer in mining and metallurgy is characterized by technological development and increasing demands for environmental and quality work. Competition for jobs is considered moderate, but the availability of positions can vary depending on economic cycles and investments in the mining industry. A challenge is to stay updated on new regulations and technologies, while the industry depends on international commodity prices and sustainability requirements. The work environment can be demanding, especially when working outdoors or in shifts. The ability to adapt quickly to changing processes and working conditions is therefore important.

Tips for those aiming to become a control engineer in mining and metallurgy

To succeed as a control engineer in mining and metallurgy, it is beneficial to combine technical curiosity with analytical skills and precision. Early internships or summer jobs in mining or process industries are highly valued by employers. A communicative and collaborative attitude facilitates teamwork with production and management. Flexibility and resilience under pressure are important when pace is high or unexpected problems arise. It is also wise to actively follow technological innovations and environmental regulations, as the industry evolves rapidly. Building a network within the industry can also provide advantages in finding new opportunities and advancing in the profession.

Key facts about control engineers in mining and metallurgy

• Education level: University or master's degree (3–5 years)
• Work environment: Mix of office, laboratory, and on-site facilities
• Work form: Full-time, often daytime but shifts may occur
• Demand: 564 available jobs in Sweden
• Special knowledge: Quality control and process technology

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years in the profession, control engineers in mining and metallurgy can advance to roles such as quality manager, production supervisor, or specialist in process technology. Those interested in project management can take responsibility for larger improvement projects or the implementation of new technical solutions. According to the Swedish Employment Agency's forecasts, no specific assessment is made for this profession due to limited data, but it is noted that there are 564 available jobs. The industry’s focus on sustainability and technological innovation suggests that demand for qualified control engineers will remain stable in the long term.

Frequently asked questions about control engineers in mining and metallurgy

• What does a control engineer earn in mining and metallurgy?
  - The average salary is 47 400 SEK per month. Men earn on average 48,500 SEK, women 44 900 SEK.
• What education is required to become a control engineer in mining and metallurgy?
  - A university or master's degree in engineering within fields such as mining engineering, metallurgy, or related areas is required.
• Are there salary differences based on gender?
  - Yes, women earn on average 93% of what men do in the profession.
• What is the job market like for control engineers in mining and metallurgy?
  - There are 564 available jobs in Sweden according to current statistics.
• What are the duties of a control engineer in mining and metallurgy?
  - Duties include quality control, sampling, material analysis, documentation, and improvement work.
• What benefits are common for control engineers in mining and metallurgy?
  - Common benefits include extra vacation days, wellness contributions, occupational pension, and sometimes bonuses linked to results.
• Can a control engineer work internationally?
  - Yes, especially within large mining companies, there are opportunities to work abroad.