Control engineer, textile, wood etc.

What does a control engineer in textiles and wood do? – Tasks and work environment

Control engineers in textiles and wood play a central role in ensuring quality and safety in the production of materials, products, and components. Their tasks include inspecting and testing raw materials, monitoring production processes, and evaluating finished products according to applicable standards and regulations. The profession also involves identifying and reporting deviations, suggesting improvement measures, and working closely with production technicians and product developers. The work environment is often varied, including laboratories and factory floors, where both analytical ability and practical insight are crucial for success.

Salary development over time

The salary for a control engineer in textiles and wood has shown a steady and positive development in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 42,200 kronor per month, increasing to 43 700 kronor in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has risen further to 45 600 kronor, representing an increase of just over 8% over the three-year period. This trend can be partly explained by increasing demand for quality assurance in both the textile and wood industries, as well as a growing need for technical expertise and specialized knowledge. Differences in education level, experience, and geographic location also influence salary development. The trend indicates that skills in digitalization and sustainable production are becoming increasingly valuable for the profession.

Control engineer in textiles, wood, etc. salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 45 600 kr/month
• Lowest salary: 38,900 kr/month (female, private sector, high school diploma)
• Highest salary: 52,700 kr/month (male, public sector, postgraduate degree)
• Hourly wage: 274 kr
• Women: 43 100 kr/month (93% of men's salary)
• Men: 46 500 kr/month
• Regional differences: Large job markets in metropolitan regions, slightly higher salaries in southern Sweden

Education and qualifications

To work as a control engineer in textiles and wood, a university degree in a technical field is generally required, often supplemented with courses in materials science, quality assurance, and production technology. Practical experience from industry is highly meritorious and provides advantages in recruitment, especially for roles with greater responsibility. Many employers also require certifications in quality systems and a good ability to interpret standards for product control.

• Formal degree: Bachelor's or master's degree (3–5 years) in a relevant field
• Certifications: Quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001)
• Internships or trainee programs: Common in larger industrial companies
• Prerequisites: Science or technical high school
• Tips for choosing: Focus on courses in materials technology and sustainable production

Common benefits and compensations

Control engineers in textiles and wood are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, occupational pension, flexible working hours, and support for further training and certifications. In some cases, bonuses related to quality goals and product development may also be included, along with access to occupational health services and work clothing.

Competition and challenges

The profession of control engineer in textiles and wood is characterized by a competitive situation where technical competence and experience are highly valued in hiring. Digitalization and automation increase the demand for knowledge in new analysis tools and software, which can be a challenge for those who do not continuously update their skills. The industry is also affected by economic fluctuations and changing environmental requirements, making flexibility and adaptability important qualities. At the same time, the demand for sustainable production and quality control remains high, making the job market relatively stable, especially for those with specialized skills. Women are still underrepresented, and gender pay gaps persist despite slow improvements.

Tips for those who want to become control engineers in textiles and wood

To succeed as a control engineer in textiles and wood, it is good to have an analytical mindset and a strong interest in technology and materials. Precision is crucial, as the work often involves detecting small but critical deviations in production. Engagement in industry-specific networks and staying updated on new standards and methods can provide valuable contacts and insights. The ability to collaborate and communicate clearly is important, as the role involves frequent contact with both production and management. Being flexible and open to new technical solutions facilitates adaptation to the industry's rapid development. Finally, practical experience, such as summer jobs or trainee programs, provides an advantage in the job market and boosts confidence for future challenges.

Key facts about Control Engineer in textiles and wood

• Education level: Bachelor's or master's degree (3–5 years)
• Work environment: Mix of laboratories, factories, and offices
• Typical working hours: Full-time, often daytime
• Demand: 564 job openings in the profession (June 2024)
• Special skills: Materials science, quality assurance, digital analysis tools

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a control engineer in textiles and wood, opportunities open for more qualified roles such as quality manager, project leader for product development, or specialist in materials analysis. Some choose to further their education and work in research or as consultants for larger industrial projects. The Employment Service expects continued strong demand for engineers and technicians with this specialization, especially in areas such as digitalization, sustainable production, and circular economy. Technological development drives the need for lifelong learning and specialization, offering good career opportunities for those willing to develop. (Source: Arbetsförmedlingen)

Common questions about Control Engineer in textiles and wood

• What does a Control Engineer in textiles and wood earn?
  - A control engineer in textiles and wood has an average salary of 45 600 kronor per month.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 43 100 kronor while men earn 46 500 kronor, which means women earn 93% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a control engineer in textiles and wood?
  - Usually, a university or master's degree in a relevant technical field, often supplemented with courses in materials science and quality assurance.
• What does the job market look like for control engineers in textiles and wood?
  - The demand is good with over 560 job openings, especially in metropolitan regions and industry-heavy areas.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Opportunities include advancing to quality manager, project leader, or specialist in materials analysis, as well as working in research and development.
• What are the lowest and highest salaries for the profession?
  - The lowest salary is 38,900 kronor and the highest is 52,700 kronor per month, depending on education, sector, and experience.
• What personal qualities are important for the profession?
  - Analytical skills, thoroughness, teamwork ability, and flexibility are important qualities to succeed as a control engineer in textiles and wood.