Kontrolltekniker, gruva/metallurgi

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

A control technician in mining and metallurgy is responsible for monitoring, controlling, and quality-assuring processes in mineral and metal extraction and refining. Typical tasks include installing, testing, and calibrating measurement instruments, monitoring automated systems, and analyzing process data to detect deviations. The work often takes place in an industrial environment where safety procedures are central, and the work environment can be noisy and physically demanding. Collaboration with engineers, process operators, and maintenance staff is common, as well as working in shifts or on-call to ensure continuous operation.

Salary development over time

The salary for control technicians in mining and metallurgy has shown steady and positive growth over recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 42,700 SEK per month, increasing to 44 400 SEK in 2023 and further to 47 400 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of approximately 11% over three years, with a particularly clear rise in the past year. The salary increase can mainly be linked to increased demand for technical skills within the Swedish mining industry and a greater focus on automation and digitalization, which require more specialized personnel. At the same time, competition for qualified technicians and engineers has helped push up wages in the profession.

Control technician, mining/metallurgy salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 47 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 36,900 SEK/month (women, public sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Highest salary: 48,500 SEK/month (men, private sector, unspecified education level)
• Hourly wage: 285 SEK/hour (based on 166 working hours per month)
• Gender differences: Men earn 48,500 SEK, women 44 900 SEK – women earn 93% of men's salary
• Regional differences: Data is missing or varies depending on mining region

Education and qualifications

To work as a control technician in mining and metallurgy, a technical education at high school or post-secondary level is usually required, often with a focus on automation, electrical engineering, or process industry. Practical experience is highly valuable, and many employers appreciate previous work within the industry or similar environments. Further training and certifications in control and regulation technology can give advantages in the job market.

• Formal education: Technical high school or vocational college (2–3 years) with a focus on automation, electrical engineering, or process technology
• Certifications: Courses in control and regulation technology, automation systems, and safety
• Internships: On-the-job training during education or trainee programs
• Prerequisites: Technical interest, mathematical skills, and good computer literacy
• Tips: Choose programs with strong industry contacts and opportunities for internships in mining or process industries

Common benefits and compensation

Control technicians in the mining and metallurgical industry are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, extra vacation days, shift or on-call allowances, and opportunities for skills development. Additional compensation may be provided for work during inconvenient hours and travel to various facilities. Employers in the private sector may also offer bonus programs and occupational pension schemes beyond the collective agreement pension.

Competition and challenges

The job market for control technicians in mining and metallurgy is characterized by specialization and technological development, resulting in relatively high demand for skills. However, competition for the most attractive positions can be intense, especially in regions with few large employers or during periods of reduced mining activity. The shortage of formally educated technicians, as well as the need to stay updated with rapidly evolving technology, pose challenges. The work environment can be demanding, with high safety requirements and sometimes underground or shift work, demanding physical and mental resilience.

Tips for aspiring control technicians in mining/metallurgy

To succeed as a control technician in mining and metallurgy, it is beneficial to be analytical and meticulous, as the work requires quickly detecting and addressing small deviations. Good teamwork skills are valuable since much of the work is done in collaboration with other technicians and engineers. Flexibility is helpful when tasks and working hours vary, especially during shifts or on-call duties. A technical interest and a willingness to continuously learn new things give significant advantages in an industry where digitalization and automation solutions are developing rapidly. Being proactive and independent is appreciated by employers, especially when it comes to suggesting improvements and working proactively with maintenance. The ability to communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing, facilitates reporting and collaboration in safety-critical environments.

Key facts about control technicians in mining/metallurgy

• Education level: High school or vocational college with technical focus
• Work environment: Industrial environment, often shift or on-call work
• Average salary: 47 400 SEK/month
• Demand: 564 job openings in the profession according to latest data
• Gender distribution: Women earn 93% of what men do in the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a control technician in mining and metallurgy, opportunities often open for advancement to roles such as operations manager, maintenance supervisor, or automation specialist. For those wishing to deepen their expertise, further education can lead to positions as process engineer or project manager within larger industrial projects. The employment agency's forecasts indicate that there is not enough data for a detailed outlook, but demand remains high with 564 job openings in Sweden. Technological development and industry needs for automation suggest continued good prospects, especially for those investing in their skills development.

Common questions about control technicians in mining/metallurgy

• What does a control technician earn in mining/metallurgy?
  - The average salary is 47 400 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 285 SEK.
• What education is required to become a control technician in mining/metallurgy?
  - A technical high school or vocational college with a focus on automation, electrical engineering, or process technology is recommended.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn 93% of what men do in the profession – 44 900 SEK compared to 48,500 SEK.
• What is the work environment like for a control technician in mining and metallurgy?
  - The work environment is industrial and may involve shift work, noise, and high safety standards.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Currently, there are 564 job openings in the profession, but no forecast is provided due to limited data.
• What benefits are common?
  - Wellness allowances, extra vacation days, shift allowances, and skills development are typical.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a control technician in mining/metallurgy?
  - The highest salary is 48,500 SEK (male, private sector), and the lowest is 36,900 SEK (female, public sector).