Chrome worker

What does a chrome worker do? – Tasks and work environment

A chrome worker primarily works with surface treatment of metals through chrome plating, where a thin layer of chrome is applied to various components to improve durability, corrosion protection, and appearance. The tasks usually include preparing materials, monitoring the chrome plating process, quality control, and sometimes maintenance of machines and equipment. The work often takes place in industrial environments with special safety procedures and chemical handling, where precision and understanding of technical processes are important qualities.

Salary development over time

The salary for a chrome worker has shown a clear positive trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,100 SEK per month, while in 2023 it increased to 32 800. The latest measured average salary for 2024 is 35,200 SEK, which corresponds to an increase of approximately 13% over three years. This salary development can partly be explained by increased demand for skilled labor in the industry, as well as general salary adjustments to meet inflation and skill requirements. The specialized nature of the profession and technical responsibilities also contribute to maintaining a consistently high salary level compared to other operator professions.

Chrome worker salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 35,200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 32,400 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 36,200 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 212 SEK
• Men's average salary: 35 700 SEK/month
• Women's average salary: 32,400 SEK/month
• Women earn: 91% of what men do
• Regional differences: Highest wages are found in the regional sector, especially for men

Education and qualifications

To work as a chrome worker, a high school education with a focus on industry, technical production, or similar areas is usually required. Many employers also value practical experience from industrial work, especially within surface treatment or machine operation professions. Some workplaces offer internal training or require specific certificates for handling chemicals and ensuring safety.

• Education: High school education in industrial technology (3 years)
• Certifications: Workplace safety training, chemical handling
• Internship: Recommended during education or as a trainee
• Prerequisites: Basic technical understanding and precision
• Further education: Courses in surface treatment or machine maintenance can be advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Chrome workers are often covered by collective agreements that provide access to benefits such as occupational pension, insurance, and wellness allowances. Overtime pay, shift allowances, and opportunities for training within the company are also common. Some employers offer work clothes, subsidized lunches, or staff discounts.

Competition and challenges

The job market for chrome workers experiences some competition, but demand for skilled surface treatment workers remains stable. Challenges may arise from technological developments, where automation and digitalization change work tasks and require continuous skills development. Handling chemicals and environmental regulations also mean that the work environment must constantly be improved. The industry’s ability to attract younger workers influences the availability of personnel, while specialization can provide competitive advantages in the job market.

Tips for those who want to become a chrome worker

To succeed as a chrome worker, being precise and detail-oriented is important, as tasks often require accuracy and quality assurance. Having a technical interest and quickly adapting to new machines and processes is a great advantage, especially since tasks can vary depending on production needs. Flexibility and the ability to work independently and in teams facilitate work in an industrial environment where collaboration is crucial. A strong safety mindset is necessary for handling chemicals and following safety regulations. Showing engagement in further training and new methods can also open doors for development and specialization within the profession.

Key facts about Chrome Workers

• Education level: High school (industrial technology, 3 years)
• Work environment: Industrial, often with chemical handling
• Typical work pattern: Shift work or daytime, collective agreement
• Demand: 1,437 job openings within the occupational group
• Gender distribution: Predominantly men, but women are present

Career paths and future prospects

A chrome worker can, after a few years, advance to roles such as supervisor, production manager, or specialist in advanced surface treatment. Further education can open opportunities for quality control, technical maintenance, or training responsibilities within industrial companies. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that there is no precise assessment for the profession due to limited data, but the number of job openings for machine operators in surface treatment suggests continued demand. Specialization and technical engagement increase the chances of career development and higher salaries.

Frequently asked questions about Chrome Workers

• What does a chrome worker earn?
  - The average salary for a chrome worker is 35,200 SEK per month.
• How do salary differences between men and women look?
  - Men earn an average of 35 700 SEK, women 32,400 SEK, which means women earn 91% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a chrome worker?
  - High school education in industrial technology or equivalent is most common, sometimes supplemented with additional certifications.
• Are there many job openings for chrome workers?
  - There are 1,437 job openings in the occupational group machine operators, surface treatment.
• What is the work environment like for chrome workers?
  - The work takes place in industrial environments, often involving chemical handling and safety requirements.
• What career opportunities are available in the long term?
  - After a few years, a chrome worker can advance to specialist, leadership, or training roles within the industry.
• What is the highest salary for a chrome worker?
  - The highest reported salary is 36,200 SEK per month, for men in the regional sector with high school education.