- Salary statistics
- Cooler, glass
Cooler, glass
30 400 - 30 900 kr / month
Hantverksyrken
Salary progression Cooler, glass
What does a glass blower do – tasks and work environment
A glass blower works with shaping and refining molten glass into spheres and other round objects using traditional craftsmanship techniques. Tasks include handling molten glass, using various tools to shape and cool the material, and carefully inspecting quality and finish of each item. The work is usually performed in a glassworks environment where temperatures can be high, requiring precision and good physical endurance. Often, work steps are done in collaboration with other artisans and artists, which demands both teamwork skills and independence.
Salary development over time
The salary for a glass blower has shown a clear downward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 34,382 SEK per month, which increased slightly to 34 662 SEK in 2023. However, in 2024, the average salary dropped to 30 900 SEK, corresponding to a decrease of about 10.9% compared to the previous year. This decline can partly be explained by decreased demand for traditional glass craftsmanship and increased competition from automated production methods. Although the profession still requires high skills and specialized knowledge, market conditions have contributed to salary pressures. Regional factors and availability of jobs may also influence salary development for this profession.
Glass blower salary – full overview
- Average salary: 30 900 SEK/month
- Lowest/Highest salary: Statistical data unavailable
- Hourly wage: 186 SEK/hour
- Gender differences: Specific salary data unavailable
- Regional differences: Data not available
Education and qualifications
The path to becoming a glass blower usually involves vocational training in glass craftsmanship, often at the upper secondary level or through specialized folk high schools. Practical experience is highly important and is often gained through internships at glassworks or apprenticeships with established artisans. The technical and artistic demands of the profession mean that both formal education and practical skills are crucial for success.
- Vocational training: Craftsmanship program with a focus on glass (3 years)
- Internship: Apprenticeship at a glassworks is recommended
- Courses: Specialized courses in glass techniques and design
- Prerequisites: Technical interest and good fine motor skills
- Tips: Participate in workshops and network with established glass artisans
Working as a glass blower requires not only technical skill but also an artistic eye and a feel for the material. Many blowers develop unique signature techniques and contribute to passing on craft traditions to the next generation.
Common benefits and compensations
Benefits in the profession of glass blowing can include wellness allowances, work clothing, and sometimes opportunities for further training in craftsmanship. Employees at larger glassworks may also be covered by collective agreements that include extra vacation days, insurance, and pension contributions. Flexibility in working hours is possible in some cases, especially for project-based work or self-employment.
Competition and challenges
The profession of glass blowing faces tough competition from both machine production and imported glassware, which can make it difficult to maintain high salary levels. However, demand for genuine craftsmanship persists, especially in art and design segments. A challenge is to preserve and develop traditional techniques while adapting to market changes. Recruitment can be limited due to few training places and physically demanding working conditions. Success requires perseverance, innovation, and a willingness to continually develop one’s craft.
Tips for aspiring glass blowers
To succeed as a glass blower, it’s helpful to have a keen eye for detail and a genuine interest in craftsmanship. Being persistent and precise helps manage the technical challenges of working with glass, while creativity allows for developing your own styles and techniques. Practical experience is invaluable, so actively seek internships or apprenticeships with established glass artists. Building a network within the industry can open doors to new job opportunities and collaborations. Flexibility and adaptability to different work environments facilitate everyday work, especially since the job can be physically demanding and sometimes monotonous. Lastly, being attentive to customer preferences and design trends makes it easier to work independently or develop your own products.
Key facts about glass blowers
- Education level: Vocational or apprenticeship training
- Work environment: Glassworks or small studios, often with high temperatures
- Work form: Practical craftsmanship, sometimes project-based
- Demand: 341 available jobs within the profession
- Special skills: Glass shaping and artistic design
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a glass blower, opportunities exist to advance to leading roles within glassworks, such as supervisor or mentor for new apprentices. Some choose to specialize in art glass, working on unique commissions or own collections. The employment agency’s forecasts indicate ongoing demand for skilled craftsmen in glasswork, although competition from machine manufacturing means the number of positions is relatively limited. For those willing to further study in design or entrepreneurship, options include starting their own business or working internationally. The profession thus offers good opportunities for personal development and specialization.
Common questions about glass blowers
- What does a glass blower earn?
- The average salary is 30 900 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 186 SEK. - What education is required to become a glass blower?
- Typically, vocational training in glass craftsmanship or apprenticeship programs are required. - What is the job market like for glass blowers?
- There are 341 available jobs within the profession according to current data. - Are there regional salary differences for glass blowers?
- Specific information is lacking, but salary levels can be influenced by location and demand. - What personal qualities are important in the profession?
- Attention to detail, perseverance, and creativity are especially valuable qualities. - Does a glass blower usually work independently or in a team?
- Work is carried out both independently and in collaboration with other craftsmen. - What career opportunities are available after a few years?
- Opportunities include specialization, mentoring roles, or owning a business.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 30400 kr | 30900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 30400 kr | 30900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 30400 kr | 30900 kr |
About the data
All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.
All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.
Profession Cooler, glass has the SSYK code 7319, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
-
Builder Wanted for Growing Company
Musical instrument makers and other artisans
Thu, 4 Sep 2025 - 06:25 -
Job Advertisement: Wrap Specialist Wanted
Musical instrument makers and other artisans
Sat, 9 Aug 2025 - 14:10
-
Opinion Poll Status Novus: Unchanged Support – Social Democrats Largest
Wed, 19 Nov 2025 - 08:35 -
The National Debt – Level, Development, and Significance for Sweden
Wed, 8 Oct 2025 - 08:00