Kvalitetsingenjör, gruva/metallurgi

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

A quality engineer in mining and metallurgy is responsible for ensuring that processes and products within mining operations and metallurgical production meet high quality standards. Tasks include analyzing production data, conducting quality inspections, developing and implementing improvement measures, and collaborating with production teams to identify and address deviations. The work environment varies between office work, laboratory analyses, and industrial settings close to production. Safety awareness is crucial, as workplaces may involve potential risks related to heavy machinery and chemical handling.

Salary development over time

The salary for a quality engineer in mining and metallurgy has shown a stable and positive trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 42,700 SEK per month, increased to 44 400 SEK in 2023, and further to 47 400 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to an increase of over 11% over a three-year period. The growth is driven by continued high demand for technical expertise in the mining and metal industry, where digitalization and increased sustainability requirements drive the need for qualified engineers. Competition for skilled labor and rising demands for specialization have also contributed to raising salary levels.

Quality Engineer, mining/metallurgy salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 47 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 36,900 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 48,500 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 285 SEK
• Women: 44 900 SEK/month (93% of men's salary)
• Men: 48,500 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a quality engineer in mining and metallurgy, a university or engineering degree in a relevant field such as materials engineering, chemical engineering, mining engineering, or similar is usually required. Practical experience from industry and knowledge of quality management are advantageous. Many employers also seek certifications in quality assurance and experience with improvement work according to international standards.

• Formal degree: University or engineering degree (3–5 years)
• Certifications: Six Sigma, Lean, ISO 9001
• Internship: Common during education or via trainee programs
• Prerequisites: Basic chemistry, materials science, and mathematics
• Tip for choosing: Select programs with industry collaborations for relevant internships

Common benefits and compensations

Quality engineers in mining and metallurgy are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, extra vacation, insurance, and opportunities for professional development. Several employers also offer bonus programs and flexible working hours, especially in larger industrial companies.

Competition and challenges

The competition for roles in quality within the mining and metallurgy sector is relatively low, but the industry demands high technical competence and experience. Challenges for professionals include staying updated with constantly changing regulations, new technologies, and increased sustainability requirements. Since the role often involves responsibility for both process and product quality, the ability to handle complex issues and quickly identify improvement opportunities is essential. Increasing digitalization and automation in industry mean the role is evolving rapidly, requiring continuous skills development.

Tips for aspiring quality engineers in mining and metallurgy

To succeed as a quality engineer in mining and metallurgy, it is beneficial to be analytical and meticulous, as the role requires data-driven problem solving and detailed process follow-up. Strong communication skills are valuable for effective collaboration across departments and explaining quality requirements pedagogically. Gaining internships or summer jobs in industry early on helps build experience and networks. Initiative and interest in technological development facilitate quick adaptation to new production methods and tools. Continuously furthering education in quality systems and standards makes it easier to stand out in the job market. Finally, a structured working approach is crucial for managing multiple projects and ensuring quality goals are met.

Key facts about Quality Engineer, mining/metallurgy

• Educational level: University or engineering degree (3–5 years)
• Work environment: Combination of industry, laboratory, and office
• Typical working hours: Full-time, often daytime
• Demand: 564 job openings within the profession
• Gender distribution: Women earn 93% of what men do

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years in the profession, opportunities open up to advance to leadership roles such as quality manager, process developer, or project manager within larger industrial companies. Some choose to specialize in sustainability, environmental management, or internal audits. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, no precise assessment is made for this job title due to limited data, but the overall profession has a stable job market with 564 job openings registered. Skills in digitalization, automation, and sustainable development are expected to become increasingly valuable, benefiting quality engineers with specialist knowledge. Opportunities for further education and international careers are especially available within large corporations.

Common questions about Quality Engineer, mining/metallurgy

• What does a Quality Engineer in mining/metallurgy earn?
  - A quality engineer in mining and metallurgy has an average salary of 47 400 SEK/month.
• How do salary differences between women and men compare?
  - Women earn on average 44 900 SEK/month while men have an average salary of 48,500 SEK/month, which means women's salaries are approximately 93% of men's.
• What education is required to work as a quality engineer in mining/metallurgy?
  - A university or engineering degree in a relevant field, such as materials engineering or chemical engineering, is usually required.
• What is the lowest and highest salary for the profession?
  - The lowest salary is 36,900 SEK/month and the highest 48,500 SEK/month.
• What work environments are common for the profession?
  - The work environment varies between offices, laboratories, and industrial settings near production sites.
• What are the future prospects for quality engineers in mining and metallurgy?
  - The outlook is stable with many job openings within the profession, but no precise assessment exists due to limited data.
• What benefits are common for quality engineers?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, insurance, and opportunities for professional development.