Quality techniques, textiles, wood etc.

What does a quality technician in textiles and wood do? – Tasks and work environment

Quality technicians in textiles, wood, and related materials ensure that products meet internal and external quality and safety standards. Their tasks often include developing and monitoring quality processes, performing tests, analyzing results, and documenting deviations. The role requires close collaboration with production, development, and suppliers to continuously improve the production chain. The work environment varies between laboratories, factories, and office settings, where precision, analytical skills, and communication are central parts of daily work.

Salary development over time

The salary for quality technicians in textiles and wood has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 42,200 SEK per month, which increased to 43 700 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary continued upward and is now 45 600 SEK per month. This represents a total salary increase of approximately 8% over the three-year period. The increase is partly explained by a rising demand for technical skills in sustainability, digitalization, and process optimization, as well as a general wage trend within technical professions. The market has shown a stable trend where expertise in quality work is increasingly valued, especially in industries with high requirements for certification and traceability.

Quality technician, textiles, wood, etc. salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 45 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,900 SEK/month (female, private sector, upper secondary education)
• Highest salary: 52,700 SEK/month (male, public sector, research degree)
• Hourly wage (average): 274 SEK
• Men's average salary: 46 500 SEK/month
• Women's average salary: 43 100 SEK/month
• Women earn: 93% of what men do

Education and qualifications

To work as a quality technician in textiles and wood, a technical education at least at upper secondary level is usually required, often supplemented with post-secondary studies in quality engineering, production technology, or similar. Many employers value experience from the industry, especially in quality work, material knowledge, and process control. Specialized certifications and courses in quality assurance and management systems provide additional competitive advantages.

• Upper secondary education: Technical program or industrial technical program (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: Vocational college or university within quality engineering, production technology, or similar (2–3 years)
• Certifications: Examples include ISO 9001, Six Sigma, Lean
• Internship: Industry-specific internship or trainee position is meritorious
• Courses/Continuing education: Material knowledge, metrology, process control

Common benefits and compensations

Quality technicians in textiles and wood are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, opportunities for remote work, and professional development through internal and external training. Additional benefits may include occupational health services, extra vacation days, and bonus systems linked to quality goals or projects. In some cases, pension schemes and insurance solutions are part of the employment package.

Challenges and competition

The market for quality technicians in textiles and wood is characterized by relatively high demand but also increasing requirements for specialized competence. Globalization and digitalization of production mean that technicians need to stay updated on new standards and certifications. Competition can be particularly noticeable in metropolitan areas where more candidates seek leading companies, while smaller towns may find it harder to attract experienced quality technicians. Challenges in the profession include managing rapid changes in technical requirements, implementing sustainable solutions, and ensuring high product quality under tight deadlines.

Tips for those who want to become quality technicians in textiles and wood

To succeed as a quality technician in textiles and wood, it is good to be analytical and meticulous, as the work often involves interpreting data and detecting deviations in production. A structured approach facilitates documentation and adherence to processes and routines. Being communicative is important both for collaborating with colleagues and for explaining quality requirements to production and suppliers. An interest in technology and material development provides advantages, especially when new methods or sustainable solutions are introduced. Flexibility and problem-solving skills are needed to quickly handle changes or urgent quality issues. Engagement in industry-specific networks or training makes it easier to stay updated on new technology and regulations. Finally, patience is a key trait, as quality improvements often require long-term work and systematic follow-up.

Key facts about Quality technicians in textiles, wood, etc.

• Education level: Upper secondary or post-secondary technical education
• Typical work form: Full-time, daytime
• Work environment: Factory, laboratory, and office
• Demand: 564 job openings within the profession
• Special skills: Quality assurance, material analysis, certifications

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, quality technicians in textiles and wood can advance to roles such as quality manager, process developer, or sustainability specialist. It is also common to move into project management or work as a consultant in quality and environmental management. The future outlook is considered good according to the Employment Service, especially for those with specialized skills in digitalization, automation, and sustainability. The demand for quality technicians is expected to remain high, not least due to increasing requirements for certified production and product traceability in both the textile and wood industries.

Frequently asked questions about Quality technicians in textiles, wood, etc.

• What does a quality technician in textiles and wood earn?
  - The average salary is 45 600 SEK per month, with variations depending on education, sector, and experience.
• How do salary differences between men and women look?
  - Men earn on average 46 500 SEK and women 43 100 SEK, which means women earn 93% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a quality technician in textiles and wood?
  - At least a technical education at upper secondary level, often supplemented with post-secondary studies in quality engineering or production technology.
• What is the highest and lowest salary in the profession?
  - The highest salary is 52,700 SEK (male, public sector, research degree) and the lowest is 38,900 SEK (female, private sector, upper secondary education).
• What does the job market look like for quality technicians in textiles and wood?
  - Demand is good and there are 564 job openings within the profession.
• What tasks does a quality technician perform?
  - Tasks include quality control, process development, testing, documentation, and collaboration with production.