Varnishes, industry

What does a painter within the industry do? – Tasks and work environment

An industrial painter primarily works with applying protective and decorative coatings to metals, plastics, or other materials within manufacturing industries. Tasks include surface pre-treatment, mixing paints and coatings, and precise application using spray guns or other tools in specialized spray booths. High demands are placed on accuracy, precision, and safety, especially since work often occurs in environments with strong chemicals and ventilation systems. The work environment can be noisy and requires protective gear such as respirators and coveralls to minimize health and safety risks.

Salary development over time

Industrial painters have experienced some variation in salary development over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 32,600 SEK per month, which decreased slightly to 31 800 SEK in 2023. Subsequently, the salary increased significantly to 33 400 SEK in 2024, corresponding to an increase of about 5% from the previous year. This recovery can be explained by increased demand for qualified painters within the industry and a greater focus on surface protection and finishing in manufacturing processes. Salary variations may also depend on changes in collective agreements, regional differences, and gender-based disparities within the profession.

Painter within the industry salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,700 SEK/month (female), 32,700 SEK/month (male)
• Highest salary: 33,000 SEK/month (female), 35,600 SEK/month (male)
• Hourly wage (average): 201 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 94% of men's salary (31,700 SEK vs 33 700 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data varies, but salaries are influenced by geographic location and the size of the industry locally

Education and qualifications

To work as an industrial painter, a high school education with a focus on industrial technology or vehicle technology is usually required, often with additional courses in painting or surface treatment. Many employers also value practical experience, which can be obtained through internships or apprenticeships. Specialized courses and certifications in workplace safety, chemical handling, or advanced spray painting can be advantageous.

• High school education: Industrial technical programs (3 years) with specialization in surface treatment/painting
• Certifications: Courses in chemical handling, environmental and workplace safety
• Practical experience: Apprenticeships or internships with industrial companies
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition, precision, and interest in technology
• Further education: Opportunities to take specialized courses or further training to become technicians or supervisors

Common benefits and compensations

Industrial painters are often covered by collective agreements that provide entitlement to holiday pay, overtime pay, and occupational pension. Other common benefits include wellness allowances, work clothing, subsidized lunches, and sometimes bonuses for meeting production targets. Access to further training and safety equipment is also standard.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as an industrial painter can vary depending on region and economic conditions. Despite there being 1,437 current job vacancies, having the right education and practical experience is crucial to stand out in the job market. Challenges include physically demanding tasks, strict quality requirements, and exposure to chemicals, which place high demands on work environment and safety. Additionally, automation and technological development may influence the demand for traditional painter roles, while specialized skills become increasingly important.

Tips for aspiring industrial painters

To succeed as an industrial painter, it’s important to develop both technical precision and attention to detail. Endurance and good physical condition facilitate the often monotonous and physically demanding tasks. A strong safety mindset is essential, especially when handling chemicals and machinery, to ensure routines are always followed. Good communication skills are valuable, as collaboration with colleagues, supervisors, and sometimes clients is part of daily work. Showing interest in new methods or techniques can open doors to further training and faster career progression. Flexibility is also an asset, as work tasks can vary between projects and companies. Lastly, responsibility and punctuality are appreciated in an industry where production flow is high and quality standards are constantly maintained.

Key facts about industrial painters

• Education level: High school education with a focus on industrial technology or vehicle technology
• Work environment: Industrial workshop environment requiring protective equipment
• Work form: Full-time, often shift work
• Demand: 1,437 job vacancies within the profession in Sweden
• Gender differences: Women earn on average 94% of men's salaries

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years in the profession, opportunities open for further education to become a supervisor, surface treatment technician, or specialized painter responsible for advanced projects. Some choose to become quality inspectors or trainers for new employees. Forecasts from the Employment Service are uncertain due to limited data, but there is a continuous need for experienced industrial painters, especially in regions with strong manufacturing industries. Automation and new technology may change job tasks, but the need for skilled professionals is expected to persist in the medium term. The possibility to transition to related professions, such as industrial painter or surface treatment technician, is also good.

Common questions about industrial painters

• What does an industrial painter earn?
  - The average salary is 33 400 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, gender, and employer.
• What education is required to become an industrial painter?
  - High school education with a focus on industrial technology or vehicle technology is recommended, preferably supplemented with practical training.
• Are there differences between men and women in the profession?
  - Yes, women earn on average 94% of what men do within the profession.
• What is the work environment like for painters?
  - The work is performed in industrial workshop environments and requires protective equipment due to chemicals and noise.
• How many job openings are there for painters within the industry?
  - Currently, there are 1,437 job vacancies in Sweden.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, work clothing, and opportunities for further training.
• Can I further my education within the profession?
  - Yes, further education to become a technician, supervisor, or specialized painter is common after a few years in the profession.