Laminator, metal

What does a laminator within metal do? – Tasks and work environment

A laminator within metal mainly works with applying various types of coatings or layers on metal components, often to improve durability, corrosion protection, or to give specific technical properties. The tasks include preparing metal surfaces, handling laminating machines, and monitoring processes to ensure quality standards are met. The work often takes place in industrial environments where safety routines are central, and the work environment is characterized by machine noise, requirements for protective equipment, and a high focus on precision. It is common to work independently and in teams, especially on larger production lines.

Wage development over time

The salary for laminators within metal has shown positive development over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,100 SEK per month, which increased to 32 800 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary is 35,200 SEK, corresponding to a total increase of approximately 13.2% over the period. This increase partly reflects a higher demand for qualified industrial workers and general wage growth within the technology and process industries. Differences between genders remain, which affects the average. The market for laminators remains stable, but some variation may occur depending on region and specific company establishments.

Laminate within metal – salary and conditions

• Average salary: 35,200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 32,400 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 36,200 SEK/month
• Average hourly wage: 212 SEK
• Women: 32,400 SEK/month
• Men: 35 700 SEK/month
• Women earn: 91% of men's salary
• Regional differences: The highest salaries are found within the Regional sector for men; variations occur depending on workplace and education level

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a laminator within metal usually involves upper secondary vocational programs in industry, technology, or production. Additional courses in surface treatment or machine operation may also be required. Practical experience is highly valued, and many employers offer internal training or trainee programs to ensure the right competence level. For some specialized tasks, certifications or specific training certificates may be necessary, especially in larger industries or for advanced technology.

• Upper secondary vocational education: Industrial technology programs, 3 years
• Internal training: Often offered through company-internal courses and introductory programs
• Certifications: May be required for certain work tasks or safety-sensitive environments
• Practical training: Workplace-based learning or internships are common
• Prerequisites: Basic technical knowledge and good physical condition

Common benefits and compensations

Laminators within metal are often offered benefits such as overtime pay, shift and unsocial hours allowances, and wellness contributions. Work clothes, subsidized lunch, and insurance through collective agreements are also common. In some cases, skills development and opportunities for further education are included as benefits.

Competitions and challenges

The competition within the profession of laminators within metal is affected by the availability of qualified labor and technological development within manufacturing. A challenge is that the tasks can sometimes be monotonous and physically demanding, requiring endurance and precision. Automation of production processes increases demands on technical understanding, while some simpler tasks may disappear. For those wishing to develop within the profession, it is therefore important to continuously update their skills in new machine systems and processes. The availability of job openings is relatively good within the profession, although salary development and conditions may vary regionally.

Tips for those who want to become a laminator within metal

To succeed as a laminator within metal, it is good to have a genuine interest in technology and industrial processes. Precision is a crucial trait, as the work often requires following quality standards exactly at each step. Being flexible and adaptable facilitates when machines and methods change quickly. Collaboration skills are important, especially in larger production environments where teamwork is part of everyday life, and it is also valuable to be solution-oriented to handle unexpected situations quickly. An initiative-taking attitude often provides advantages when proposing improvements or efficiencies in production. A practical tip is to take opportunities for internships or summer jobs in the industry to gain early insight into the work environment and build valuable contacts. Finally, it is wise to continuously follow developments in material technology and automation to maintain competitiveness in the job market.

Key facts about laminators within metal

• Educational level: Upper secondary vocational education recommended
• Work environment: Industrial production, often shift work
• Demand: 1,437 job openings in the profession according to current statistics
• Gender distribution: Women earn 91% of men's salary
• Special skills: Experience in machine handling and surface treatment highly valued

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a laminator within metal, there are opportunities to advance to leadership roles such as supervisor, process manager, or surface treatment technician. For those interested in technology and further education, roles within production technology or quality control may be relevant. According to the Employment Service's forecast for machine operators within surface treatment, no separate assessment is made for this specific profession due to limited data, but there are a total of 1,437 job openings in the profession. The future is considered stable, especially for those willing to further develop their skills in automation and advanced process management. Regional variations may occur, but demand for qualified laminators remains strong in larger industrial cities.

Frequently asked questions about laminators within metal

• What does a laminator within metal earn?
  - The average salary is 35,200 SEK per month, but varies depending on experience, gender, and region.
• What education is required to become a laminator within metal?
  - Upper secondary vocational education in industry or technology is recommended, often supplemented with internal courses or internships.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 91% of what men do in the profession.
• What does the work environment look like?
  - The work occurs in industrial environments with machine noise and requirements for protective equipment, often in shifts.
• What career opportunities are there after a few years?
  - Opportunities to advance to supervisor, process manager, or surface treatment technician are available.
• How many job openings are there in the profession?
  - Currently, there are 1,437 job openings in machine operation, surface treatment.
• What is the highest salary for a laminator within metal?
  - The highest salary is 36,200 SEK, which applies to a man with upper secondary education within the Regional sector.