Laminator, printing

What does a laminator do in a printing house? – Tasks and work environment

A laminator in a printing house is responsible for applying protective plastic films or other laminates to printed materials such as posters, packaging, and brochures. The tasks include setting up and monitoring laminating machines, ensuring materials are fed correctly, and that the final product maintains high quality without bubbles or wrinkles. The work environment involves both standing and moving around, often in production facilities with a fast pace and machine noise. Precision and the ability to quickly detect errors are central, as products must meet both aesthetic and technical standards.

Salary development over time

The salary for a laminator in a printing house has shown varied development over recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,100 SEK per month. In 2023, the average slightly decreased to 32 500 SEK, but then a clear increase was noted to 35 000 SEK in 2024. This increase corresponds to a salary rise of about 7.7% from 2023 to 2024, which is significantly higher than the average for many other professions. The rise can be explained by increased demand for skilled printing workers and technical competence, as well as industry investments in new technology requiring more specialized labor. The salary trend also indicates that competition for competent laminators has intensified, especially in regions with many printing companies.

Laminator, printing house salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 35 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 32,000 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 37,000 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 210 SEK/hour
• Women's average salary: 32,000 SEK/month (89% of men's salary)
• Men's average salary: 35 800 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on region and demand for printing personnel.

Education and qualifications

To work as a laminator in a printing house, a high school education in graphic technology, printing, or equivalent practical experience from a production environment is usually required. Some employers offer internal training or require specific courses in material handling and machinery technology. Internships and trainee programs are common pathways into the profession, especially for young people seeking to establish themselves in the industry. Knowledge of machine safety and quality control is advantageous and sometimes a requirement.

• High school education: Graphic technology or industrial technology, 3 years
• Courses in machinery technology: Often offered by the employer
• Internship or trainee: Common entry route into the profession
• Prerequisites: Knowledge of machinery and materials recommended
• Certifications: Special training certificates may be required for certain machines

Common benefits and compensations

Laminators in printing houses are often covered by collective agreements that entitle them to overtime pay, night shift allowances, and extra vacation days. Other common benefits include wellness allowances, work clothing, subsidized lunches, and sometimes bonuses based on production goals. Some workplaces also offer training opportunities and possibilities for further development within the company.

Competition and challenges

The job market for laminators in printing houses is competitive, especially in metropolitan regions where many printing companies are established. Challenges include keeping up with new technology and machinery, as well as delivering high quality under time pressure. The work environment can be physically demanding and requires continuous precision. Another challenge is adapting to seasonal variations and fluctuating workloads, as demand for printed products can change rapidly. Technical problems and quality deviations must be handled quickly to avoid production stoppages.

Tips for those who want to become laminators in printing

To succeed as a laminator in a printing house, it is important to have a keen eye for detail, as the work requires constant quality checks. Good teamwork skills make it easier to work in production teams where tasks are often closely interconnected. Technical interest and willingness to learn new machines facilitate the transition to modern printing environments. Being resilient under stress is an advantage, as the pace can be high and deliveries need to be made on time. Flexibility and problem-solving skills are appreciated, as unexpected challenges can arise during production. Showing responsibility and an independent work style makes it easier to take initiative, which is often valued by employers. Lastly, having a sense for color and materials can contribute to achieving the highest possible quality in the final product.

Key facts about laminators in printing houses

• Education level: High school diploma in graphic technology is common
• Work environment: Production environment with machinery and some noise exposure
• Typical work form: Shift work or daytime depending on the workplace
• Demand: 1,437 job openings in the profession in Sweden
• Special skills: Material knowledge and machinery skills highly valued

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years in the profession, a laminator can advance to roles such as machine supervisor, production manager, or quality technician within the printing industry. There are also opportunities to develop towards technical support, trainer for new laminators, or further education in graphic production. According to the Employment Service, the future outlook is good, with continued demand for printing personnel and technically skilled operators. The profession is somewhat sensitive to changes in demand for printed products, but digitalization and increased requirements for customized solutions can create new opportunities for those willing to develop further. Regionally, competition may vary, but the overall picture is that the job market is stable with some growth.

Common questions about laminators in printing houses

• What does a laminator earn in a printing house?
  - The average salary is 35 000 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and region.
• How does the salary development look for laminators?
  - Salary development has been positive in recent years, with an increase of about 7.7% from 2023 to 2024.
• What education is required to become a laminator?
  - High school education in graphic technology is most common, but practical experience and internal courses are also available.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 32,000 SEK while men earn 35 800 SEK, which means women have 89% of men's salary level.
• What occupational hazards exist for laminators?
  - Risks include noise, heavy lifting, and working with machinery, but these are managed through safety routines and protective equipment.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The outlook is good with over 1,400 job openings in the profession and continued demand in the market.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Attention to detail, technical interest, and teamwork skills are especially valuable qualities for a laminator in a printing house.