Teacher, process engineering

What does a teacher in process technology do? – Tasks and work environment

A teacher in process technology is responsible for educating students at upper secondary or post-secondary levels in subjects related to industrial processes, automation, and production systems. The tasks include planning and conducting both theoretical and practical lessons, supervising students during laboratory work, and assessing knowledge and skills. The work environment often involves both classroom teaching and time in workshops or laboratories, where safety and technical equipment are central elements. Contact with industry is common, for example through collaboration with companies for internships or guest lectures.

Salary development over time

Salaries for teachers in process technology have shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 39,100 SEK per month, increasing to 40 200 SEK in 2023. The latest figure from 2024 shows a continued increase to 41 600 SEK. The total salary increase over the period is approximately 6.4%, reflecting ongoing demand for technical and industrial teaching skills. The market is influenced by the increased need for technically knowledgeable teachers, while the level of education and specialization within process technology contribute to positive salary trends. Recruitment difficulties within the profession may also have driven wages upward.

Teacher in process technology salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 41 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,400 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, 3-year upper secondary education)
• Highest salary: 47,600 SEK/month (male, private sector, doctoral degree)
• Hourly wage: 250 SEK
• Women earn: 41 300 SEK (99% of men's salary, men: 41 800 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data missing

Education and qualifications

To work as a teacher in process technology, a combination of pedagogical training and solid professional experience in process industry or engineering is required. Usually, a vocational teacher degree is needed, often supplemented with university courses in technology or science and practical work experience in industry. Further training and specialization in specific process technical areas are also possible.

• Vocational teacher degree: 3–4 years of university or college studies
• Work experience: Several years of experience in process industry or related technical fields
• Additional courses: For example in automation, process control, or safety
• Internship: Teaching internship during training is mandatory
• Pedagogical qualification: Requirement for teaching license for permanent employment

Common benefits and compensations

Teachers in process technology are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, insurance, and holiday pay. Opportunities for professional development, wellness allowances, and sometimes extra compensation for supervision or mentorship are common. Employment forms vary between municipal, private, and government employers, and some positions may include benefits like flexible working hours or access to technical equipment.

Competition and challenges

The profession is characterized by a paradoxical labor market situation where demand for teachers in process technology is high, but there is a shortage of qualified candidates. Many employers experience recruitment difficulties, especially outside metropolitan areas. Challenges also include rapid technological changes in industry, requiring continuous further training and curriculum updates. Additionally, workload can vary depending on school resources and student base, affecting opportunities for individual teaching and support.

Tips for those who want to become teachers in process technology

To succeed as a teacher in process technology, curiosity about technology and a desire to constantly learn new things are important, as the industry develops rapidly. Being pedagogical and able to explain complex processes simply and engagingly to different student groups is crucial. Good collaboration skills facilitate cooperation with colleagues and the local industry, especially in planning internships and projects. Being organized helps manage both teaching and administrative tasks efficiently. Flexibility is also vital, as the work environment can vary between classrooms, workshops, and industrial settings. Patience and attentiveness to students from different backgrounds create a safe learning environment and contribute to a positive learning climate. Finally, it is valuable to take initiative for further education and networking within the technical field.

Key facts about teachers in process technology

• Education level: Vocational teacher degree with a technical focus
• Work environment: Varies between classroom, workshop, and laboratory
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide
• Work form: Usually full-time, often daytime
• Competence requirements: Combination of pedagogy and industrial work experience

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a teacher in process technology, opportunities exist to advance to roles such as program coordinator, lecturer, or training manager. Continuing professional development can lead to specialization in areas like automation, sustainable production, or digitalization of the process industry. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, opportunities in the profession are large, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Recruitment difficulties in finding qualified teachers make expertise in process industry particularly attractive. In Sweden, there were recently 434 available jobs in the profession, indicating good prospects for new and experienced teachers in process technology.

Frequently asked questions about teachers in process technology

• What is the salary of a teacher in process technology?
  - A teacher in process technology has an average salary of 41 600 SEK per month.
• What does the salary range look like for the profession?
  - The lowest salary is 34,400 SEK and the highest salary is 47,600 SEK per month.
• Is there a difference between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn on average 41 800 SEK and women 41 300 SEK, which means women earn 99% of men's salaries.
• What are the requirements to become a teacher in process technology?
  - A vocational teacher degree with a technical focus and work experience in process industry are required.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The job market is considered very good with great opportunities for employment nationwide.
• What tasks are included?
  - Teaching, supervision, curriculum planning, and collaboration with industry are central tasks.
• How high is the demand for teachers in process technology?
  - There are currently 434 job openings in the profession.