Teacher, engineering and industrial technology

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

Teachers in workshop and industrial technology are responsible for educating students in vocational subjects related to technology, production, and industrial processes. Teaching primarily takes place in upper secondary vocational programs, adult education, or within corporate training. The role includes planning and conducting theoretical and practical lessons, supervising students in workshop environments, and ensuring safety regulations are followed. The work environment varies between classrooms, workshops, and sometimes industrial facilities, requiring both practical and pedagogical skills. Together with industry partners, the content of teaching is also developed to meet current industry requirements.

Salary development over time

Salaries for teachers in workshop and industrial technology have steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 39,100 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 40 200 SEK in 2023. By 2024, the average salary rose further to 41 600 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 6.4% over three years. This positive trend reflects increased demand for qualified vocational teachers and the industry's need for modern technical skills. Salaries are also influenced by factors such as educational level, employment type, and gender, with relatively small differences within the profession. A shortage of qualified teachers and technological advancements have contributed to ongoing salary increases.

Teachers in workshop and industrial technology salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 41 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,400 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, upper secondary education)
• Highest salary: 47,600 SEK/month (male, private sector, research degree)
• Hourly wage: 250 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 99% of what men do (men 41 800 SEK, women 41 300 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data on regional variations are unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a teacher in workshop and industrial technology, a vocational teacher degree focusing on workshop or industry is usually required, often combined with industry experience. The education includes both pedagogy and subject knowledge, and prior work experience in the industry is common before entering the teaching profession. Practical components and supervision are important parts of the training path.

• Formal degree: Vocational teacher degree (3–4 years) with focus on workshop or industry
• Industry experience: Several years of work experience within workshop or industrial technology
• Pedagogical training: Supplementary pedagogical courses for vocational teachers
• Practical training: Workplace-based training (VFU) as part of teacher education
• Certifications: Certain specialized areas may require specific certificates

Common benefits and compensations

Teachers in workshop and industrial technology often enjoy collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, insurance, and holiday pay. Many employers also offer wellness allowances, further training, and opportunities for skills development in both pedagogy and technology. Flexible working hours and extra pay for unsociable hours are available in some employment forms.

Competitive landscape and challenges

The demand for teachers in workshop and industrial technology is high, but there is a paradoxical situation where recruitment difficulties are common despite high unemployment in certain segments. The shortage of qualified teachers reduces competition for positions, but the requirements for technical and pedagogical competence are high. Challenges include keeping up with rapid technological development, adapting teaching to diverse student groups, and collaborating with industry to create relevant training programs. The profession also requires managing a varied work environment and sometimes large student groups, demanding both structure and flexibility.

Tips for aspiring teachers in workshop and industrial technology

To succeed as a teacher in workshop and industrial technology, it is beneficial to have strong pedagogical skills and a genuine interest in technology. Being communicative helps explain complex concepts simply, while patience and responsiveness are crucial to meet students’ diverse needs. Gaining practical industry experience and continuously developing subject knowledge through further education is recommended. Collaboration skills are important since contact with colleagues and industry partners is a significant part of the job, and a creative approach can facilitate adapting teaching to new technological solutions. Being organized helps in planning both theory and practical sessions, giving students the best conditions to succeed.

Key facts about teachers in workshop and industrial technology

• Educational level: Vocational teacher degree and practical experience
• Work environment: School, workshop, and industrial environments
• Demand: Great job opportunities nationwide
• Typical employment: Full-time, permanent employment
• Number of job openings: 434 within the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a teacher in workshop and industrial technology, there are opportunities to advance into leadership roles such as program coordinator, training leader, or subject manager. Further education and involvement in school development can also lead to roles like principal or project manager for collaboration initiatives between school and industry. The Employment Service’s forecasts indicate that job opportunities are abundant and expected to remain stable over five years, ensuring a steady job market for the profession. However, recruitment difficulties persist, making qualified teachers especially sought after. The ongoing development of technology and industry emphasizes the importance of continuous skills development to meet future needs.

Frequently asked questions about teachers in workshop and industrial technology

• What is the salary of a teacher in workshop and industrial technology?
  - The average salary is 41 600 SEK per month, with variations depending on education, experience, and employment type.
• What education is required to become a teacher in workshop and industrial technology?
  - A vocational teacher degree focusing on workshop or industry, along with industry experience, is usually required.
• What does the job market look like for teachers in workshop and industrial technology?
  - The Employment Service assesses that job opportunities are plentiful and that demand will remain unchanged over the next five years.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, but the differences are small. Women earn approximately 99% of what men do within the profession.
• What common benefits are included in the profession?
  - Occupational pension, wellness allowance, holiday pay, and opportunities for skills development are common.
• What is the hourly wage for hourly-paid teachers?
  - The hourly wage for an hourly-paid teacher in workshop and industrial technology is 250 SEK.
• What career opportunities are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Opportunities include advancing to roles such as program coordinator, training leader, or taking on development assignments within the school.