Cable car

What does a cable car operator do? – Tasks and working environment

A cable car operator is responsible for monitoring and operating cable cars used for passenger or freight transport, often within industry, construction projects, or tourism. The job involves daily inspection of the cable car's technical functions, safety checks, and basic maintenance and troubleshooting during operation disruptions. The cable car operator works closely with technicians and other operators to ensure safe and efficient operation. The working environment can range from outdoor conditions in harsh weather to industrial facilities, where high safety standards and constant attention to risks are crucial.

Salary development over time

The salary for cable car operators has shown some variation in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 35,500 SEK per month, increasing to 37 200 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the salary has slightly decreased to 36 100 SEK per month, a reduction of about 3% compared to the previous year. This change may be due to various factors, such as shifts in demand for labor or collective bargaining negotiations within the profession. Despite a temporary decline, the salary remains at a stable level, indicating that the profession continues to be attractive in the job market. Overall, salary development follows the trend for crane operators, where regional differences and variations across sectors can occur.

Cable car operator salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 36 100 SEK/month
• Lowest/Highest salary: No data on range, but the average salary is stable
• Hourly wage: 217 SEK/hour (based on 166 working hours/month)
• Gender differences: Only data for men: 36 100 SEK/month. Specific figures for women are not available
• Regional differences: No specific data, but variations may occur depending on project and location

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a cable car operator typically involves vocational training, practical experience, and on-the-job training. Formal requirements vary depending on the employer and type of cable car, but basic technical understanding and safety awareness are essential. Further training in machinery or crane handling can be advantageous, as well as certifications for working at heights or in specific industrial environments.

• Vocational training: Often a three-year upper secondary education in technology, electrical work, or industry
• Certifications: Licensing for cranes or machinery may be required
• Practical experience: On-the-job training is common and valuable
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition, technical interest, and safety consciousness
• Additional training: Courses in work environment, working at heights, and first aid are recommended

Common benefits and compensations

Cable car operators are often covered by collective agreements that include additional pay for unsociable hours, overtime, and sometimes per diems for work in other locations. Other common benefits include wellness allowances, work clothing, insurance, and opportunities for further training. Some employers may also provide staff accommodation or travel allowances, especially for long-term projects.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a cable car operator varies depending on region and projects. Since the profession belongs to a smaller occupational group and often requires specialized skills, the job market is relatively stable, but the number of available positions may be limited. Challenges include maintaining high safety standards, working in changing weather conditions, and quickly fixing technical faults. Technological innovations and automation also influence the role, requiring continuous skills development.

Tips for those who want to become a cable car operator

To succeed as a cable car operator, it is important to be meticulous and have a strong safety mindset, as the tasks often involve responsibility for both technology and people's safety. A practical person with technical interest has a great advantage, especially when troubleshooting and maintaining the equipment. Showing initiative and being flexible is also valuable, as workdays can vary and unforeseen situations often arise. Good teamwork skills facilitate work in larger facilities or projects. Being able to handle stress and make quick decisions is crucial during operational disruptions or emergencies. Finally, applicants should be prepared to work outdoors in various weather conditions and sometimes at inconvenient hours, which requires endurance and adaptability.

Key facts about cable car operators

• Education level: Vocational upper secondary education in technology/industry
• Work environment: Varied, both outdoor and industrial settings
• Work pattern: Shift work and seasonal variations are common
• Demand: 379 job openings in spring 2024
• Special skills: Safety procedures, technical maintenance, and working at heights

Career paths and future outlook

After gaining some years of experience, a cable car operator can advance to supervisory roles, technical specialists, or trainers within cable car operations. There are also opportunities to broaden skills into other areas of machinery and crane handling, which can lead to more qualified positions and higher salaries. Forecasts from the Employment Service show that, due to limited data, there is no detailed assessment of the future outlook for cable car operators specifically, but the entire crane operator group shows stable demand, with 379 job openings registered in spring 2024. Technological advances, safety requirements, and infrastructure projects will continue to influence the need for skilled cable car operators.

Frequently asked questions about cable car operators

• What does a cable car operator earn?
  - A cable car operator has an average salary of 36 100 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 217 SEK.
• What education is required to become a cable car operator?
  - Typically, a vocational education in technology or industry, along with practical training and possibly certifications, is required.
• What is the working environment like for a cable car operator?
  - The work environment varies, often outdoors or at industrial sites, and may involve working at heights and in shifts.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Only salary statistics for men are available; specific data on women's salaries are not provided.
• What are the future prospects for cable car operators?
  - There is no detailed forecast, but 379 job openings were registered within the profession in spring 2024.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Accuracy, technical interest, safety awareness, stress resistance, and teamwork skills are central qualities.
• What benefits can be included in the job?
  - Common benefits include overtime pay, insurance, wellness contributions, and sometimes staff accommodation or per diems.