Image that illustrates Food worker, bakery

Food worker, bakery

32 500 kr

Machine operators, mill, bakery and confectionery industry

30 500 - 34 600 kr / month

Women earn 108% of what men do.

Industriell tillverkning

What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Food worker, bakery

Average salary 32 500 kr
Males 32 100 kr
Females 34 600 kr

What does a food worker in a bakery do? – Tasks and work environment

A food worker in a bakery is responsible for producing bread, baked goods, and other food products on both industrial and artisanal scales. Tasks include weighing and mixing ingredients, monitoring fermentation processes, baking products, as well as packaging and quality control of finished goods. The work often takes place on production lines where machine handling is combined with manual tasks, and the work environment is characterized by a fast pace, temperature variations, and strict hygiene requirements. Shift work is common, especially in larger bakeries operating around the clock.

Salary development over time

The salary for a food worker in a bakery has varied over the past three years. In 2022, the average was 32 100 SEK, followed by an increase to 34 100 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has stabilized at 32 500 SEK, representing a decrease of approximately 4.7% compared to the previous year. This decline can be explained by changes in demand, inflation impacts on the industry, and an increased supply of labor. Nonetheless, the salary levels have generally remained stable over time, and the profession continues to offer competitive conditions compared to other industrial worker roles.

Food worker, bakery salary – comprehensive overview

  • Average salary: 32 500 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 30,500 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, post-secondary education < 3 years)
  • Highest salary: 34,600 SEK/month (both men and women, various sectors)
  • Hourly wage: 195 SEK (based on 166 hours/month)
  • Gender differences: Women earn 108% of what men do (men: 32 100 SEK, women: 34,600 SEK)
  • Regional differences: Varies depending on location and employer

Education and qualifications

To work as a food worker in a bakery, a high school education within the food program with specialization in bakery and confectionery is typically required. Many employers also seek experience from practical bakery work or relevant internships. For certain tasks, internal training or certifications in hygiene and machinery safety may be necessary.

  • High school education: Food program, specialization in bakery and confectionery (3 years)
  • Practical training: Mandatory work-based learning (APL) during education
  • Internal courses: Hygiene and machinery safety trainings
  • Prerequisites: Basic eligibility from compulsory school
  • Tips for choosing: Interest in food and practical work facilitates career choice

Food workers in bakeries often have the opportunity to work with both traditional and innovative recipes, making the profession appealing to those who want to combine craftsmanship with food technology. Seasonal variations, such as during holidays, can bring additional challenges and variety to the workday. Many companies also encourage the development of new products and flavors.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Food workers in bakeries are often covered by collective agreements that entitle them to overtime pay, shift allowances, wellness contributions, and meal benefits. Other common benefits include work clothing, regular health checks, and opportunities for further training within the company.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for food workers in bakeries is generally stable, but competition can be fierce for the most attractive positions, especially in larger cities or reputable bakeries. Challenges include physically demanding tasks, shift work, and high hygiene and quality standards. Changes in consumption patterns and technological developments can also impact labor demand. Despite this, good opportunities exist for those who are flexible and willing to continuously develop their skills.

Tips for those wanting to become a food worker in a bakery

To succeed as a food worker in a bakery, it is helpful to have a meticulous and resilient attitude, as the job often involves long shifts and monotonous tasks. An interest in food and cooking makes it easier to learn new tasks and follow recipes carefully. Flexibility is an important trait, as shift work and seasonal variations are common. Being cooperative and having good communication skills facilitates teamwork with colleagues on the production line. Finally, a sense of responsibility and the ability to follow safety and hygiene rules are crucial for maintaining the quality of the finished products.

Key facts about food workers in bakeries

  • Education level: High school education in bakery specialization
  • Work environment: Production, often shift work and high hygiene requirements
  • Common employment types: Permanent and hourly employment
  • Demand: High, with 1,437 job openings in the occupational group
  • Special skills: Machinery handling and food hygiene

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years in the profession, a food worker in a bakery can advance to leadership roles such as team leader, supervisor, or production manager. There are also opportunities to further qualify as a master baker or specialize in quality control and product development. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicate continued strong demand within the field, especially due to retirements and a growing food industry. Regional differences exist, with the greatest demand in larger cities and expanding food regions.

Frequently asked questions about food workers in bakeries

  • What does a food worker in a bakery earn?
    - The average salary is 32 500 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 195 SEK.
  • What are the gender differences in salary?
    - Women earn 108% of what men do, with an average salary of 34,600 SEK compared to men's 32 100 SEK.
  • What education is required to work as a food worker in a bakery?
    - A high school education within the food program, specializing in bakery and confectionery, is most common.
  • Are there many job openings in the profession?
    - Yes, there are 1,437 job openings according to the latest survey.
  • How has the salary development looked over recent years?
    - The average salary has varied between 32 100 SEK and 34 100 SEK over the past three years.
  • What workplace risks are present?
    - Common risks include musculoskeletal injuries, high noise levels, and contact with hot surfaces or machinery.
  • Are there opportunities for further education?
    - Yes, many employers offer internal courses and opportunities for specialization.

Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Food worker, bakery is 34600 kr. Both men and women in this profession have the same highest salary and work in the Multiple sectors.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Food worker, bakery is 30500 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Privately employed officials. The lowest salary for a woman in this profession is 33400 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
18-24 97% 27500 kr 34400 kr
25-34 116% 29200 kr 30700 kr
35-44 97% 31600 kr 35500 kr
45-54 108% 29500 kr 32600 kr
55-64 107% 30400 kr 33100 kr
Snitt 108% 29300 kr 32500 kr
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession Food worker, bakery has the SSYK code 8163, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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