Solder, circuit board

What does a Solderer within circuit boards do? – Tasks and work environment

A solderer within circuit boards primarily works on assembling and soldering components onto electronic circuit boards, both manually and with machines. Tasks include following technical drawings, checking component placement, performing quality control, and troubleshooting and fixing soldering errors. The environment is often industrial and may involve working at soldering stations, in production lines, or in cleanrooms depending on production requirements. High precision, patience, and the ability to work with small details are crucial in the profession, as well as following safety regulations regarding handling electronics and chemicals.

Salary development over time

Solderers within circuit boards have experienced positive salary growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,300 SEK per month, which increased to 31 400 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary further rose to 32 600 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 7.6% over three years. The driving factors behind the salary increase include increased demand for skilled workers in electronics manufacturing, technological advancements, and a shortage of experienced assemblers. Despite being part of a larger occupational group, specialized circuit board solderers are particularly valued for their precision and quality requirements, positively impacting salary levels.

Solderer, circuit board salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 32 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,100 SEK/month (female, private sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Highest salary: 34,200 SEK/month (male, regional sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage: 196 SEK/hour
• Women: 31 300 SEK/month
• Men: 33 200 SEK/month
• Women’s share of men’s salary: 94%

Education and qualifications

To work as a solderer within circuit boards, a high school education in electrical, electronics, or industrial fields is typically required. Practical experience in electronics production is highly meritorious, and some employers may require additional courses in advanced soldering techniques. Certifications, such as according to IPC standards, can increase employability. The education pathway is flexible and allows for direct entry after high school or further training at vocational colleges.

• High school education: Industrial technology or electrical and energy programs, 3 years
• Vocational courses: Soldering techniques, electronics assembly
• Certifications: IPC-A-610, IPC J-STD-001 (meritorious)
• Internship: Often part of the education and very valuable
• Prerequisites: Basic technical interest and good vision

Common benefits and compensations

Circuit board solderers are often covered by collective agreements, which include occupational pensions, health insurance, and holiday pay. Employers may also offer wellness allowances, work clothing, and sometimes subsidized lunches or employee discounts. Shift work can provide additional pay, and some workplaces offer bonuses linked to production targets.

Competition and challenges

The profession as a circuit board solderer is characterized by high demand and good job opportunities, but there is competition for the most attractive, highly specialized positions. Challenges include monotonous tasks, precision requirements under time pressure, and risk of musculoskeletal injuries. Technological development demands ongoing training and the ability to handle new materials and methods. The industry is also affected by economic fluctuations and global supply chains, which can influence workload and job security.

Tips for those who want to become a circuit board solderer

To succeed as a circuit board solderer, it is beneficial to have a genuine attention to detail and patience, ensuring solder joints are correct from the start. A technical interest facilitates learning new tasks and machines, and a continuous desire to develop technical skills is an asset. Good teamwork skills are important since work often occurs in teams, especially on larger production lines. Flexibility and problem-solving skills are needed to quickly address errors and adapt to changing production requirements. Being quality-conscious and maintaining focus even during repetitive tasks contributes to good results and minimizes mistakes.

Key facts about circuit board solderers

• Education level: Most commonly high school vocational training
• Work environment: Industrial, often at soldering stations or in production lines
• Demand: Great opportunities for work nationally
• Special knowledge: Soldering techniques and component placement
• Work form: Usually full-time, sometimes shift work

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience, a circuit board solderer can advance to roles such as supervisor, production technician, or quality manager within electronics manufacturing. Specialization in prototype development or advanced troubleshooting opens opportunities in development teams or testing laboratories. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, job opportunities within the occupational group “Assemblers of electrical and electronic equipment” are large and expected to remain stable over five years. The industry also faces recruitment challenges, which benefits both new and experienced job seekers. Currently, there are 1,437 job openings in the group, reflecting ongoing demand for skills in the field.

Frequently asked questions about circuit board solderers

• What is the salary of a circuit board solderer?
  - The average salary is 32 600 SEK/month, with the highest at 34,200 SEK and the lowest at 30,100 SEK.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 31 300 SEK and men 33 200 SEK, which means women earn 94% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a solderer within circuit boards?
  - A high school education in electrical, electronics, or industrial fields is recommended, often supplemented with practical courses and certifications.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Job opportunities are considered ample and expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What benefits are usually included?
  - Collective agreements, occupational pensions, wellness allowances, work clothing, and sometimes production bonuses.
• What is the work environment like?
  - Industrial environment, often at soldering stations or in production lines, sometimes with shift work and repetitive tasks.
• Are there opportunities for further development?
  - Yes, experienced solderers can become supervisors, production technicians, or specialists in prototype development.