Machine engraving, print media

What does a masking engraver in print media do? – Tasks and work environment

A masking engraver in print media works with preparing and engraving printing plates or cylinders used in various printing processes. Tasks include manual engraving and digital processing methods, where precision and accuracy are crucial for the final result. The work is often done in close collaboration with printers, prepress technicians, and other specialists in graphic production. The work environment is typically technically oriented and can be workshop-based and production-oriented, often involving shift work and ergonomic considerations. Safety procedures and quality assurance are integral parts of daily work.

Salary development over time

The salary development for masking engravers in print media has shown a stable but slightly declining trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,000 SEK per month, rising to 34 800 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has been adjusted slightly downward to 34 700 SEK. This change represents a total increase of approximately 5.1% from 2022 to 2024, but a marginal decrease of 0.3% in the past year. Variations can partly be explained by changes in demand for the profession and some uncertainty related to technological developments in the printing industry. Despite broad demand for prepress technicians and printers in the industry, salary levels remain relatively stable, indicating that industry development is more influenced by structural changes than by acute labor shortages.

Masking engraver, print media salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 34 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,800 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 37,800 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 209 SEK
• Men's average salary: 37 700 SEK/month
• Women's average salary: 31 900 SEK/month
• Women earn: 85% of what men do
• Regional differences: Limited data, but variations may occur depending on industry location

Education and qualifications

To work as a masking engraver in print media, a technical education focusing on printing technology, graphic production, or equivalent is usually required. Many employers prefer high school qualifications in relevant fields, but further training at the workplace and specialized courses in engraving techniques and digital processes are common. Practical experience and a good understanding of printing processes are highly meritorious.

• High school education: Graphic technology or industrial production (3 years)
• Specialized courses: Engraving techniques, CAD/CAM, color management
• Internship: Often required, including workplace-based training or apprenticeships
• Prerequisites: Technical understanding and good fine motor skills
• Certifications: Meritorious but rarely a formal requirement

Common benefits and compensations

Masking engravers in the print media industry are often covered by collective agreements that provide occupational pension, holiday pay, and sometimes wellness allowances. Other common benefits include subsidized lunches, work clothing, and sometimes opportunities for further training at the employer's expense. Shift work may involve overtime pay and additional compensation.

Competitions and challenges

Competition in the profession of masking engraver in print media is affected by technological developments and the shift to digital workflows. Demand for traditional engraving skills has decreased somewhat, while specialization in digital printing becomes increasingly important. Limited access to trained masking engravers can give advantages to those with the right skills, but the industry is sensitive to economic fluctuations and changing customer demands. The profession requires continuous development of technical skills and adaptation to new working methods. The lack of formal training pathways can increase competition for internships and apprenticeships.

Tips for those who want to become a masking engraver in print media

To succeed as a masking engraver, it is beneficial to have a meticulous and analytical mindset, as the work requires high precision in both manual and digital processes. An interest in technology and machinery facilitates learning new tools and software, which is crucial to keep up with industry developments. Good teamwork skills are important since work is often done in teams and in close dialogue with other specialists in production. Being solution-oriented can help with troubleshooting and adapting to customer requests. Flexibility and willingness to continue education are appreciated, especially as the industry evolves rapidly. Finally, patience and perseverance are essential for handling long work moments and quality demands.

Key facts about masking engravers in print media

• Education level: High school education with a technical focus is most common
• Work environment: Production-oriented and sometimes shift-based
• Typical employment: Full-time, often covered by collective agreements
• Demand: 1,437 job openings in 2024
• Special skills: Engraving techniques, digital image handling, color management

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a masking engraver in print media can develop into more specialized roles, such as team leader, technical specialist, or production planner within the graphic industry. Many choose to further their education in digital printing technology or CAD-based production to meet increasing industry demands for technical competence. According to the forecasts from the Employment Service, future prospects are hard to assess, as the profession is part of a broader group with no precise evaluation. However, the number of job openings indicates continued demand, especially for those combining traditional engraving skills with digital expertise. Technological developments also open opportunities within security printing, packaging design, and other niche areas.

Common questions about masking engravers in print media

• What does a masking engraver earn in print media?
  - The average salary is 34 700 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of about 209 SEK.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn on average 37 700 SEK and women 31 900 SEK, which means women earn 85% of men's wages.
• What education is required to become a masking engraver in print media?
  - High school education in graphic technology or industrial production is most common, supplemented with specialized courses and internships.
• What does the job market look like?
  - There are 1,437 job openings within the profession, and demand remains stable, especially for those with digital skills.
• What are the most common job tasks?
  - Engraving printing plates, preparing print media, quality control, and collaboration with printers and technicians.
• Is there potential for further development?
  - Yes, advancing to specialist roles or further education in digital printing technology is common.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries?
  - The highest salary is 37,800 SEK and the lowest 31,800 SEK, depending on gender and employment type.