Machine operator, bleaching, dyeing and washing

What does a machine operator in bleaching, dyeing, and washing do? – Tasks and work environment

A machine operator in bleaching, dyeing, and washing primarily works within the textile and process industry, monitoring and controlling machines that treat materials according to specific requirements for color, cleanliness, and finish. Responsibilities include preparing machines, measuring and adding chemicals, monitoring process progress, and performing ongoing checks and quality tests. The operator also documents process data and, if necessary, fixes minor operational issues. The work environment is often industrial, requiring precision, safety, and the ability to work independently and in teams. Protective equipment is regularly used due to chemical handling and noise from the machines.

Salary development over time

The salary for a machine operator in bleaching, dyeing, and washing has shown steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 26,600 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased slightly to 26 500 SEK, but a more notable rise was recorded in 2024, reaching 27 800 SEK. This represents an overall salary increase of approximately 8 percent during this period. This trend can be partly explained by an increased focus on industrial skills and demand for experienced operators, along with general industry wage adjustments due to inflation and labor market conditions. The trend indicates that the profession is valued increasingly highly, especially for those with technical knowledge and experience with automated processes.

Machine operator, bleaching, dyeing, and washing salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 27 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 23,400 SEK/month (male, government sector, high school education 3 years)
• Highest salary: 30,000 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage (average): 167 SEK
• Women: 27 900 SEK/month
• Men: 27 700 SEK/month
• Gender differences: Women earn roughly the same as men in this profession

Education and qualifications

To work as a machine operator in bleaching, dyeing, and washing, a high school education in industry, technology, or a related field is usually required, often supplemented with internal company training. Practical experience, technical skills, and understanding of processes are valuable merits. In some cases, specific certifications or courses in chemical handling or machine safety may be required.

• High school education: Industry, technology, or process-oriented (3 years)
• Certifications: Courses in chemical handling and occupational safety
• Internship: Often part of the training program
• Internal training: Companies typically offer introductory programs and machine-specific training
• Prerequisites: Basic technical interest and good physical health

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for machine operators in this industry include shift allowances for unsociable hours, extra vacation days, wellness contributions, and the provision of work clothing and protective gear. Some employers also offer skills development and bonuses based on production results.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a machine operator in bleaching, dyeing, and washing is generally moderate but can vary depending on region and economic conditions. Challenges in the profession include managing a high pace of work, strictly following safety routines, and quickly adapting to new technology or process changes. The process industry imposes high demands on quality and efficiency, meaning that even small mistakes can have significant consequences. Physically demanding tasks and exposure to chemicals are also common, requiring good health and attention to detail. The lack of clear future forecasts makes flexibility and willingness to further educate oneself particularly important qualities.

Tips for those who want to become a machine operator in bleaching, dyeing, and washing

To succeed as a machine operator in bleaching, dyeing, and washing, it is beneficial to have a genuine interest in technology and processes, along with a careful and responsible attitude towards work. Being attentive and stress-resistant helps to quickly identify and handle potential problems in production. Good teamwork skills facilitate collaboration with other departments and during process coordination, while a structured work approach helps follow safety and quality standards. Flexibility and willingness to further educate oneself are advantages in a field where technology evolves rapidly. Finally, the ability to work independently and take initiative—especially in troubleshooting or adjusting machines—is crucial. A combination of technical interest, precision, and a sense of responsibility creates the best conditions for thriving and developing within the profession.

Key facts about machine operator in bleaching, dyeing, and washing

• Education level: High school education, often with an industry or technical focus
• Work environment: Industrial setting with protective equipment requirements
• Work type: Shift work is common
• Demand: Approximately 1,437 job openings in the field
• Gender differences: No significant salary differences between women and men

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years in the profession, there are opportunities to advance to supervisory roles, such as process leader or team manager within production. Some choose to specialize in quality control, maintenance, or further education towards technician or engineering roles. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that there is currently insufficient data for an exact future prediction, but the broad occupational group suggests good employment prospects—there are about 1,437 job openings in the area. Demand is influenced by economic conditions and technological development, and those staying updated with new methods and machinery have better chances to develop their careers.

Common questions about machine operator in bleaching, dyeing, and washing

• What does a machine operator in bleaching, dyeing, and washing earn?
  - The average salary is 27 800 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, sector, and region.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Women and men earn approximately the same in this profession; women have slightly higher average salaries.
• What education is required to work as a machine operator in bleaching, dyeing, and washing?
  - High school education with a focus on industry or technology is recommended, often supplemented with internal training.
• What does the work environment look like?
  - The work takes place in an industrial environment with requirements for protective equipment and often shift work.
• What career opportunities are there?
  - Opportunities for advancement to supervisory roles, quality control, or further training as a technician.
• What are the future prospects?
  - There are approximately 1,437 job openings in the field, but no specific forecast for this profession.
• What is the highest and lowest salary in the profession?
  - The highest salary is 30,000 SEK (female, public sector), and the lowest is 23,400 SEK (male, government sector).