Machine operator, yarn preparation

What does a machine operator in yarn preparation do? – Tasks and work environment

A machine operator in yarn preparation monitors, controls, and adjusts machines that prepare yarn for further production in the textile industry. Tasks include feeding raw materials, checking machine functions, troubleshooting minor technical issues, and ensuring the quality of the finished yarn meets set standards. The environment is often industrial, with noise levels and work tasks that require both precision and physical endurance. The job may involve shift work and requires good teamwork skills, as production often occurs in teams.

Salary development over time

The salary for machine operators in yarn preparation has been steadily increasing in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 27,700 SEK, rising to 29 600 SEK in 2023 and reaching 30 400 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 9.8% over three years. The increase reflects both the general wage development in the industry and the ongoing demand for technically skilled operators in the textile sector. Despite being a less visible profession, increased automation and the need for quality control have contributed to a slight strengthening of salary levels. However, differences between genders and regions remain, affecting individual salary growth.

Machine operator, yarn preparation salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 30 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 29,400 SEK/month (female, privately employed officer, high school education 3 years)
• Highest salary: 32,200 SEK/month (male, regional sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage: 183 SEK
• Women: 29 700 SEK/month (95% of men's salary)
• Men: 31 200 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Vary depending on employer and sector; highest salaries are found within the regional sector.

Education and qualifications

To work as a machine operator in yarn preparation, a high school education with a focus on industry, technology, or textiles is generally required. Practical experience is highly valued, and many employers offer induction or internal training. Technical interest, accuracy, and the ability to work systematically are important personal qualities for success in the profession.

• Formal education: High school, technical or industrial program (3 years)
• Internship: Common and often a requirement for employment
• Internal training: Often provided by the employer upon hiring
• Prerequisites: Technical interest and some machine experience are advantageous
• Additional courses: May be offered, especially within machine safety and quality

Common benefits and compensations

Machine operators in yarn preparation are often offered benefits such as overtime pay for shift work, wellness contributions, and sometimes additional vacation days. Other common compensations include collective pension schemes, work clothing, and subsidized meals. Some employers also provide educational support and opportunities for skill development within the company.

Challenges and competition

The profession as a machine operator in yarn preparation is characterized by a relatively small job market, where competition mainly involves experience and technical competence. Ongoing automation poses a challenge, requiring continuous skills development and adaptability. The work environment can be demanding, with monotonous tasks and shift work, requiring endurance and attention to detail. Gender salary gaps are still noticeable, and there is a need for increased gender equality within the profession. Limited data makes it difficult to predict future recruitment needs precisely, but demand for technically interested personnel remains, especially where production is specialized.

Tips for aspiring machine operators in yarn preparation

To succeed as a machine operator in yarn preparation, it is good to combine accuracy with a willingness to learn new technology. Technical interest facilitates understanding of machine functions and increases the ability to quickly solve problems. Stress tolerance is an important trait, especially during shift work or when production is high. Flexibility helps teamwork and makes it easier to handle changes in tasks. Finally, a sense of responsibility is crucial, as the work environment requires following safety routines and constantly monitoring the quality of the finished yarn.

Key facts about machine operators in yarn preparation

• Education level: High school, technical or industrial
• Work environment: Industrial environment with shift work
• Typical employment: Full-time, sometimes shift work
• Demand: 1,437 job openings within the profession
• Gender distribution: Women earn 95% of men's salary

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a machine operator in yarn preparation, further development can lead to roles such as team leader, production planner, or technician in production and maintenance. There are also opportunities to specialize in quality control or process optimization, especially for those who pursue further education in production technology. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, no specific assessment is made for this profession due to limited data, but the number of job openings indicates that the job market remains active. Automation and technological development mean that demand for competent and adaptable machine operators persists, particularly in companies investing in modern production technology.

Frequently asked questions about machine operators in yarn preparation

• What does a machine operator in yarn preparation earn?
  - The average salary is 30 400 SEK per month. Men earn an average of 31 200 SEK and women 29 700 SEK.
• What education is required to become a machine operator in yarn preparation?
  - High school education with a focus on industry or technology is recommended, sometimes supplemented with internal training.
• Is shift work common in this profession?
  - Yes, shift work is common in yarn preparation and can involve inconvenient working hours.
• What are the future prospects?
  - Forecasts are unavailable due to limited data, but there were 1,437 job openings in the profession at the latest measurement.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for machine operators in yarn preparation?
  - The highest salary is 32,200 SEK (male, regional sector, high school education up to 2 years) and the lowest is 29,400 SEK (female, privately employed officer, high school education 3 years).
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, the highest salaries are found within the regional sector, with variations depending on employer and region.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Accuracy, technical interest, stress tolerance, and a sense of responsibility are especially important in this profession.