Machine operator, plastics industry

What does a machine operator in the plastics industry do? – Tasks and work environment

A machine operator in the plastics industry works with monitoring and controlling machines that produce plastic products for various applications. Tasks often include loading raw materials into machines, starting and stopping production, monitoring the process, and inspecting the quality of finished products. It also involves performing basic maintenance, replacing consumables, and adjusting settings to optimize production flow. The work environment is typically industrial, involving factories with noise, heat, and sometimes shift work. Safety procedures and accuracy are central parts of daily work.

Salary development over time

The salary for machine operators in the plastics industry has shown a steady upward trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,900 SEK per month, increasing to 32 000 in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 33 200, which is approximately a 7.5% increase over three years. This salary growth reflects continued demand for skilled operators, but also that the job market is influenced by factors such as technological development and automation. The salary increase has been slightly higher than inflation, indicating that employers value experience and technical understanding as machinery becomes more advanced. Regional and employer differences exist, with private employers and those with longer education tending to offer higher wages.

Machine Operator, plastics industry salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 33 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,500 SEK/month (female, regional sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Highest salary: 35,700 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education 3 years or more)
• Hourly wage: 200 SEK/hour (based on 166 working hours/month)
• Gender differences: Men 33 900 SEK/month, women 31 800 SEK/month – women earn 94% of what men do
• Regional differences: Salary variations occur depending on employer and region

Education and qualifications

To work as a machine operator in the plastics industry, a high school education in industrial, production, or technical fields is usually required. Many employers also offer internal training and opportunities for further education in machine handling and quality assurance. Practical experience and technical interest are important qualities for success, and some employers may require certificates or specific courses depending on the complexity of the machinery.

• High school education: Industrial technology program, 3 years
• Certifications: Machinery safety training and forklift licenses can be advantageous
• Internships: Workplace-based learning (APL) during education is common
• Additional courses: Process and automation training
• Prerequisites: Technical interest and good physical health

Common benefits and compensations

Machine operators in the plastics industry are often offered benefits such as shift and overtime pay, wellness allowances, work clothing, and access to occupational health services. Some workplaces also provide bonuses for meeting production targets and subsidized lunches or transportation.

Competition and challenges

The profession as a machine operator in the plastics industry is characterized by a paradoxical labor market where many leave the profession while employers report difficulties in finding qualified personnel. Nationwide, there are currently many job opportunities, but demand is expected to decrease over the next five years due to technological development and increased automation. This requires continuous skills development and adaptation to new working methods. Competition for the most attractive positions may therefore increase as more roles become automated and tasks change.

Tips for those who want to become a machine operator in the plastics industry

To succeed as a machine operator in the plastics industry, it is good to be precise and have a genuine technical interest, as the work requires accuracy when handling advanced machinery. The ability to work independently and take responsibility for the entire production chain is an important trait valued by employers. Flexibility helps you quickly adapt to changing tasks and new technical solutions. Good teamwork skills are valuable since the work often takes place in teams with other operators and technicians. Finally, initiative and a willingness to learn new things are crucial to keep up with the industry’s rapid technological development and to progress into more advanced roles over time.

Key facts about Machine Operator, plastics industry

• Education level: High school (industrial technology program), supplemented with internal training
• Work environment: Industrial setting with shift work and high safety requirements
• Demand: Large opportunities for employment, but declining in the future
• Special skills: Machine handling, quality assurance, technical problem solving
• Typical employment: Full-time, often shift-based

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a machine operator in the plastics industry, there are opportunities to advance to more specialized roles, such as production technician, supervisor, or quality manager. Some also choose to further their education in automation or production technology to move towards engineering roles. The Employment Service’s forecasts show that while there are currently many job opportunities, demand for machine operators in the plastics industry is expected to decrease over the next five years. This development is driven mainly by increased automation and technological progress, meaning those interested in the profession should be prepared to continuously update their skills and adapt to new working methods. Despite this, the number of available jobs remains large, with 1437 advertised positions nationwide.

Frequently asked questions about Machine Operator, plastics industry

• What does a machine operator in the plastics industry earn?
  - The average salary is 33 200 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, education, and gender.
• What education is required to become a machine operator in the plastics industry?
  - Most commonly, a high school education in industrial technology, supplemented with internal training and internships.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 94% of what men do in the profession.
• What are the future prospects for machine operators in the plastics industry?
  - Job opportunities are large today, but demand is expected to decrease over the next five years due to automation.
• What occupational health and safety factors are important to know?
  - Work often takes place in an industrial environment with noise and shift work, requiring safety and precision.
• Are there opportunities for further education and career development?
  - Yes, many choose to further their education in automation, production technology, or leadership to advance in their careers.
• How many job openings are there in the profession?
  - Currently, there are 1437 available jobs nationwide in the profession.