Machine operator, tea, coffee and cocoa preparation

What does a machine operator within tea, coffee, and cocoa preparation do? – Tasks and work environment

A machine operator within tea, coffee, and cocoa preparation is responsible for monitoring, controlling, and maintaining machines used in the production and processing of tea, coffee, and cocoa. Tasks include starting and stopping production lines, ensuring raw materials are fed correctly, adjusting machine settings, and checking product quality through sampling and visual inspection. The work is often carried out in production halls with high hygiene standards and varying noise levels. The machine operator collaborates closely with quality controllers and maintenance staff to quickly handle any operational disruptions and ensure efficient and safe production.

Wage development over time

The profession of machine operator within tea, coffee, and cocoa preparation has experienced steady wage growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,300 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased slightly to 31 900, representing an increase of about 5.3%. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 32 000, but only a minor increase of 0.3% compared to the previous year. The overall trend shows some salary growth, but the pace has slowed down. The relatively modest increase in the past year can be linked to the industry’s economic situation and continued high competition for jobs, while demand for qualified operators remains. Gender differences have persisted, with women earning approximately 95% of men's salaries in 2024.

Machine operator within tea, coffee, and cocoa preparation salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 32 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 29,700 SEK/month (woman, private sector, high school education 3 years)
• Highest salary: 34,700 SEK/month (man, regional sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage (average): 192 SEK/hour
• Women: 31 100 SEK/month (95% of men's salary)
• Men: 32 700 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Highest salary in regional sector, lowest in private service sector

Education and qualifications

To work as a machine operator within tea, coffee, and cocoa preparation, a high school education is generally required, often with a focus on food technology or process engineering. Practical experience from food production and machine handling is advantageous, and many employers also offer internal training or orientation. For some positions, specific certifications or courses in food hygiene and safety are required.

• High school education: Food technology or process engineering, 2–3 years
• Certificates/courses: Food hygiene, machine safety
• Practical experience: Experience from industrial production is highly meritorious
• Prerequisites: Good knowledge of Swedish and basic mathematics
• Employer-led introduction: Common upon employment

Common benefits and compensations

Machine operators within tea, coffee, and cocoa preparation often have access to benefits such as overtime pay for shift work, wellness allowances, work clothing, and sometimes subsidized meals. Occupational pension, annual health checks, and opportunities for further training or internal career paths are also common in larger companies.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a machine operator within tea, coffee, and cocoa preparation is generally moderate but can vary depending on region and economic conditions. A challenge is that the profession requires precision and the ability to quickly identify and fix technical faults, while the work environment can be noisy and repetitive. Shift work is common, which can impact both work and private life. Technological development and automation increase demands for digital skills and machine understanding. For those who are flexible and willing to further their education, there are good opportunities for continued employment and career development within the profession.

Tips for those who want to become a machine operator within tea, coffee, and cocoa preparation

To succeed as a machine operator within tea, coffee, and cocoa preparation, it is beneficial to have a technical interest and be precise in your work. Developing problem-solving skills makes it easier to handle machine stops and quality deviations, while endurance is important for shift work and monotonous tasks. Being communicative and cooperative facilitates teamwork and contributes to a safe work environment. Showing engagement for food safety and following routines is crucial for product quality. It is also advantageous to be proactive and take responsibility for your own development, for example by taking relevant courses. Finally, flexibility and willingness to learn new things are important traits as technology and production methods evolve.

Key facts about a machine operator within tea, coffee, and cocoa preparation

• Education level: High school education, preferably with a food focus
• Work environment: Production hall, shift work common
• Demand: 1,437 job openings in the profession (2024)
• Gender salary distribution: Women earn 95% of men's salaries
• Profession group: Other machine operators, food industry, etc.

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a machine operator within tea, coffee, and cocoa preparation, there are opportunities to advance to supervisor, process manager, or quality coordinator within the food industry. Some choose to further their education to become production technicians or specialize in automation and maintenance. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, demand remains stable, with 1,437 job openings in the past year. Digitalization and automation of production lines increase requirements for technical skills, which can create new career paths for those interested in further development within the industry.

Frequently asked questions about a machine operator within tea, coffee, and cocoa preparation

• What does a machine operator within tea, coffee, and cocoa preparation earn?
  - The average salary is 32 000 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• Are there wage differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn 95% of what men do in this profession.
• What education is required to become a machine operator within tea, coffee, and cocoa preparation?
  - A high school education in food technology or process engineering is recommended, along with practical experience.
• What is the work environment like?
  - Work takes place in production halls, often with shift work and high hygiene standards.
• What career opportunities are available?
  - Opportunities to advance to supervisor, process manager, or further education in technology.
• How many job openings are there in the profession?
  - There were 1437 job openings during the past year.
• What influences the most on salary?
  - Factors such as sector (private/regional), experience, education, and gender influence salary levels.