Machine operator, textile industry, bleaching, dyeing, washing

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

A machine operator in the textile industry focusing on bleaching, dyeing, and washing is responsible for monitoring and controlling machines that treat textiles. Tasks include preparing machines, dosing chemicals, monitoring process parameters, and performing quality checks on the material during and after treatment. The work is often carried out in production facilities where humidity, heat, and chemical odors may be present, requiring strict safety procedures and protective equipment. Collaboration with other operators and technicians is common to ensure a steady production flow and high-quality finished products.

Wage development over time

Over the past three years, wages for machine operators in the textile industry's bleaching, dyeing, and washing have shown a steady but moderate increase. In 2022, the average salary was 26,600 SEK, while in 2023 it was 26 500 SEK, representing a slight decrease. However, in 2024, the average salary increased to 27 800 SEK, which is about a 4.9% rise compared to the previous year. This positive trend can partly be explained by increased demand for skilled operators in Swedish industry and overall wage adjustments in the labor market. Meanwhile, gender pay gaps have nearly disappeared, which is uncommon in many industrial sectors.

Complete overview of salary for machine operators in the textile industry, bleaching, dyeing, and washing

• 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: 167 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women 27 900 SEK, men 27 700 SEK – practically equal
• Regional differences: Data on regional salary differences is unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a machine operator in the textile industry's bleaching, dyeing, and washing, a high school education in industry, technology, or textiles is typically required. The education is often supplemented with internal training or short courses directly at the workplace. Practical experience and understanding of process industrial environments are highly valuable, as well as the ability to work systematically and follow safety procedures.

• High school education: Industry program or textile and design program, 3 years
• Internal training: Usually mandatory upon employment
• Internship: Meritorious and sometimes required for employment
• Certifications: Occupational safety and chemical handling may be required
• Prerequisites: Basic mathematics and technology

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for machine operators in the textile industry include access to workwear, wellness contributions, and opportunities for skills development through internal training. Several employers also offer shift or overtime pay for working inconvenient hours, as well as occupational pensions and insurance as part of employment conditions.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a machine operator in the textile industry's bleaching, dyeing, and washing is generally moderate but can vary depending on region and economic conditions. The industry is affected by technological changes that require continuous further training and adaptability. The work environment can sometimes be demanding, with exposure to chemicals and noise, making safety and precision critical. An additional challenge is keeping up with new environmental standards and sustainability initiatives, which are becoming increasingly important in Swedish textile manufacturing.

Tips for those aspiring to become a machine operator in the textile industry, bleaching, dyeing, and washing

To succeed as a machine operator in the textile industry's bleaching, dyeing, and washing, it is beneficial to have analytical skills and be meticulous, especially when handling machines and chemicals. An interest in technology facilitates learning new machines or processes, and a flexible attitude is valuable when production plans change rapidly. Good teamwork skills are necessary since the work is often performed in teams, and a sense of responsibility is important to maintain safety. Demonstrating engagement for quality is also appreciated, as small mistakes can affect the entire production. Finally, initiative and a willingness to further educate oneself are valued, as technology in the textile industry is constantly evolving.

Key facts about Machine Operator, textile industry, bleaching, dyeing, and washing

• Education level: High school education in industry or textiles
• Work environment: Production, often shift work and chemical handling
• Typical employment: Full-time, permanent position
• Demand: 1,437 available jobs in the profession
• Gender distribution: Nearly equal salaries between women and men

Career paths and future prospects

After several years in the role as a machine operator in the textile industry, opportunities exist to advance to senior operator, shift supervisor, or technical specialist within production. Some choose to pursue further education in process or production technology and can take roles such as production planner or supervisor. According to the Employment Service, no specific forecast is made for this profession due to limited data, but the broad category has a large number of available jobs, indicating continued demand. Skills in automation and environmental technology are increasingly attractive and can enhance career prospects.

Common questions about Machine Operator, textile industry, bleaching, dyeing, and washing

• What is the salary of a Machine Operator, textile industry, bleaching, dyeing, and washing?
  - The average salary is 27 800 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 167 SEK.
• Are there differences in salary between men and women?
  - No, women earn an average of 27 900 SEK and men 27 700 SEK, which is practically equal.
• What education is required to become a machine operator in the textile industry?
  - High school education in industry or textiles is most common, often with internal training.
• What is the work environment like for machine operators in bleaching, dyeing, and washing?
  - The work occurs in production environments with machines, chemicals, and sometimes shift work.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries in the profession?
  - The highest salary is 30,000 SEK and the lowest is 23,400 SEK per month, depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What are the job prospects for the profession?
  - Currently, there are 1,437 available jobs, but no specific forecast according to the Employment Service.
• What benefits are common for machine operators in the textile industry?
  - Workwear, wellness contributions, shift and overtime pay, and occupational pensions are common benefits.