Machine repairers, industrial machines and mechanical equipment

What does a machine repairer within industrial machinery and mechanical equipment do? – Tasks and work environment

A machine repairer within industrial machinery and mechanical equipment is responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing machines and technical equipment in industrial environments. The tasks involve quickly identifying and fixing faults on, for example, production lines, pumps, motors, and other mechanical equipment to ensure reliable and efficient production. The work often includes performing both preventive and emergency maintenance, replacing worn parts, and sometimes making adjustments or upgrades to machine systems. The work environment can vary from clean workshops to noisy factories and production facilities, where safety is always a top priority and work during non-standard hours may occur during major downtime.

Salary development over time

The salary for machine repairers within industrial machinery and mechanical equipment has shown positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,500 SEK per month, increasing to 37 900 SEK in 2023 and further to 39 400 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to an increase of about 8% during the period, which is slightly above the general salary increase for technical professions in Sweden. The strong demand for qualified repairers, combined with technological development and increased requirements for advanced troubleshooting, has likely contributed to this salary improvement. At the same time, the supply of trained workforce remains relatively stable, which suggests that salary growth is expected to continue following economic trends and industry needs.

Machine repairer within industrial machinery – comprehensive salary overview

• Average salary: 39 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,600 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 41,000 SEK/month (male, private employee, post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage (average): 237 SEK/hour
• Gender difference: Women earn 98% of what men do (men: 39 500 SEK, women: 38 500 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data is lacking at a detailed level, but variations may occur depending on industry and location.

Education and qualifications

To work as a machine repairer within industrial machinery and mechanical equipment, a high school education in industrial technology or similar technical programs is usually required. Many employers also prefer candidates who have completed post-secondary courses or training in mechanics, automation, or electrical engineering. Practical experience and vocational certificates are often highly meritorious and can sometimes weigh more than formal education, especially in combination with relevant internships.

• High school education: Industrial technology program (3 years)
• Post-secondary courses: Mechanics, automation, electrical engineering (1-2 years)
• Certifications: Vocational certificates, industry-specific qualifications
• Internship: Workplace-based learning or trainee programs
• Prerequisites: Technical interest and problem-solving skills

Common benefits and compensations

In the role of a machine repairer within the industry, benefits such as collectively agreed occupational pension, overtime compensation, and wellness allowances are often offered. Other common compensations include extra pay for shift and on-call work, work clothes, and sometimes training opportunities and bonus programs linked to productivity or safety work.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a machine repairer within industrial machinery and mechanical equipment is generally balanced, according to the Swedish Public Employment Service. The demand for qualified repairers is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, despite increased automation and technological development. Challenges in the profession often involve staying updated on new technologies, working under time pressure, and sometimes handling heavy lifts or working in uncomfortable environments. The ability to troubleshoot quickly and work systematically is crucial, especially when downtime can be costly for industry.

Tips for those who want to become a machine repairer within industrial machinery

To succeed as a machine repairer within industrial machinery and mechanical equipment, it is good to combine technical interest with a desire to constantly learn new skills. Strong problem-solving skills are essential for quickly identifying and fixing faults in complex systems, while accuracy and safety awareness help avoid mistakes and accidents. Being able to work both independently and in teams facilitates collaboration with operators and technicians, and flexibility is important since workdays are often unpredictable. Finally, communication skills are a strength, especially when reporting faults and suggesting improvements to management or colleagues.

Key facts about machine repairers within industrial machinery

• Education level: High school diploma (industrial technology), often supplemented with post-secondary courses
• Work environment: Industrial facilities, workshops, and production lines
• Work form: Full-time, shifts, and sometimes on-call work
• Demand: Moderate, 481 available jobs nationwide (May 2024)
• Special skills: Troubleshooting, mechanics, automation, and safety procedures

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a machine repairer within industrial machinery and mechanical equipment can move on to more specialized roles, such as maintenance technician, supervisor, or technical specialist in automation. Some choose to broaden their skills toward electrical and control systems or work in training new technicians. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, the future outlook is stable, with medium opportunities for employment and a recruitment situation characterized by balance. Demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with some influence from technological development and automation, making new skills highly valued.

Frequently asked questions about machine repairers within industrial machinery

• What does a machine repairer within industrial machinery earn?
  - The average salary is 39 400 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 237 SEK.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn 98% of what men do (men: 39 500 SEK, women: 38 500 SEK).
• What education is required?
  - High school education in industrial technology is most common, often supplemented with courses in mechanics or automation.
• What are the future prospects?
  - Demand is moderate and stable, with 481 available jobs nationwide according to the latest data.
• What is the highest and lowest salary within the profession?
  - The highest salary is 41,000 SEK, the lowest is 25,600 SEK.
• What work environments are common?
  - Industrial environments, workshops, and sometimes production lines where safety is prioritized.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Problem-solving skills, accuracy, flexibility, and good communication are important qualities.