Machine setter

What does a Machine Setter do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Machine Setter is responsible for installing, adjusting, and setting up machines within manufacturing and process industries. The role involves preparing machines for production, performing test runs, and ensuring equipment operates according to technical specifications and quality requirements. It often includes troubleshooting, fixing minor operational issues, and collaborating with technicians or operators to optimize production flow. The work environment is characterized by industrial settings with noise, heavy lifting, and working near automated processes, demanding precision, safety awareness, and technical understanding.

Salary Development Over Time

The salary for a Machine Setter has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,500 SEK per month, increasing to 37 900 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary continued upward to 39 400 SEK per month, representing approximately an 8% increase over three years. This positive trend can be partly explained by increased demand for skilled technical competence in the industry and general wage growth within technical and maintenance roles. Technological innovations and higher demands for machine knowledge have also contributed to increasing the value of the role. Meanwhile, wage development has remained relatively consistent compared to other industry-related professions.

Machine Setter Salary – Complete 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 sector, postgraduate education)
• Hourly wage: 237 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 98% of men's salaries (men 39 500 SEK, women 38 500 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on region and labor market needs

Education and Qualifications

To work as a Machine Setter, a technical high school education in industry, automation, or mechanics is usually required. Many employers also value additional courses in mechanical engineering or experience in industrial maintenance. Practical experience in production environments is highly valuable and often a requirement for employment. Certifications in safety, electrical, or mechanical engineering can be advantageous for those seeking to enhance their skills.

• High school education: Industrial technology program (3 years)
• Post-secondary courses: Mechanical engineering, automation, or maintenance
• Certifications: e.g., crane, forklift, hot work
• Internship/Trainee: Often a requirement for employment
• Prerequisites: Good technical understanding and problem-solving skills

Common Benefits and Compensation

In addition to base salary, benefits such as overtime pay, wellness allowance, work clothing, and sometimes bonuses tied to production are often offered. Other common compensations include pension contributions and opportunities for further training and skills development. In some cases, bonuses linked to production targets or company results are also provided.

Competition and Challenges

The job market for Machine Setters is characterized by moderate competition and a balance between supply and demand for labor. According to the Employment Service's forecasts, demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, partly due to ongoing technological development and automation in industry. Challenges in the profession may include quickly adapting to new machine technology, working under pressure during production stops, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Those lacking practical experience may initially find it difficult to establish themselves, but the right skills and willingness to learn are strong competitive advantages.

Tips for Aspiring Machine Setters

To succeed as a Machine Setter, it’s beneficial to have a genuine interest in technology and be solution-oriented, as tasks often require quick decisions when machines need adjustments or troubleshooting. Precision is crucial, especially during installation and testing, where small errors can have significant consequences. Flexibility and the ability to work independently are essential, as tasks may vary depending on production needs and shift schedules. Collaborating with other technicians and operators facilitates complex setups and learning from colleagues. Staying updated on new technology and taking initiative for further training or certifications are also advantageous. Good communication skills ease handovers between shifts and reporting deviations. Lastly, always prioritize safety and follow workplace safety procedures.

Key Facts about Machine Setters

• Education level: High school education in industry/mechanical engineering is most common
• Work environment: Industrial environment, often shift work
• Demand: 481 job openings within the profession (May 2024)
• Gender distribution: Predominantly men, but the share of women is increasing
• Future outlook: Moderate opportunities, balanced labor market

Career Paths and Future Prospects

After three to five years in the profession, there are good opportunities to advance to more qualified technician roles, such as maintenance technician or production technician. Some choose to specialize in automation, robotics, or quality assurance. Experienced Machine Setters often move into supervisory positions or become internal trainers for new employees. According to the Employment Service's forecast, the labor market is expected to remain stable with moderate employment opportunities and a balanced recruitment situation in the coming years. However, demand for Machine Setters will be influenced by technological development and the degree of automation in industry, which may change skill requirements over time.

Frequently Asked Questions about Machine Setters

• What is the average salary for a Machine Setter?
  - The average salary is 39 400 SEK per month.
• What are the gender differences in salaries?
  - Women earn 38 500 SEK and men 39 500 SEK, which means women earn 98% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a Machine Setter?
  - High school education in industry, technology, or automation is most common, often supplemented with practical experience and certifications.
• What are the future prospects for Machine Setters?
  - The outlook is stable with moderate opportunities and a balanced labor market according to the Employment Service.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries?
  - Highest salary is 41,000 SEK (male, private sector) and lowest is 25,600 SEK (female, municipal sector).
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries can vary depending on region and labor market needs.
• What benefits are common?
  - Common benefits include overtime pay, wellness allowance, work clothing, and sometimes bonuses linked to production.