What does a Materialarbetare do? – Tasks and work environment
Materialarbetare play a central role in warehousing and terminal operations. Tasks include receiving, sorting, packing, and distributing goods. Handling loading and unloading of cargo, inventory management, and stock keeping are also common. The work environment involves physical activity, working in warehouse facilities or terminals, and may include both day and evening shifts. Safety routines are important, as is the ability to work independently and in teams.
Salary development over time
The salary for Materialarbetare has shown steady and positive growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,000 SEK per month, increasing to 32 100 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary continued upward to 33 400 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 7.7 % over three years. This growth reflects both general wage increases within warehousing and logistics, and a somewhat increased demand for experienced Materialarbetare. Despite this positive trend, an oversupply of workers has been reported, which may temper future wage increases.
Materialarbetare salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 33 400 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 25,900 SEK/month
- Highest salary: 35,500 SEK/month
- Average hourly wage: 201 SEK
- Men's average salary: 33 600 SEK
- Women's average salary: 32 700 SEK
- Women's salary as a percentage of men's: 97%
- Regional differences: Salary levels may vary slightly depending on region and labor market conditions.
Education and qualifications
Pathways to becoming a Materialarbetare are often straightforward, with basic high school education being the most common requirement. Some employers may also value internal training, certifications, or experience in warehousing. Practical experience is highly regarded, and there are opportunities for further education in logistics and warehouse management for those seeking career development.
- High school education: Focus on warehousing, logistics, or transportation (3 years)
- Internal training: Introduction programs and safety courses are often offered at the workplace
- Forklift certification: Common requirement for many employers
- Internship/training: Experience from internships or summer jobs can be valuable
- Prerequisites: Good physical condition and teamwork skills
Many Materialarbetare quickly take on responsibilities for logistics flows or quality control. Those who show initiative and meticulousness can develop into supervisory roles or specialized tasks within warehousing and logistics.
Common benefits and compensations
Materialarbetare are often offered benefits such as overtime pay for evening and weekend work, wellness allowances, and employee discounts. Access to work clothing and protective equipment is standard, and some employers offer bonuses for good performance or during peak seasons. Opportunities for skills development and further training are available, especially in larger companies.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as Materialarbetare is currently high, due to a nationwide oversupply of labor in warehousing and terminal work. This means more applicants than available jobs, and employers may set higher requirements for experience and education. Demands for flexibility and physical endurance are significant, especially during busy periods. Digitalization and automation are also impacting the profession, requiring Materialarbetare to develop new skills to meet changing tasks. Despite these challenges, there are opportunities for dedicated individuals willing to learn new skills.
Tips for those aspiring to become Materialarbetare
To succeed as a Materialarbetare, it’s good to have a strong work ethic and an interest in logistics. Precision and organizational skills facilitate goods handling and inventory management, while good physical condition is an advantage for heavy lifting and long shifts. Flexibility and the ability to work shifts increase chances of employment, especially in larger warehouses. Good teamwork and quick adaptation to new routines are appreciated by employers. Taking the initiative to learn new skills or pursue forklift training can open more doors. Communication and responsibility are valued, especially for those seeking advancement. Showing interest in work environment and safety is also important in this industry.
Key facts about Materialarbetare
- Education level: High school education with focus on warehousing/logistics
- Work environment: Warehouses, terminals, and logistics centers
- Work arrangement: Shift work is common
- Demand: Limited opportunities, oversupply of labor
- Skill requirements: Forklift license and good physical condition
Career paths and future outlook
After three to five years in the profession, a Materialarbetare can advance to roles such as supervisor, warehouse coordinator, or logistics specialist. Further education in logistics or transportation can open doors to more qualified positions, for example in warehouse planning or procurement. According to the Employment Service’s forecast, job opportunities for Materialarbetare are expected to be limited nationally, with an oversupply of labor. Over five years, demand is expected to remain unchanged, meaning competition for available positions will stay high. Nevertheless, there are continuously some vacancies – currently 412 within the profession – providing opportunities for those with the right skills and experience.
Frequently asked questions about Materialarbetare
- What is the average salary of a Materialarbetare?
- The average salary is 33 400 SEK per month.
- What is the hourly wage for Materialarbetare?
- The average hourly wage is 201 SEK.
- Are there differences between men's and women's wages?
- Yes, men earn on average 33 600 SEK and women 32 700 SEK, which means women earn 97 % of men's wages.
- What education is required to become a Materialarbetare?
- High school education in warehousing, logistics, or transportation is common, often supplemented with forklift certification.
- What are the future prospects for Materialarbetare?
- The prognosis indicates limited opportunities and an oversupply of labor according to the Employment Service.
- What is the highest and lowest salary for Materialarbetare?
- The highest salary is 35,500 SEK and the lowest is 25,900 SEK, depending on education and sector.
- How many job openings are there for Materialarbetare?
- Currently, there are 412 job openings within the warehousing and terminal staff profession.
