Material processor

What does a Materialberedare do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Materialberedare works with planning, coordinating, and ensuring material flows within manufacturing and production processes. Tasks often include analyzing needs, ordering and following up on material deliveries, and ensuring that the right components are available at the right time in production. Continuous contact with suppliers, transporters, and internal departments is common, as well as working with digital systems for inventory management and production planning. The work environment for a Materialberedare is generally office-based but may also include visits to production facilities and warehouses to follow up on material flows and identify areas for improvement.

Salary development over time

Materialberedare have seen steady salary increases over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 42,200 SEK per month, which increased to 43 700 SEK in 2023 and further to 45 600 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to an approximate salary increase of 8% over the period. The positive trend is driven by increased demand for logistical skills and technical understanding within manufacturing, as well as a growing need for efficient material handling in line with digitalization and automation. Salary development can also be linked to increasing educational requirements and specialization among professionals in the field.

Materialberedare salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 45 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,900 SEK/month (female, private sector, high school education 3 years)
• Highest salary: 52,700 SEK/month (male, public sector, research education)
• Hourly wage (average): 274 SEK
• Men's average salary: 46 500 SEK/month
• Women's average salary: 43 100 SEK/month
• Women earn: 93% of men's salary

Education and Qualifications

To work as a Materialberedare, a technical education at high school or higher education level is usually required, often with specialization in logistics, production, or industrial economics. Practical experience in material handling, inventory management, or production is often advantageous, and employers often seek knowledge of business systems and digital tools. Additional courses and certifications in logistics or production technology can enhance employment opportunities.

• High school education: 3 years, preferably technical program or industrial technical specialization
• Post-secondary education: Bachelor's engineer or YH (Higher Vocational Education) in logistics/production (2–3 years)
• Certifications: Courses in inventory management, Lean production, or logistics
• Internship: Workplace-based internships or trainee programs are common
• Pre-requisites: Good knowledge of Excel and business systems recommended

Common Benefits and Compensation

Materialberedare are often offered collective agreement-based occupational pensions, wellness allowances, and flexible working hours. Other common benefits include subsidized lunches, employee discounts, and skill development through internal or external training. In some cases, bonus programs and extra vacation days may also be available depending on the employer and sector.

Competition and Challenges

Competition for positions as a Materialberedare can vary depending on region and industry. In larger industrial cities and expanding regions, demand for skills in material planning and logistics is often high. Challenges in the profession include quickly adapting to changing production plans, handling delivery issues, and ensuring that material flows are not interrupted. Digitalization and automation increase demands for technical understanding and flexibility, while employers also value problem-solving skills and effective communication. For those wishing to develop further in the profession, continuous updating of knowledge in logistics and production technology is important.

Tips for aspiring Materialberedare

To succeed as a Materialberedare, it is good to be meticulous and have analytical skills to handle complex material flows and planning. Developing strong communication skills is crucial, as the work often requires collaboration across departments and with external partners. Being stress-resistant and flexible is also an advantage, as unexpected situations and rapid changes are common. Actively seeking internships or trainee programs provides practical experience and increases chances of employment. Learning business systems and digital tools independently can be a competitive advantage. Additionally, demonstrating initiative and an interest in continuous improvement is valued by employers, as engagement and willingness to develop are important.

Key facts about Materialberedare

• Education level: High school or post-secondary technical education
• Work environment: Office-based with visits to warehouses and production sites
• Demand: 564 job openings in the profession right now
• Typical work form: Full-time, daytime
• Special skills: Inventory management, logistics, business systems

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience as a Materialberedare, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as logistics manager, production planner, or purchasing manager. Specialization in digital tools or process development can also lead to consultancy or project management roles. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicate continued stable demand for skills in the field, especially as industry digitalizes and material handling becomes increasingly complex. The profession is broad, offering opportunities in both private and public sectors, providing flexibility and variation for those who want to develop further.

Frequently asked questions about Materialberedare

• What does a Materialberedare earn?
  - A Materialberedare has an average salary of 45 600 SEK per month, but the salary varies depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What are the gender differences in Materialberedare salaries?
  - Men earn an average of 46 500 SEK, while women earn 43 100 SEK per month, which means women earn approximately 93% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a Materialberedare?
  - Usually, a high school or post-secondary education in engineering, production, or logistics is required, often supplemented with practical training.
• What is the job market like for Materialberedare?
  - Demand is stable with 564 job openings in the profession, especially in larger industrial regions.
• Are there regional salary differences for Materialberedare?
  - Salary levels can vary depending on region and sector, with metropolitan areas and the public sector often offering higher salaries.
• What are the most important personal qualities for a Materialberedare?
  - Accuracy, stress tolerance, analytical ability, and good communication skills are especially important in the profession.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a Materialberedare?
  - The highest salary is 52,700 SEK (male, public sector, research education), and the lowest is 38,900 SEK (female, private sector, high school education).