Material manager, storage

What does a Material Manager in storage do? – Tasks and work environment

A Material Manager in storage is responsible for coordinating, controlling, and ensuring material flow within warehouse and storage operations. Tasks include receiving, registering, and dispatching goods, as well as inventory management and stock monitoring. The role requires precision, structured work methods, and good ability to handle both manual and digital logistics systems. The work environment is often physically active and may involve solo work or collaboration with others in logistics, purchasing, and production. In larger organizations, administrative tasks such as ordering, documentation, and quality assurance of material handling are also common.

Salary development over time

The salary for Material Managers in storage has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,000 SEK per month, followed by 32 100 SEK in 2023, and reached 33 400 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 7.7 % during the period, with a particularly noticeable rise in the last year. Factors driving salary growth include increased digitization of warehouse operations, higher demands for logistics skills, and general pressure on the labor market within warehousing and distribution. Despite this development, salary increases have been somewhat lower than in some other logistics professions, which can be explained by the relatively low educational requirements for the role and the still high supply of labor in this sector.

Material Manager, storage salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,900 SEK/month (male, government sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 35,500 SEK/month (female, private employee, post-secondary education of at least 3 years)
• Hourly wage: 201 SEK
• Women: 32 700 SEK/month (97 % of men's salary)
• Men: 33 600 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data varies, but higher salaries are generally found in metropolitan regions.

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a Material Manager in storage often involves vocational training in logistics, warehousing, or transportation, but practical experience is highly valued. Formal requirements are rarely strictly necessary, but a high school education in a relevant field, along with forklift certification and good computer skills, are clear advantages. Employers often value flexibility, precision, and the ability to work independently in a changing environment.

• High school education: Focus on logistics, transportation, or trade (3 years)
• Forklift certification: Often a requirement for employment
• Experience in warehouse work: Meritorious and sometimes decisive
• Computer skills: Basic IT and system familiarity needed
• Certification courses: Possible within logistics and work environment

Common benefits and compensations

Material Managers in storage are often offered benefits such as wellness contributions, overtime pay for work outside regular hours, and opportunities for professional development through internal or external courses. Occupational pension and insurance are usually included, especially in larger companies and the public sector. Some employers also offer subsidized lunch or employee discounts on company products.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for Material Managers in storage is characterized by an oversupply of labor, with limited opportunities for employment according to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast. Over the next five years, demand within the profession is expected to remain unchanged, meaning competition for available positions may be tough. Challenges in the role include the requirement for efficient warehouse flow, handling digital systems, and the ability to adapt quickly to changes in demand or delivery issues. Despite reporting 412 job openings within the profession, high demands for flexibility and accuracy are necessary to stand out in recruitment processes.

Tips for those who want to become a Material Manager in storage

To succeed as a Material Manager in storage, it is beneficial to combine structure and accuracy with a solution-oriented attitude. Showing initiative and being flexible in work methods makes it easier to handle unexpected situations in material flow. Communication skills are central, as the role often involves contact with multiple departments and external suppliers. A strong sense of order and responsibility helps keep stock levels accurate and avoid errors in deliveries. Continuously updating knowledge in digital warehouse management and work environment is an advantage in a competitive job market. Furthermore, the ability to work independently while contributing to good teamwork is valued. Engagement and interest in logistics and efficiency can be crucial for long-term career development in the profession.

Key facts about Material Manager, storage

• Average salary: 33 400 SEK/month
• Education level: High school education (3 years), often with a focus on logistics
• Work environment: Physically active, often in warehouse and storage environments
• Demand: Limited opportunities, high competition for positions
• Job openings: 412 advertised within the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a Material Manager in storage, career paths can lead to roles such as warehouse manager, supervisor, or specialized logistics services. Skills in digital warehouse management and project leadership also open doors to administrative positions or quality assurance within larger companies. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, demand for warehouse and terminal personnel is expected to remain unchanged over five years, while competition for available jobs is expected to persist. To increase chances of advancement, further education in logistics, leadership, or IT systems can be crucial. Related professions include warehouse planners, logistics coordinators, and purchasing assistants.

Frequently asked questions about Material Manager, storage

• What does a Material Manager, storage earn?
  - The average salary is 33 400 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What education is required to become a Material Manager in storage?
  - High school education with a focus on logistics or transportation is most common, supplemented with forklift certification and computer skills.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salary levels are generally higher in metropolitan areas and in the private sector.
• What is the job market like for Material Managers in storage?
  - The job market is competitive with limited opportunities and a surplus of labor.
• What personal qualities are important in this profession?
  - Attention to detail, flexibility, and good communication skills are especially valuable.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Benefits such as wellness contributions, overtime pay, occupational pension, and professional development are common.
• How can one develop within the profession?
  - Through further education and experience, you can advance to roles such as warehouse manager or logistics coordinator.