Material coordinator

What does a materials coordinator do? – tasks and work environment

A materials coordinator is responsible for coordinating and optimizing the flow of materials within warehouses, terminals, or production facilities. Tasks include receiving, inspecting, and registering goods, inventory management, order handling, and delivery planning. It is also often part of the role to ensure that the right materials are available at the right time and in the right quantity, working closely with purchasing, suppliers, and production. The work environment is typically dynamic, sometimes physically demanding, and characterized by a high pace, where flexibility and accuracy are crucial for an efficient material flow.

Salary development over time

The salary for a materials coordinator has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,000 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 32 100 SEK in 2023. The latest data from 2024 shows an average salary of 33 400 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 7.7% over the period. This positive salary trend can be linked to increased complexity in material handling and a growing need for logistics competence, although the salary increases are somewhat subdued compared to the average for the labor market. Despite steady demand for efficient material management, an oversupply of labor in warehousing and terminal sectors has affected salary development, which may explain the relatively modest percentage increase.

Materials coordinator salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,900 SEK/month (male, public sector, pre-secondary education <9 years)
• Highest salary: 35,500 SEK/month (female, private employee, post-secondary education ≥3 years)
• Hourly wage: 201 SEK/hour (average, hourly employee)
• Gender differences: Women earn 32 700 SEK/month, men 33 600 SEK/month (women 97% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data on regional variation is currently unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a materials coordinator, a high school diploma with a focus on logistics, transport, or industry is typically required, but increasingly post-secondary studies in logistics or supply chain are sought after. Practical experience from warehousing and administrative skills are important merits. Certifications such as forklift or vehicle licenses may be required depending on the workplace, and familiarity with modern IT systems facilitates the role.

• High school education: Focus on logistics, transport, or industry (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: YH training or university courses within logistics/supply chain (1–2 years)
• Certifications: Forklift license, ADR, or similar qualifications
• Experience: Experience from warehousing, production, or logistics environments is highly valued
• IT skills: Familiarity with business systems and warehouse management systems is an advantage

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for a materials coordinator include shift allowances, wellness contributions, occupational pension, and sometimes bonuses linked to production targets or efficiency. Many employers also offer work clothing, subsidized lunches, or employee discounts. In some cases, opportunities for skill development through internal or external training are available.

Competition and challenges

The job market for materials coordinators currently features an oversupply of applicants, making competition for available positions relatively high. According to the Employment Service's forecast, demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, meaning the number of job openings is not expected to increase significantly. Digitalization and automation demand higher technical understanding and flexibility. For those looking to establish themselves in the profession, continuous skills development, especially in IT and logistics systems, is important. Temporary peaks in demand may occur, for example, during seasonal changes or shifts in trade patterns.

Tips for aspiring materials coordinators

To succeed as a materials coordinator, it is beneficial to combine organizational skills with problem-solving ability. Being meticulous helps minimize errors in registration and inventory management, while resilience is crucial during high-pressure periods or unforeseen delivery issues. Social skills facilitate cooperation with colleagues and external suppliers, ensuring smooth communication and coordination. Gaining practical experience early, such as through summer jobs or internships, increases opportunities. Technical interest and adaptability to new business systems enhance career prospects. Demonstrating initiative, such as taking extra responsibility or suggesting improvements, is often appreciated by employers. Finally, maintaining a solutions-oriented mindset is vital, as unexpected challenges are a natural part of the work.

Key facts about materials coordinators

• Education level: High school diploma or post-secondary education in logistics
• Work environment: Warehousing, terminal, or production environment with high tempo
• Work schedule: Shift work and day shifts are common
• Demand: Limited opportunities, surplus of applicants
• Special skills: IT systems, forklift licenses, and logistics understanding

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a materials coordinator, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as warehouse manager, logistics coordinator, or purchasing assistant, especially for those combining experience with further education in logistics or supply chain management. The Employment Service's forecast indicates limited opportunities for employment within warehousing and terminal personnel nationally, with a surplus of labor. Over five years, demand is expected to remain unchanged. Despite this, there is a continuous need for competent materials coordinators, particularly in larger logistics hubs and industries where material flows are critical for production. For those wishing to broaden their careers, related professions such as transportation planner, logistics administrator, or production planner can be natural next steps.

Common questions about materials coordinators

• What does a materials coordinator earn?
  - The average salary for a materials coordinator is 33 400 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development looked for materials coordinators?
  - Salaries have increased from 31,000 SEK in 2022 to 33 400 SEK in 2024, a rise of approximately 7.7%.
• Are there differences in salary between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 32 700 SEK and men 33 600 SEK, which means women earn 97% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a materials coordinator?
  - High school education with a focus on logistics is most common, but post-secondary studies and certifications are advantageous.
• What does the job market look like for materials coordinators?
  - The job market is characterized by limited opportunities and a surplus of applicants according to the Employment Service.
• What are the most common tasks?
  - Receiving, inventory management, order handling, and coordination of material flows are central tasks.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a materials coordinator?
  - The highest reported salary is 35,500 SEK and the lowest is 25,900 SEK per month.