Metal presses

What does a metal press operator do? – Tasks and work environment

Metal press operators mainly work with shaping and processing metal components using various types of press machines. The profession involves monitoring, setting up, and operating machines that press, bend, or cut metal sheets to desired shapes and sizes. The work requires precision and technical knowledge, as the machines often handle large forces and accuracy is crucial for the final result. The work environment is typically industrial, often in larger production facilities where noise and heavy lifting are common. Safety routines are central, and protective equipment is regularly used to minimize the risk of accidents.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the average salary for metal press operators has steadily increased. In 2022, the average was 33,000 SEK, followed by an increase to 34 000 SEK in 2023, and further up to 35 200 SEK in 2024. This represents an increase of approximately 6.7% during the period. The salary growth is linked to the current shortage of skilled labor in the industry and increased demands for technical competence and machine skills. At the same time, rapid technological development and automation have led to higher productivity requirements, which can also influence salary levels. Despite positive trends in recent years, demand for the profession is expected to decline in the longer term, which may impact future salary development.

Metal press operator salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 35 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,400 SEK/month (women), 31,800 SEK/month (men)
• Highest salary: 34,500 SEK/month (women), 36,100 SEK/month (men)
• Hourly wage: 212 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 96% of what men do (women: 34 100 SEK, men: 35 400 SEK)
• Regional differences: Varies depending on labor market and industry

Education and qualifications

To work as a metal press operator, a high school education in industrial technology or equivalent experience in the metal industry is usually required. Many employers also prefer candidates who have completed specific courses in machine handling or have practical experience with industrial processes. Internships during education are often advantageous, and technical understanding along with the ability to follow safety routines are key qualifications.

• High school education: Industrial technology program (3 years)
• Certifications: Courses in machine safety and industrial processes
• Practical training: Internships or trainee periods are often included during education
• Prerequisites: Technical interest and basic mathematics
• Tips for choosing: Focus on automation and modern machine systems

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to the base salary, benefits such as overtime pay, wellness allowances, pension schemes, and protective gear are often offered. Bonus programs linked to production targets are also common, along with work clothes and safety equipment.

Competition and challenges

The profession as a metal press operator is characterized by high demand for labor, but also increasing competition from technological development and automation. The recruitment situation today is marked by a shortage of experienced operators, which benefits those with the right education and practical experience. However, demand is expected to decrease over the next five years as more tasks become automated and technical skills are increasingly required. For those establishing themselves in the profession, continuous further training and adaptation to new technologies are essential. The work environment can be physically demanding, and strict adherence to safety regulations is vital.

Tips for aspiring metal press operators

To succeed as a metal press operator, it helps to have a technical interest and be precise, as machines require accuracy during setup and operation. Responsibility is important for handling safety routines and maintaining a secure work environment. Good teamwork skills are also valuable, especially since work often occurs in teams where communication must be effective. Flexibility is beneficial when new tasks or machines are introduced, and a willingness to learn is crucial to keep up with technological advancements. Physical endurance and good condition are advantages, as the workday can be long and physically demanding. Lastly, problem-solving skills are important because unforeseen situations sometimes require quick and well-considered decisions.

Key facts about metal press operators

• Educational level: High school diploma, preferably in industrial technology
• Work environment: Industrial setting with machines and protective equipment
• Typical work form: Shift work in production
• Demand: Large short-term shortage, but decreasing over five years
• Special skills: Machine handling and technical understanding

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years in the profession, opportunities exist to advance to roles such as production technician, supervisor, or specialist in maintenance and machine setup. Some choose to further their education in automation or process technology, which can lead to more qualified and higher-paid positions. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, job opportunities are currently plentiful, but demand is expected to decline over five years due to increased automation. Despite this, the shortage of experienced metal press operators remains significant, providing good job prospects for those with proper training and adaptability. Currently, there are 1437 job openings in the field of machine setters and operators, metal work.

Frequently asked questions about metal press operators

• What is the average salary of a metal press operator?
  - A metal press operator has an average salary of 35 200 SEK per month.
• What are the gender differences in salaries for metal press operators?
  - Women earn approximately 96% of what men do in the profession, with an average salary of 34 100 SEK for women and 35 400 SEK for men.
• What education is required to become a metal press operator?
  - High school education in industrial technology is most common, preferably supplemented with practical training and courses in machine safety.
• What is the job market like for metal press operators?
  - Currently, there is a shortage of experienced metal press operators, but demand is expected to decrease over five years.
• What are the lowest and highest salaries for metal press operators?
  - The lowest salary is 31,400 SEK (women) and 31,800 SEK (men); the highest salary is 34,500 SEK (women) and 36,100 SEK (men).
• What tasks does a metal press operator perform?
  - The tasks involve setting up, monitoring, and operating machines that process and shape metal.
• What benefits are common for metal press operators?
  - Common benefits include overtime pay, wellness allowances, pension schemes, and protective equipment.