Furniture fitter, manufacturing

What does a furniture assembler in manufacturing do? – Tasks and work environment

A furniture assembler in manufacturing mainly works on assembling and finishing furniture in a factory or workshop environment. Tasks include putting together wooden parts, attaching fittings, and checking that the final product meets quality standards. The role often involves reading and interpreting drawings, using various hand tools and machines, and sometimes performing simple repairs or adjustments according to customer requests. The work environment involves both standing and sitting work, often in teams, where precision and attention to detail are crucial for the final result.

Salary development over time

The salary for a furniture assembler in manufacturing has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,900 SEK per month, increasing the following year to 32 000 SEK, and finally reaching 33 300 SEK in 2024. This increase corresponds to approximately 8% over three years. The trend can largely be explained by increased demand for skilled assemblers within wood products, along with investments in technology and efficiency improvements in production processes. Union negotiations and adjustments for inflation have also contributed to the positive salary trend. Gender differences still exist but have decreased somewhat over time.

Furniture assembler in manufacturing salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 33 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 32,100 SEK/month (woman, high school education)
• Highest salary: 33,800 SEK/month (man, post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 200 SEK/hour
• Women: 32 400 SEK/month
• Men: 33 500 SEK/month
• Women earn: 97% of what men do

Education and qualifications

To work as a furniture assembler in manufacturing, a high school education in craftsmanship, wood technology, or industrial production is usually required. Practical experience is highly valued, and many employers offer internal training or trainee programs for new hires. The profession also suits those who have completed shorter courses or certifications in assembly, quality assurance, and work environment safety. Basic knowledge of reading drawings and operating machinery may be a requirement for some positions.

• High school education: Craftsmanship program or industrial technology program, 3 years
• Internships: Often included during education
• Courses/certificates: Drawing interpretation, work environment, and machine safety
• Prerequisites: Good physical health, precision, and technical understanding
• Tips: Combine education with summer jobs or extra work in the furniture or carpentry industry

Common benefits and compensations

Furniture assemblers in manufacturing are often covered by collective agreements that provide occupational pension, insurance, and shift work supplements. Other common benefits include wellness allowances, work clothing, and opportunities for further training and skills development within the company. Some employers also offer bonus programs linked to production targets.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a furniture assembler in manufacturing is relatively low nationwide, as demand for skilled assemblers remains high. At the same time, there is a paradoxical situation with both recruitment difficulties and high unemployment within the profession. Challenges include employers seeking candidates with the right combination of technical skills and practical experience, while the industry is affected by economic fluctuations and automation. Those with specialization or experience in modern production technology have increased employment opportunities.

Tips for those wanting to become a furniture assembler in manufacturing

To succeed as a furniture assembler, it’s good to have a genuine interest in craftsmanship and materials. Precision is an important trait, as accuracy in assembly affects both quality and efficiency. The ability to collaborate facilitates teamwork, and flexibility helps with shifting tasks. Being solution-oriented offers advantages when unexpected problems arise during assembly. Practical experience, such as through internships or summer jobs, is highly valuable and provides a better understanding of the profession’s demands. Those with technical curiosity and a desire to develop within the field have good opportunities for further education. Finally, an eye for detail is crucial, especially when working on customer-specific or custom-ordered products.

Key facts about furniture assembler in manufacturing

• Education level: High school education in craftsmanship, wood technology, or industry
• Work environment: Workshop or factory, often team-based
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide
• Gender distribution: Men 33 500 SEK/month, women 32 400 SEK/month
• Job openings: 1,437 advertised positions within the profession

Career paths and outlook

After three to five years as a furniture assembler in manufacturing, career development can lead to more specialized roles, such as supervisor, quality inspector, or technical support within production. Specialization in advanced assembly or CNC machines is also possible for those who pursue further training. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, job opportunities in the profession are large, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Recruitment difficulties are reported, meaning good prospects for those with the right skills. However, automation and technological development may influence the profession and increase the requirements for technical knowledge.

Common questions about furniture assembler in manufacturing

• What does a furniture assembler in manufacturing earn?
  - The average salary is 33 300 SEK/month, with variation between 32,100 and 33,800 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What are the gender differences within the profession?
  - Men earn on average 33 500 SEK/month and women 32 400 SEK/month, which means women earn about 97% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a furniture assembler?
  - High school education in craftsmanship, wood technology, or industry is most common, often complemented with internships or courses.
• Are there good job opportunities?
  - Yes, currently there are 1,437 job openings, and demand is expected to remain high.
• What is the work environment like for a furniture assembler?
  - Work mainly takes place in workshops or factories, often in teams and during periods of high pace.
• Can one advance in their career as a furniture assembler?
  - Yes, after a few years, it is possible to progress to roles such as supervisor, quality inspector, or specialize in advanced assembly.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Salary levels may vary slightly between regions, but nationally the average is 33 300 SEK/month.