Model technician, metal

What does a metal model technician do? – Tasks and work environment

A metal model technician works on manufacturing and processing models, molds, and prototypes in metal for industrial needs, often within tool manufacturing and product development. The work involves interpreting drawings, using advanced machines and tools, and performing precision work to ensure models meet exact measurements and functional requirements. The work environment is typically workshop-based and can be physically and technically demanding, involving both manual tasks and computer-controlled processes. The technician works closely with engineers and designers and must often adapt to rapid changes and high quality standards within the industry.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for a metal model technician has increased from 33,500 SEK per month in 2022 to 35 200 SEK in 2023 and further to 35 900 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 7.2% during this period, which is slightly above the general wage increase in the industry. This positive trend can be explained by increased demand for qualified technicians as the industry modernizes and digitalizes, along with the need for specialized skills in model production. The wage increase also reflects technological development that demands higher education and experience, leading employers to pay more for the right expertise. Although the profession is relatively niche, a stable wage development is observed, indicating the profession's long-term relevance.

Metal model technician salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 35 900 SEK/month
• Lowest/Highest salary: Data unavailable, but average for men is 36 000 SEK
• Hourly wage: 216 SEK
• Gender differences: Only data for men, 36 000 SEK; data for women is unavailable
• Regional differences: Data unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a metal model technician, a high school education in industrial technology, tool engineering, or equivalent is usually required, often complemented with specialized courses and practical experience. The industry highly values both formal education and practical skills, and many employers prefer candidates with internships or trainee programs. Success requires good understanding of technical drawings and the ability to work independently and in teams.

• High school education: Industrial technology program, specialization in tool engineering (3 years)
• Vocational college: Technical education focused on model or tool technology (2 years)
• Internship: Long-term practical training or apprenticeship is recommended
• Certifications: Courses in CAD/CAM and CNC control are advantageous
• Prerequisites: Good knowledge of mathematics and technology

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to base salary, metal model technicians often receive benefits such as wellness allowances, compensation for unsocial working hours, opportunities for skills development, and sometimes bonuses upon project completion. Pension schemes and insurances are also common, and some employers offer subsidized meals or travel allowances depending on the workplace location.

Competition and challenges

The profession of a metal model technician is specialized and demands high technical competence, precision, and the ability to work with advanced machinery. Competition for the most attractive positions can be fierce, especially at larger companies or within specialized industries such as automotive and tooling. Staying updated with technological developments and continuously developing skills is essential to meet industry demands for precision and efficiency. Since the profession requires both practical craftsmanship and theoretical understanding, ongoing education and experience building are vital. Uncertainty about future job prospects partly stems from the profession being part of a broader occupational group, making specific future outlook assessments challenging.

Tips for aspiring metal model technicians

To succeed as a metal model technician, having a genuine interest in technology and problem-solving, being meticulous, and maintaining quality in all tasks are beneficial. Investing time in learning to read and interpret technical drawings provides a solid foundation, and actively seeking internships during education offers valuable experience. Good teamwork skills are important since work often occurs in teams, and staying updated on new techniques and machinery can give a competitive edge. Flexibility and patience are crucial, especially when working on complex projects where solutions are not always obvious. Attention to detail combined with the ability to see the bigger picture makes it easier to deliver models that meet high industry standards. Finally, a willingness to continually learn and develop is a key success factor in this profession.

Key facts about a metal model technician

• Education level: High school or vocational college in technology
• Work environment: Workshop setting with manual and machine work
• Typical employment: Permanent, often full-time
• Demand: 1,437 available jobs in the toolmaker profession
• Special skills: CAD/CAM, CNC control, technical drawing reading

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a metal model technician, it is common to advance to more specialized roles such as toolmaker, supervisor, or technical project leader. Some choose to further their education in CAD/CAM or CNC programming to work with more advanced manufacturing processes. The employment agency’s forecasts for toolmakers currently do not provide an exact assessment for the metal model technician profession, but with 1,437 available jobs, demand is expected to remain strong. Over time, automation and digitalization may influence the profession, but the need for technical expertise and problem-solving skills is expected to persist.

Common questions about a metal model technician

• What does a metal model technician earn?
  - A metal model technician has an average salary of 35 900 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a metal model technician?
  - A high school education in industrial technology or tool engineering is recommended, sometimes supplemented with vocational college and practical training.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - No specific information about regional salary differences is available for this profession.
• What is the job market like for a metal model technician?
  - There are 1,437 available jobs within the toolmaker profession, which includes metal model technicians.
• What personal qualities are important in this profession?
  - Attention to detail, technical interest, and problem-solving skills are especially important.
• What are the job tasks of a metal model technician?
  - Tasks include manufacturing and processing models, molds, and prototypes in metal, often using advanced technology.
• What career paths are available after a few years?
  - Roles such as toolmaker, supervisor, or technical specialist.