Fitter, awnings

What does an awning installer do? – Tasks and work environment

An awning installer primarily works with installing, maintaining, and sometimes repairing awnings on both private homes and commercial properties. Tasks often include measuring, attaching brackets and fabrics, adjusting mechanics and motors, and advising customers on different awning solutions. The work is mostly outdoors and can involve working at heights or from ladders and scaffolding. It requires both technical understanding and good physical ability, as heavy lifting and precision work are common. Safety is central, as the installer regularly handles tools and machinery in varying weather conditions.

Salary development over time

The salary for awning installers has shown a clear upward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 29,600 SEK per month. In 2023, the salary increased to 30 600 SEK, corresponding to a growth of about 3.4%. In 2024, the average salary reached 32 700 SEK, a further increase of nearly 6.9% from the previous year. This positive development can be explained by continued demand for skilled installation work, combined with general salary adjustments and increased focus on the profession’s role in energy efficiency and building comfort. Despite good availability of labor, difficulties in finding experienced installers are reported, which may have contributed to the observed wage increases.

Awning installer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 32 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 29,700 SEK/month (female, various sectors, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 35,600 SEK/month (male, regional sector, pre-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 196 SEK (based on 166 hours/month)
• Women: 31 100 SEK/month
• Men: 33 100 SEK/month
• Women earn: 94% of what men do

Education and qualifications

To work as an awning installer, no formal higher education is required, but high school education in construction, electrical, technology, or equivalent practical experience is often advantageous. Practical experience is highly valued, and many employers offer internal training or apprenticeships to provide necessary skills. Some certifications or specialized courses in work environment, safety, or electrical installation can be a plus, especially if you want to work with motorized or automated awning systems.

• High school education: Construction, electrical, or technology (3 years)
• Internal training: Commonly through internships or traineeships
• Certifications: Work environment and safety courses recommended
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition and technical interest
• Tips: Practical experience and attention to detail are highly valued

Common benefits and compensations

Many awning installers are covered by collective agreements regulating base salary, overtime pay, and vacation. Additional benefits such as occupational pension, wellness contributions, and work clothing are common. Some employers also offer bonuses based on results, as well as opportunities for training and certification in work environment and safety.

Competition and challenges

The profession of awning installer involves both competition and certain challenges. Despite many job openings nationwide, there are reports of difficulties in finding the right expertise, especially experienced installers with specialized skills. The work is physically demanding and often outdoors, which can be tough during colder and wetter seasons. Seasonal variations can also lead to uneven workload, with peak periods in spring and summer. The technological development of the profession, with more motorized and automated solutions, makes continuous skills development increasingly important. Some gender differences in salary and representation still exist, although the industry strives for greater gender equality.

Tips for aspiring awning installers

To succeed as an awning installer, it’s good to have a solutions-oriented attitude and a strong interest in technology. Precision is crucial, as each installation requires accuracy and safety awareness. Being physically resilient makes the work easier, especially when working at heights or in challenging weather. Good teamwork and customer service skills are important, as contact with clients and colleagues occurs daily. It’s also wise to be open to further education, such as safety courses or following technological developments in the industry. Showing initiative and willingness to take responsibility is appreciated by employers, especially in smaller teams where flexibility is an asset. Punctuality and the ability to work systematically are also valued to ensure projects are completed efficiently and safely.

Key facts about Awning Installer

• Education level: High school diploma or equivalent practical experience
• Work environment: Outdoors, often at heights and in varying weather
• Employment type: Employed by companies, sometimes seasonal work
• Demand: Great opportunities nationwide
• Special skills: Installation of motorized or automated systems

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as an awning installer, there are opportunities to advance to supervisor, technical specialist, or project manager within installation. Some choose to start their own business in sun protection or related crafts. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts for the group of installers of metal, rubber, and plastic products, job opportunities are expected to be plentiful nationwide, with demand remaining stable over the next five years. However, recruitment is characterized by a paradox: while many jobs are available, there are also difficulties finding the right skills, and a relatively high unemployment rate persists within the profession. There are over 1,400 job openings in the field, indicating good prospects for those with the right skills and willingness to develop in their area.

Frequently asked questions about Awning Installer

• What does an Awning Installer earn?
  - The average salary is 32 700 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, gender, and region.
• What is the hourly wage for installers in the awning industry?
  - The hourly wage averages 196 SEK based on 166 working hours per month.
• Are there differences between men and women in salary?
  - Yes, women earn on average 31 100 SEK while men earn 33 100 SEK, meaning women earn about 94% of men's salary.
• What education is required to become an awning installer?
  - High school education in construction, technology, or equivalent practical experience is recommended.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Job opportunities are plentiful nationwide, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What are the common workplace risks?
  - Work is often performed at heights and outdoors, requiring safety awareness and physical ability.
• Are there opportunities for further training?
  - Yes, many employers offer courses in work environment, safety, and technical development of awning systems.