Fitter, metal products

What does an installer in metal products do? – Tasks and work environment

An installer in metal products works with assembling, installing, and sometimes testing various metal components and finished products. Tasks range from following drawings and instructions to using hand tools, machines, and sometimes automated assembly stations. The work is often carried out in industrial environments where precision, safety, and efficiency are highly valued. The work environment is typically characterized by noise, heavy lifting, and sometimes shift work, requiring physical endurance and good occupational health awareness.

Salary development over time

The salary for installers in metal products has shown a steady positive trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 29,600 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 30 600 SEK during 2023. In 2024, the average salary has further risen to 32 700 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 10.5% over three years. This salary development can partly be explained by increased demand for industrial labor and some competition for experienced installers, along with a generally positive wage trend in the industrial sector. Salary increases have also been influenced by inflation and collective bargaining agreements, but differences remain between genders and regions.

Installer, metal products salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 32 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 29,700 SEK/month (woman, pre-vocational education)
• Highest salary: 35,600 SEK/month (man, regional sector, pre-vocational education)
• Hourly wage: 196 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Men earn on average 33 100 SEK, women 31 100 SEK (women earn 94% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salary variation between regions, highest within certain regional sectors

Education and qualifications

To work as an installer in metal products, a vocational or technical high school education is usually required, but it is also common for individuals with pre-vocational education to be employed and trained on-site. Some employers require specific certifications or experience with certain machines or materials. Internships and trainee programs are common pathways into the profession and can give an advantage in the job market.

• High school education: Industrial, technical, or workshop programs (3 years)
• Pre-vocational education: Can occur, often supplemented with internal training
• Certifications: e.g., forklift license, crane, or hot work permits
• Internships: Often an important part of the training period
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition, technical understanding, and precision

Common benefits and compensations

Installers in metal products are often covered by collective agreements that, in addition to base salary, provide allowances for unsocial hours, overtime, and various shift and supplement payments. Other common benefits include wellness allowances, opportunities for further training, and sometimes occupational pension or additional health insurance through the employer.

Competition and challenges

The profession is characterized by paradoxical recruitment conditions where there is both high unemployment nationwide and difficulty finding the right skills for available positions. Despite there being 1,437 available jobs in the profession, competition exists for the most attractive positions, especially for those lacking the right education or experience. Challenges also include occupational health issues, technological developments requiring ongoing training, and a certain gender imbalance in the profession.

Tips for those who want to become an installer in metal products

To succeed as an installer in metal products, it is good to be precise and have an eye for details, as many tasks require accuracy. Practical skills and technical curiosity facilitate learning new machines and methods, providing better opportunities for development at the workplace. Being flexible and able to handle varied tasks is a great asset, especially when the pace is high or production shifts occur. Good teamwork skills are appreciated by employers because the work is often done in teams, and responsibility is important for contributing to a safe and efficient work environment. Early internships or summer jobs in the industry provide valuable experience and can lead to permanent positions. For those who want to advance, showing initiative and actively seeking further training internally or externally is beneficial. Self-discipline and the ability to follow instructions carefully are qualities that are often valued in recruitment.

Key facts about Installer, metal products

• Education level: High school education, sometimes pre-vocational with on-the-job training
• Work environment: Industry, often noisy and physically demanding
• Work form: Shift work common, including day and evening shifts
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide
• Special skills: Certifications and machine experience are often required

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, many installers can specialize in advanced assembly tasks, take on responsibilities as team leaders, or transition to roles such as machine operator or production technician. Some choose further education in automation or maintenance, which can lead to more qualified and higher-paid positions. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the prospects for employment are large, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. However, the recruitment situation is characterized by a large number of unemployed and difficulties in finding the right skills, meaning those with good education and experience have particularly good chances of securing a job.

Frequently asked questions about Installer, metal products

• What does an Installer, metal products earn?
  - The average salary is 32 700 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, gender, and region.
• What education is required to become an installer in metal products?
  - Industrial or technical high school programs are most common, but pre-vocational education can also be supplemented with on-the-job training.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn on average 33 100 SEK and women 31 100 SEK, which means women earn 94% of men's salaries.
• What does the job market look like for installers of metal products?
  - Opportunities for employment are large nationwide, with 1,437 available jobs within the profession.
• What tasks does an installer in metal products perform?
  - Tasks include assembly, testing, quality control, and sometimes programming of machines.
• What is the highest salary for an installer in metal products?
  - The highest salary is 35,600 SEK and belongs to a man in the regional sector with pre-vocational education. For women, the highest salary is 32,000 SEK.
• What personal qualities are important in the profession?
  - Attention to detail, technical interest, and teamwork skills are especially valued.