Engine adjuster

What does a motor adjuster do? – Tasks and work environment

A motor adjuster primarily works with inspecting, adjusting, and ensuring that vehicle engines operate optimally. The profession often involves precise testing, troubleshooting, and fine-tuning engine settings, both in manufacturing and service workshops. Motor adjusters may also work with installing new parts, performing repairs, and following up with functional tests and documentation. The work environment is typically industrial, combining manual work with advanced measurement technology. High demands are placed on precision, technical understanding, and the ability to work systematically, often in teams but sometimes independently on specialized assignments.

Salary development over time

The salary development for motor adjusters has been steady and showing a positive trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,100 SEK, followed by an increase to 32 700 SEK in 2023. The latest year, 2024, the salary has further increased to 33 800 SEK, corresponding to a total increase of about 8.7% over three years. Growing demand for skilled labor in the automotive industry and the technological shift towards more advanced engines are believed to be behind the salary increase. The market is also characterized by a certain shortage of workforce, which contributes to upward pressure on wages. However, salary levels are expected to stabilize as demand for motor adjusters remains unchanged according to national forecasts.

Motor adjuster salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 32,800 SEK/month (women), 33,100 SEK/month (men)
• Highest salary: 35,400 SEK/month (men), 33,000 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 203 SEK (average, based on 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Women earn 97% of men's salaries (women 32,800 SEK, men 33 900 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and employer, but national statistics show small variations.

Education and qualifications

To work as a motor adjuster, a high school education with a focus on vehicle technology or industrial production is usually required. Many employers also seek experience from vehicle or workshop work and the ability to handle advanced measurement technology and diagnostic equipment. Practical experience is highly valued, but additional courses and certifications provide competitive advantages during employment.

• Formal education: Vehicle or industrial technical high school program (3 years)
• Certifications: Courses in measurement technology, electrical and engine technology
• Internship: On-the-job training during high school or as a trainee
• Prerequisites: Basic high school eligibility, technical interest
• Further education: Opportunities for YH-education or company-internal courses

Common benefits and compensations

Motor adjusters are often covered by collective agreements that provide occupational pensions, overtime pay, wellness allowances, and insurance. Other common benefits include subsidized lunches, work clothes, and opportunities for skills development through internal or external training.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a motor adjuster is moderate, but the recruitment situation is characterized by the paradox that there is a shortage of qualified applicants while many leave the profession. Technological changes in the automotive industry, especially electrification and digitalization, impose higher demands on competence and continuous training. Challenges also include keeping up with new diagnostic tools and working with both older and newer engine technologies. Additionally, the work environment can be physically demanding and occasionally stressful, especially during production peaks or tight deadlines.

Tips for those who want to become a motor adjuster

To succeed as a motor adjuster, it is good to have a genuine technical interest and a willingness to learn new things. Precision is crucial since small errors can have significant consequences for engine function, so practicing accuracy and systematic work provides advantages. A problem-solving mindset is needed in troubleshooting situations, where the goal is to quickly identify and fix faults. It is also important to be cooperative and able to communicate clearly, as the work often takes place in teams. Flexibility and adaptability are valuable traits when working with new technologies and methods. Being persistent and stress-resistant helps during periods of high workload, and early internships can be beneficial for gaining experience and building a network in the industry.

Key facts about motor adjusters

• Education level: High school diploma (vehicle or industrial technology)
• Work environment: Industrial workshop or vehicle factory
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment according to the Employment Service
• Average salary: 33 800 SEK/month
• Number of job openings: 1,437 within the vehicle assembly profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, motor adjusters can develop into specialists in engine technology, supervisors, or production managers within the automotive industry. There are also opportunities to further educate as technicians or engineers, especially if an interest in development and new technology is strong. Forecasts from the Employment Service show that the demand for motor adjusters and vehicle assemblers is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, but job opportunities remain abundant. However, recruitment difficulties exist, which means good prospects for those with the right skills and willingness to continue education in new technologies. The industry is influenced by the transition to electric and hybrid vehicles, making knowledge in these areas increasingly important for future career opportunities.

Frequently asked questions about motor adjusters

• What is the average salary of a motor adjuster?
  - The average salary for a motor adjuster is 33 800 SEK per month.
• What are the gender differences within the profession?
  - Women earn 97% of what men do; men have an average of 33 900 SEK and women 32,800 SEK.
• What education is required to become a motor adjuster?
  - High school education in vehicle technology or industrial production is most common, sometimes supplemented with certification courses.
• What are the future prospects for motor adjusters?
  - Job opportunities are plentiful, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years according to the Employment Service.
• Are there regional salary differences for motor adjusters?
  - National data shows small variations between regions, but some larger employers may offer higher salaries in metropolitan areas.
• What are the most common benefits for motor adjusters?
  - Occupational pension, overtime pay, wellness allowance, and training are common benefits.
• How has the salary development been over time?
  - Salaries have increased from 31,100 SEK (2022) to 33 800 SEK (2024), a rise of nearly 9% over three years.