Najare, concrete products industry

What does a najare do in the concrete product industry? – Tasks and work environment

A najare in the concrete product industry works with reinforcing and shaping concrete structures by binding together reinforcement bars and steel rods according to drawings and technical specifications. The work often involves preparing and assembling reinforcement bars in molds before casting, as well as checking that all materials are correctly placed to ensure the structural integrity. The work environment is typically industrial and can be noisy and dusty, with work outdoors or indoors depending on the project. Physical strength and good coordination are important qualities, as the job often involves heavy lifting and working at heights or in confined spaces.

Salary development over time

The salary for a najare in the concrete product industry has seen steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,800 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 35 500 SEK, corresponding to an increase of about 5%. In 2024, the average salary has continued to rise to 36 000 SEK, with a slightly slower growth rate of around 1.4% compared to the previous year. Factors driving the salary development include increased demand for skilled industry workers and adjustments for inflation and skill requirements. Despite the positive trend, salary differences between genders are evident, and the slow increase last year may indicate market saturation or reduced mobility within the profession.

Najare in the concrete industry salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 36 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,100 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 36,600 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 216 SEK
• Women’s salary: 34,100 SEK/month (94% of men's salary)
• Men’s salary: 36 200 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salary variations occur depending on region and project size

Education and qualifications

To work as a najare in the concrete product industry, a high school education in construction and civil engineering is usually required, with emphasis on concrete work or reinforcement. Many employers also seek practical experience from construction sites and relevant certifications to ensure safety and quality standards are met. Further training and specialized courses in reinforcement, reading drawings, and work environment can provide advantages for employment and career development.

• High school education: Construction and civil engineering program (3 years)
• Certifications: Training in safety, reinforcement, and work environment
• Internships: On-site internships or apprenticeship periods are recommended
• Courses: Reading drawings and material knowledge
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition and technical interest

Common benefits and compensations

Najare in the concrete product industry are often covered by collective agreements that entitle them to overtime pay, holiday pay, wellness allowances, and occupational pension. Other common benefits include work clothing, tools, and sometimes training for skill development. On larger workplaces, allowances for unsociable hours and travel compensation may also be provided.

Competition and challenges

The job market for najare in the concrete industry is characterized by competition for the most attractive positions, especially within large construction projects and in expanding regions. A challenge is the physically demanding work environment, which requires good health and safety awareness. Technical changes and increased demands for documentation and reading drawings mean that workers need to continuously update their skills. Gender pay gaps and representation remain challenges, although the industry strives for greater equality. Additionally, demand is influenced by economic cycles and investments in construction and infrastructure, which can cause regional and market variations.

Tips for those who want to become a najare in the concrete industry

To succeed as a najare, it’s good to combine technical precision with a positive attitude towards teamwork. Developing good physical condition facilitates daily work, especially when tasks are heavy and repetitive. A structured approach and careful reading of drawings help avoid costly mistakes. Flexibility and adaptability are valuable traits when projects vary in size and work environment. Being solution-oriented and taking initiatives for further training in reinforcement and safety can open doors to more advanced tasks and higher salaries. Social skills and effective communication with colleagues and management contribute to a safe and pleasant workplace. Finally, showing engagement in work environment and safety issues is central in this profession.

Key facts about najare in the concrete product industry

• Educational level: High school diploma, construction and civil engineering program
• Work environment: Industrial, often outdoors and physically demanding
• Occupational group: Machine operators, cement, stone, and concrete products
• Job openings: 1,437 (May 2024)
• Gender differences: Women earn 94% of men's salaries

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a najare, there are opportunities to advance to supervisor, production planner, or specialist in reinforcement work. Some choose to further their education to become concrete technicians or machine operators in the construction sector. According to the Swedish Employment Service’s forecasts, no specific assessment is made for the profession due to limited data, but with 1,437 job openings, demand remains good. The profession is influenced by economic cycles and investment in construction, which can cause regional and market variations in outlook. Continued skills development and broad experience increase chances for career advancement and higher salaries.

Frequently asked questions about najare in the concrete industry

• What does a najare earn in the concrete industry?
  - The average salary is 36 000 SEK per month, but varies depending on experience, region, and employer.
• How does one become a najare in the concrete industry?
  - Most commonly by attending the construction and civil engineering program at high school with internships in reinforcement and concrete work.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn on average 34,100 SEK while men earn 36 200 SEK, which corresponds to 94% of men's salaries.
• What is the work environment like for a najare?
  - The work environment is physically demanding, often outdoors or in large industrial facilities, with a focus on safety and ergonomics.
• What career opportunities are there?
  - After a few years, one can advance to supervisor, production planner, or further education within the construction sector.
• How many job openings are there?
  - There are 1,437 job openings within the occupational group of machine operators, cement, stone, and concrete products.
• What education is required?
  - High school education in construction and civil engineering, preferably with internships in reinforcement and concrete.