NC drill

What does an NC operator do? – Tasks and work environment

An NC operator works with computer-controlled (numerically controlled, NC) drilling machines to process metal and other materials with high precision. Tasks include reading and interpreting drawings, setting up and monitoring machines, changing tools, and verifying that the results meet the required dimensions and quality. NC operators often work in workshop environments with high demands on accuracy and safety. The work may involve shift work, noise, and handling heavy machine parts, but also collaboration with other technicians, production managers, and quality engineers.

Salary development over time

The salary for NC operators has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,000 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 34 000 SEK, representing an increase of about 3%. In 2024, the average salary reached 35 200 SEK, a further increase of approximately 3.5% compared to the previous year. This positive trend can partly be explained by the high demand for skilled machine operators in metalworking, but also by the ongoing labor shortage in the industry. Meanwhile, technological development and increased automation have influenced salary formation, especially for those with specialized skills in CNC programming and advanced machine handling. Despite this, demand for the profession is expected to decline slightly in the long term, which may affect future salary development.

NC operator salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 35 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,400 SEK/month (women), 31,800 SEK/month (men)
• Highest salary: 34,500 SEK/month (women), 36,100 SEK/month (men)
• Hourly wage: 212 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Women earn 34 100 SEK (96% of men's salary, which is 35 400 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and employer, but specific figures are not always available.

Education and qualifications

To work as an NC operator, a high school education in industrial technology is usually required, preferably with a focus on CNC technology or similar. Many employers also seek practical experience from the industry or supplementary courses in machine control and programming. Some choose to further their education through vocational college or in-house trainee programs to broaden their opportunities and increase competence.

• High school education: Industrial technology program, 3 years
• Vocational college: CNC operator, 1–2 years
• Certifications: Courses in CNC programming and machine control
• Internship: Recommended to strengthen practical skills
• Prerequisites: Interest in technology and mathematics, good problem-solving skills

Common benefits and compensations

NC operators are often covered by collective agreements that provide rights to overtime pay, shift allowances, wellness contributions, and sometimes bonus programs linked to production results. It is common to receive wellness benefits, work clothing, and sometimes subsidized meals. Some employers also offer skills development and bonus programs related to production performance.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as an NC operator has long been low due to the shortage of trained workforce and high demand in the industry. However, the profession faces challenges, where technological development and increased automation continually raise the competence requirements. In the long term, demand may decrease as more tasks are automated or moved to countries with lower costs. To meet these changes, continuous further education and adaptation to new technologies are necessary. The work environment demands both physical endurance and high safety awareness.

Tips for aspiring NC operators

To succeed as an NC operator, it is good to combine technical interest with accuracy and problem-solving skills. Gaining practical experience early, such as through internships or summer jobs in industry, can provide valuable insights and contacts. A structured approach helps when working with complex machines where small mistakes can have significant consequences. Collaboration skills are important since the work is often team-based with other technicians and production staff. The ability to quickly understand new instructions and digital systems is increasingly vital, as is a willingness to continuously update skills to meet industry developments. Being flexible and open to change is especially helpful in a field where automation and technological shifts are common.

Key facts about NC operators

• Education level: High school or vocational college
• Work environment: Industrial workshop, often shift work
• Demand: 1,437 job openings in 2024
• Gender distribution: Predominantly men, but the proportion of women is increasing
• Special skills: CNC programming and machine control

Career paths and outlook

After three to five years as an NC operator, opportunities open to advance to roles such as senior machine operator, production technician, or supervisor within the industry. Some choose to specialize in programming advanced CNC machines or move into quality control and process development. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, job opportunities for machine setters and operators in metalworking remain large nationwide, but demand is expected to decline over five years due to increased automation. Nonetheless, there are still good prospects for those investing in technical further education and specialization in digitalization and robotics.

Frequently asked questions about NC operators

• What does an NC operator earn?
  - An NC operator has an average salary of 35 200 SEK per month, but the salary varies depending on experience, education, and gender.
• How to become an NC operator?
  - The most common route is a high school education in industrial technology, often supplemented with courses in CNC technology or vocational college.
• What are the job tasks of an NC operator?
  - Tasks include setting up and monitoring computer-controlled drilling machines, reading drawings, and ensuring the quality of processed parts.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 34 100 SEK and men 35 400 SEK, which means women earn 96% of men's salaries.
• What does the future look like for NC operators?
  - In the short term, demand is high, but in the long term, it may decline due to automation and technological development.
• What benefits do NC operators have?
  - Common benefits include overtime pay, shift allowances, wellness contributions, and sometimes bonus programs linked to production results.
• How many job openings are available for NC operators?
  - There are 1437 current job openings in the profession according to recent statistics.