NC cutter, metal

What does an NC miller in metal do – tasks and work environment

An NC miller in metal works with programming, setting up, and monitoring computer-controlled milling machines to produce metal components with high precision. The tasks often include interpreting technical drawings, selecting tools, machine setup, and quality control of finished parts. The work is usually performed in an industrial environment with noise, heavy lifting, and requirements for accuracy. NC millers often collaborate with designers, production managers, and other machine operators to ensure production quality and efficiency. Safety routines and the use of protective equipment are central parts of the work environment.

Salary development over time

The profession of NC millers in metal has experienced clear positive salary growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,000 SEK per month, which increased to 34 000 SEK in 2023 and further to 35 200 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total salary increase of approximately 6.7% over the period. This development reflects an increased demand for skilled NC millers, but also the industry's need to retain competence in line with technological development and automation. Salary levels are also influenced by regional differences, education level, and work experience. Despite some decrease in demand in the longer term, the profession continues to be attractive in terms of salary due to its high specialization.

NC miller in metal – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 35 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,400 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 36,100 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 212 SEK
• Women: 34 100 SEK/month (96 % of men's salary)
• Men: 35 400 SEK/month
• Regional differences: May occur, often slightly higher salaries in metropolitan regions and areas with strong industrial concentration.

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming an NC miller in metal typically involves upper secondary industrial technology programs focused on production technology or equivalent adult education. Advanced knowledge in CNC technology and experience in machine programming are highly meritorious, as well as internships in manufacturing industries. Several employers also require documented skills in reading technical drawings and measurement techniques.

• Upper secondary education: Industrial technology program, 3 years
• Adult vocational training: 1–2 years (CNC technology / workshop technology)
• Certificates/courses: CNC programming, measurement techniques, reading technical drawings
• Internship: Often a requirement for workplace-based training (APL) or apprenticeship period
• Prerequisites: Basic mathematics and technology, sometimes B driver's license

Common benefits and compensations

NC millers in metal are often offered benefits such as shift or overtime pay, wellness allowances, and opportunities for further training. Occupational pension, workwear, and supplementary insurance are usually included in employment conditions. Some companies also have bonus systems linked to production efficiency.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for NC millers in metal is currently characterized by a shortage of experienced operators, providing good job opportunities. At the same time, rapid technological development and increased automation pose challenges, requiring continuous skills development. Companies may struggle to find personnel with the right combination of practical experience and digital skills. In the longer term, demand is expected to decrease somewhat as more processes become automated, but specialized NC millers will continue to be sought after in technology-intensive industries. Competition for the most attractive positions may increase, especially in regions where industry is rapidly modernizing.

Tips for those who want to become an NC miller in metal

To succeed as an NC miller in metal, it is good to have a strong sense of accuracy and be solution-oriented in everyday work. Technical curiosity makes it easier to quickly understand and adapt to new machines and software, which is crucial in a constantly evolving industry. Good collaboration skills facilitate communication with colleagues and management, especially during shift work and joint projects. Being resilient and stress-tolerant is also important, as production speed can sometimes be high and tasks repetitive. Those who take initiative, such as suggesting improvements or seeking further training, often have better chances of advancement. Working systematically with quality assurance and safety is essential, while openness to change provides an advantage in the profession.

Key facts about NC millers in metal

• Salary range: 31,400–36,100 SEK/month
• Education level: Upper secondary diploma or vocational training, sometimes supplemented with certificates
• Work environment: Industrial environment with safety equipment requirements
• Demand: High today, but expected to decrease in 5 years
• Number of job vacancies: 1,437 within the profession nationwide

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an NC miller in metal, opportunities open to advance to roles such as production technician, supervisor, or specialist in CNC programming. Some choose to further their education to become machine technicians or operators of advanced machine systems. The Employment Service assesses that job opportunities are good in the short term, but demand may decrease over five years, partly due to increased automation and technological development. Nevertheless, experienced and specialized NC millers are expected to remain in demand in larger industrial regions and high-tech companies.

Common questions about NC millers in metal

• What does an NC miller in metal earn?
  - An NC miller in metal has an average salary of 35 200 SEK per month.
• What are the gender differences in salary for NC millers in metal?
  - Women earn on average 34 100 SEK (96% of men's salary), while men have 35 400 SEK on average.
• What education is required to become an NC miller in metal?
  - Most commonly, upper secondary industrial technology programs or vocational training in CNC technology.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries can be higher in metropolitan regions and areas with strong industrial concentration.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The Employment Service estimates that job opportunities are good today, but demand may decrease over time.
• What is the salary range for NC millers in metal?
  - The salary range is between 31,400 and 36,100 SEK per month.
• What does an NC miller in metal do?
  - The profession involves programming, setting up, and monitoring computer-controlled milling machines to process metal.