NC cutter, wood

What does an NC milling machine operator, wood, do – tasks and work environment

An NC milling machine operator in wood works with computer-controlled milling machines to process wood details according to precise specifications. Tasks include programming, setting up, and monitoring NC machines, often in industrial environments where precision and efficiency are crucial. It is common to read and interpret drawings, perform quality checks, and carry out maintenance on the machines. The work environment is characterized by noise, mechanical risks, and demands for accuracy, but also offers opportunities for collaboration with other roles within production.

Salary development over time

The salary for NC milling machine operators in wood has increased steadily over recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,100 SEK per month. In 2023, it rose slightly to 32 900 SEK, and in 2024 the average salary reached 33 000 SEK. This represents an increase of approximately 6% over three years, with the largest growth between 2022 and 2023. This development reflects a stable demand for the profession, while automation and technological advances demand higher skills. Despite the positive trend, salary levels and growth are relatively modest compared to some other industrial professions, which can be explained by competition from similar roles and a continuous need for technical further training.

NC milling machine operator, wood, salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 32,200 SEK/month (woman), 32,700 SEK/month (man)
• Highest salary: 33,600 SEK/month (woman), 33,800 SEK/month (man)
• Hourly wage: 198 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 97% of what men do
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To work as an NC milling machine operator in wood, a vocational education in wood technology or machine carpentry is usually required, often supplemented with practical experience or certification courses in CNC control. Formal education can be obtained via high school or adult education, but certification courses and on-the-job training are also common. Basic understanding of technology and the ability to interpret drawings are fundamental for the profession.

• High school education: Industrial technology program, wood specialization (3 years)
• Adult education / Vocational training: Machine carpentry or CNC operator in wood (1–2 years)
• Certification courses: CNC control, machine technology
• Internship: Often part of education or as a trainee
• Prerequisites: Basic mathematics and technical understanding

Common benefits and compensations

NC milling machine operators in wood often have access to collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, insurance, and wellness contributions. Overtime pay and shift allowances may apply depending on the workplace and working hours. In some cases, work clothes or subsidized meals are provided. Opportunities for further training and skills development are also common in larger companies.

Competition and challenges

The job market for NC wood milling machine operators is characterized by steady but not expanding demand. As the profession is part of a broader occupational group, competition can vary between regions and employers. Technological changes and increased automation require continuous skills development, which can be a challenge for those wishing to maintain their attractiveness in the job market. Limited data makes it difficult to provide precise forecasts, but the number of available jobs is relatively large. At the same time, the work environment can be physically demanding, requiring both technical competence and good physical condition for long-term success.

Tips for those who want to become NC milling machine operators, wood

To succeed as an NC milling machine operator in wood, it’s good to have analytical skills, as programming and problem-solving are central parts of the work. An interest in technology helps in understanding and managing advanced machines, while precision is crucial to avoid errors in production. Endurance and good physical condition assist in handling the work environment and pace on the workshop floor. Communication skills are valuable for collaborating with colleagues and understanding customer requirements. Finally, actively seeking internships and further education is recommended, as the industry changes rapidly and new knowledge is often required.

Key facts about NC milling machine operators, wood

• Salary range: 32,200–33,800 SEK/month
• Education level: High school or vocational training
• Work environment: Industrial workshop, often shift work
• Number of available jobs (2024): 1,437 within the profession
• Gender salary gap: Women earn 97% of what men do

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an NC wood milling machine operator, there may be opportunities to advance to supervisor, production technician, or quality manager within the wood industry. Some choose to specialize in machine programming or CAD/CAM, which can open doors to more advanced roles. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, it is difficult to give an exact assessment of future prospects due to limited data, but the number of available jobs indicates stable demand. Automation and technological development are expected to sustain the need for skilled NC wood milling machine operators, especially those who continuously update their skills and follow industry developments.

Common questions about NC milling machine operators, wood

• What does an NC milling machine operator, wood, earn?
  - An NC milling machine operator in wood has an average salary of 33 000 SEK per month, but the salary varies between 32,200 SEK and 33,800 SEK depending on experience, gender, and workplace.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 97% of what men do in the profession. Men have an average salary of 33 100 SEK and women 32,200 SEK.
• What education is required to become an NC milling machine operator, wood?
  - The most common education is a vocational training in wood technology or machine carpentry, often supplemented with practical experience and certification courses in CNC control.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Projections show stable demand, but precise assessment is lacking due to limited data. There are 1,437 available jobs within the profession.
• What tasks does an NC milling machine operator, wood, perform?
  - Tasks include programming, setup, and supervision of NC-controlled milling machines, quality control, and some machine maintenance.
• What is the most common work environment for an NC milling machine operator, wood?
  - The profession is mainly practiced in industrial workshop environments, often with shift work and requirements for good physical health.
• Are there opportunities for further education or specialization?
  - Yes, further education in programming, CAD/CAM, and machine technology is common and can lead to more advanced roles or specializations.