How much does a NC programmer make

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NC programmer

35 200 kr

Machine setters and machine operators, metal work

31 400 - 36 100 kr / month

Women earn 96% of what men do.

Industriell tillverkning

What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression NC programmer

Average salary 35 200 kr
Males 35 400 kr
Females 34 100 kr
1 Likes 0 Comments 167 Vacant jobs ->

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

An NC programmer works with programming and controlling computer-controlled machines, known as numerically controlled (NC/CNC) machines, used in the metal industry to produce components with high precision. Tasks include interpreting drawings, writing and optimizing NC programs, selecting tools and materials, as well as monitoring and adjusting machine operation to ensure quality and efficiency. The role often involves close collaboration with machine operators, production engineers, and quality managers. The work environment is typically industrial, possibly involving noisy workshop settings where accuracy, safety, and technical interest are crucial.

Salary development over time

NC programmers have experienced steady salary increases in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,000 SEK per month, rising to 34 000 SEK in 2023 and further to 35 200 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 6.7% over three years. Salary development has been influenced by continued high demand for technically skilled personnel in industry and a growing focus on automation and digitalization. Although demand is expected to decline in the long term, the current shortage of qualified NC programmers has pushed salaries upward. Regional variations may occur, especially in areas with significant industrial activity.

NC programmer salary – comprehensive overview

  • Average salary: 35 200 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 31,400 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, less than 9 years of education)
  • Highest salary: 36,100 SEK/month (male, various sectors, less than 3 years post-secondary education)
  • Hourly wage: 212 SEK
  • Gender differences: Men earn 35 400 SEK/month, women 34 100 SEK/month (women earn 96% of men's salary)
  • Regional differences: Salary variations occur depending on industry presence and demand

Education and qualifications

To work as an NC programmer, a technical high school education focusing on industrial engineering or production technology is usually required, often supplemented with further training in CNC technology. Many employers also value experience with programming in various control systems and practical experience from workshop environments. Certifications and specialized courses in the field can also enhance competence.

  • Technical high school: Industrial engineering or production technology (3 years)
  • Post-secondary education: YH training in CNC/NC programming (1–2 years)
  • Certifications: Courses in machine control, CAD/CAM, and CNC programming
  • Practical experience: Hands-on training or trainee positions during education
  • Prerequisites: Basic mathematics, technical skills, and computer literacy

NC programmers often work in teams where collaboration with production staff and technicians is essential for the final result. The ability to troubleshoot quickly and adapt to new machines and software is a valued trait in the job market. Additionally, the role offers the opportunity to work with the latest technology in industrial automation.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Among the most common benefits for NC programmers are shift premiums, wellness allowances, occupational pension schemes, and opportunities for skill development through internal or external training. Many employers also provide work clothing, subsidized lunches, and sometimes bonus programs linked to production targets.

Challenges and competition

Despite the current shortage of qualified NC programmers, the profession faces challenges in the future. The increasing automation within industry and the development of more advanced machines are expected to reduce demand for traditional programmers over the next five years. At the same time, continuous updating of skills is necessary to meet technological changes. Competition may intensify as more people are trained in the field and job tasks evolve. To remain attractive in the job market, broad competence and experience with various control systems are important.

Tips for aspiring NC programmers

To succeed as an NC programmer, it is beneficial to combine technical interest with precision and problem-solving skills. Gaining early familiarity with CAD/CAM software and being open to learning new control systems gives an advantage. A structured approach to programming complex parts facilitates work, and effective collaboration with colleagues is crucial in production environments. Flexibility and adaptability are valuable when machinery is renewed or production requirements change. Actively seeking internships and showing interest in technological development are appreciated by employers. Good communication skills also facilitate teamwork and contribute to a positive work environment.

Key facts about NC programmers

  • Educational level: Technical high school or YH training in CNC/NC
  • Work environment: Industrial setting with advanced machines
  • Demand: Great job opportunities, but long-term decline expected
  • Special skills: Programming of numerically controlled machines and CAD/CAM
  • Job openings: 1,437 in the fields of machine setters and operators, metalworking

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, an NC programmer can advance to roles such as production engineer, supervisor, or specialist in programming and automation. Some choose to further their education in CAD/CAM development or move into project management and technical support. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, job opportunities are good in the short term, but demand is expected to decrease in the long term due to technological development and increased automation. Nevertheless, there remains a national shortage of skilled NC programmers, making employment prospects favorable in the coming years.

Common questions about NC programmers

  • What does an NC programmer earn?
    - The average salary for an NC programmer is 35 200 SEK per month.
  • What are the salary differences between men and women?
    - Men earn on average 35 400 SEK and women 34 100 SEK, which means women earn 96% of men's salaries.
  • What education is required to become an NC programmer?
    - The most common are technical high school or vocational training in CNC/NC technology.
  • What are the future prospects for NC programmers?
    - Job opportunities are plentiful today, but demand is expected to decrease in the long term due to increased automation.
  • What tasks does an NC programmer perform?
    - Tasks include programming, monitoring, and optimizing computer-controlled machines, as well as quality control of produced parts.
  • Are there regional salary differences?
    - Yes, salaries can vary depending on region and industrial presence.
  • Can NC programmers further their education?
    - Yes, further training in CAD/CAM, automation, or production technology is common.

Richard Andersson

Richard Andersson - 2025-07-13 04:58:20

Occupation
Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a NC programmer is 36100 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Multiple sectors with a post-secondary education, less than 3 years. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 34500 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a NC programmer is 31400 kr. This salary belongs to a woman also working in the Privately employed officials. The lowest salary for a man in this profession is 31800 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
18-24 100% 30700 kr 32600 kr
25-34 98% 33400 kr 35300 kr
35-44 95% 33500 kr 35200 kr
45-54 97% 34300 kr 35900 kr
55-64 94% 34300 kr 35800 kr
65-68 33300 kr 34400 kr
Snitt 96% 33500 kr 35200 kr
* Empty columns indicate that the statistical data was insufficient to allow for a statistically significant conclusion.
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession NC programmer has the SSYK code 7223, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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