NC lathe

What does an NC-turner do? – Tasks and working environment

An NC-turner works with programming, setting up, and monitoring computer-controlled lathes to manufacture metal components with high precision. Tasks include interpreting drawings, selecting tools and materials, and checking measurements and quality standards during and after machining. The profession also involves ongoing maintenance of machines and troubleshooting when needed. The work environment is often workshop-based and can be noisy, but modern industries increasingly offer ergonomic and safe workplaces thanks to technological development and automation.

Salary development over time

The salary for NC-turners has shown stable and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,000 kronor per month, increasing the following year to 34 000 kronor, representing an increase of just over 3%. Between 2023 and 2024, the trend continued upward to 35 200 kronor, a further increase of approximately 3.5%. This development reflects continued demand for skilled labor in the industry, although some slowdown may be noticed due to increased automation and technological advances. Salary increases have also been influenced by collective agreements and inflation pressures in the sector, while competition for experienced NC-turners helps push wages higher.

NC-turner salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 35 200 kr/month
• Lowest salary: 31,400 kr/month (female, private sector employee, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 36,100 kr/month (male, various sectors, post-secondary education < 3 years)
• Hourly wage: 212 kr (based on 166 working hours/month)
• Gender differences: Men earn an average of 35 400 kr, women 34 100 kr (96% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data on regional salary differences is unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as an NC-turner, a high school education in industrial technology is usually required, preferably with a focus on CNC technology or production technology. Many employers also seek experience from workshop work and previous experience with computer-controlled machines. Practical modules and certifications can be advantageous, and further training in CNC programming increases employment and career development opportunities.

• High school education: Industrial technology program, 3 years
• Certification courses: CNC technology, machine safety, metrology
• Internship: Common during education
• Prerequisites: Technical interest, mathematics, problem-solving skills
• Further education: Vocational university, in-company training

Common benefits and compensations

NC-turners are often covered by collective agreements that provide benefits such as occupational pension, insurance, wellness contributions, and sometimes bonuses linked to production targets. Shift work can provide additional allowances, and overtime pay is common. Many employers also offer skills development and further training in technology and safety.

Competition and challenges

The job market for NC-turners is currently characterized by high demand, but competition is expected to increase with greater automation and technological development. Despite a current shortage of qualified personnel within the occupational group of machine setters and operators, the Swedish Public Employment Service estimates that demand may decrease over five years. Technological advances also demand higher skills and the ability to handle advanced control systems. For those willing to continuously retrain and adapt to new technologies, there are good employment opportunities, especially in regions with strong industrial presence.

Tips for aspiring NC-turners

To succeed as an NC-turner, it is good to combine technical curiosity with accuracy and a sense of responsibility. Choosing an industrial or technical focus during high school facilitates entry into the profession, and practical experience in a workshop environment provides a clear advantage. A talent for problem-solving and analytical skills are important when interpreting drawings and programming machines. Flexibility and good communication skills are also valuable, especially when collaborating with engineers and production teams. Taking the initiative for further education and certification, such as in CNC programming, enhances development opportunities. Finally, patience and the ability to work under pressure are crucial in a production environment where precision and quality are paramount.

Key facts about NC-turners

• Educational level: High school education (industrial technology) is most common
• Work environment: Workshop, often shift work
• Employment type: Permanent employment dominates
• Demand: Large skills shortage, but decreasing need over time
• Special skills: CNC programming and metrology

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, an NC-turner can advance to roles such as production technician, supervisor, technical specialist, or trainer in CNC technology. Some choose to further their education as programmers of advanced control systems or work with machine installation and maintenance. The Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast for machine setters and operators in metalwork shows that job opportunities are large today, but demand may decrease over five years due to technological development and automation. Despite this, many jobs are still available – a total of 1437 in the occupational group at the latest measurement – providing good opportunities for those entering the industry. Flexibility, willingness to learn new skills, and competence in digitalization are increasingly important for the future NC-turner.

Frequently asked questions about NC-turners

• What is the average salary of an NC-turner?
  - The average salary for an NC-turner is 35 200 kronor per month.
• What are the gender differences in NC-turner salaries?
  - Men earn an average of 35 400 kronor, women 34 100 kronor (96% of men's salary).
• What education is required to become an NC-turner?
  - High school education in industrial technology, preferably with a CNC focus, and practical experience.
• Are there many job openings for NC-turners?
  - Yes, there are approximately 1437 available jobs within the occupational group of machine setters and operators, metalwork.
• What are the future prospects for NC-turners?
  - Job opportunities are large today, but demand is expected to decrease over time due to automation.
• What are the most common benefits for NC-turners?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, insurance, wellness contributions, and shift work allowances.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for an NC-turner?
  - Highest salary: 36,100 kr/month (male); lowest salary: 31,400 kr/month (female).