NS operator

What does an NS-operator do? – Tasks and Work Environment

An NS-operator mainly works with monitoring, controlling, and maintaining machines within the metal industry. The role includes responsibility for starting, stopping, and adjusting machinery, as well as quickly addressing minor faults to ensure smooth production. Quality control of produced parts and reporting deviations in the production process are often part of the job. The work environment is typically industrial, with shift work being common, and safety routines are a central part of daily routines. NS-operators work both independently and in teams, with collaboration with maintenance staff and production management being part of daily routines.

Salary development over time

NS-operator salaries have 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 trend continues upward with an average salary of 35 200 SEK, a further increase of approximately 3.5% compared to the previous year. This positive salary development reflects high demand and a shortage in the labor market, where skilled NS-operators are difficult to recruit. Although forecasts indicate that demand may decrease in the long term due to automation, recent salary increases have been clear, especially in regions with large industrial production.

NS-operator salary – comprehensive 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 (average): 212 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 96% of what men do (34 100 SEK vs 35 400 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on industry concentration and demand in the region

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming an NS-operator usually involves a technical high school education, often with a focus on industry or production technology. Many employers also require experience from similar work or specific certifications in machine handling. Training sometimes occurs at the workplace through internships or trainee programs, and there are opportunities to supplement with shorter courses in, for example, CNC technology or safety.

• Technical high school education: 3 years, with a focus on industry/production
• Certifications: e.g., in CNC or machine safety
• Workplace internships: Commonly offered
• Prerequisites: Passing grades in mathematics and technology subjects
• Additional courses: Opportunities for further education online or at vocational colleges

Common benefits and compensations

NS-operators are often offered benefits such as shift and overtime allowances, wellness contributions, work clothing, and opportunities for training and skills development. Some workplaces also offer bonus programs and additional insurance coverage. Access to company health services and subsidized meals are also common in the industry.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as an NS-operator has been relatively low recently due to a shortage of trained personnel in the profession. Challenges mainly involve quickly adapting to new technology and increased demands for automation. At the same time, digitalization and technological advances are changing the profession, requiring ongoing skills development. Physical work and shift work also demand endurance and flexibility. In the longer term, demand may decrease somewhat due to increased automation, but the need for qualified operators to handle and monitor the most advanced machines remains.

Tips for those who want to become an NS-operator

To succeed as an NS-operator, it is good to have a genuine interest in technology and machines, as the job requires quickly getting familiar with new work routines and machine models. Precision is an important trait, especially during quality control and troubleshooting, where small mistakes can have significant consequences for production. Flexibility and stress tolerance facilitate work when the pace is high and tasks can change rapidly. Good teamwork skills are crucial since the work is often done in teams, while initiative and independence are appreciated in problem-solving. Being prepared for shift work and managing work environment requirements are also important for thriving and developing within the profession.

Key facts about NS-operator

• Salary range: 31,400–36,100 SEK/month
• Education level: High school education with a technical focus
• Work environment: Industrial, often shift-based
• Demand: Large shortage according to the Employment Service, but forecasted to decrease in 5 years
• Job openings: 1437 positions within the profession (May 2024)

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an NS-operator, opportunities open for further education and advancement within the industry. Common career paths include roles such as team leader, production planner, or maintenance technician. For those who further their education, there are also opportunities to work as CNC programmers or process engineers. The Employment Service's forecasts show good short-term job prospects, but demand may decrease in the long term due to increased automation. Nevertheless, the recruitment situation is expected to remain characterized by a shortage of skilled personnel, especially in advanced machine handling and digital production technology.

Frequently asked questions about NS-operator

• What does an NS-operator earn?
  - An NS-operator has an average salary of 35 200 SEK per month, with a range between 31,400 and 36,100 SEK depending on experience, gender, and education.
• What education is required to become an NS-operator?
  - Typically, a technical high school education, often with a focus on industry or production, along with some practical experience.
• What is the work environment like for an NS-operator?
  - The work environment is industrial and often shift-based, with safety routines and collaboration with other professional groups being central elements.
• Are there career opportunities as an NS-operator?
  - Yes, after a few years of experience, there are opportunities to advance to team leader, production planner, or further training for more specialized roles.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - There is a significant shortage of NS-operators today, but demand is expected to decrease slightly in five years due to automation.
• What is the hourly wage for an NS-operator?
  - The average hourly wage is 212 SEK for a part-time NS-operator.
• Are there wage differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 96% of what men do within the profession.