Oil distiller

What does an oil distiller do? – Tasks and work environment

An oil distiller primarily monitors and controls processes for crude oil distillation within the chemical industry. Tasks include adjusting temperature, pressure, and flow in distillation columns, analyzing samples, and ensuring that final products meet quality standards. The work often involves shift work, and the environment can be noisy and require close attention to safety procedures, as handling chemicals and high temperatures is common. Collaboration with technicians and process technologists is a natural part of daily work, as well as the ability to act quickly during process disruptions.

Salary development over time

The salary for oil distillers has shown steady and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average monthly salary was 37,500 SEK, which increased to 39 900 SEK in 2023 and further to 40 500 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of approximately 8 percent over the period. Salary increases have been influenced by skill requirements, a generally increased need for process supervisors in the chemical industry, and inflation adjustments. Despite the profession being specialized and requiring technical understanding, the salary range is relatively narrow, indicating a homogeneous skill level and similar working conditions within the industry. The demand for qualified oil distillers has helped maintain positive salary development, although gender pay gaps still exist.

Oil distiller salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 40 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 37,500 SEK/month (women), 39,300 SEK/month (men)
• Highest salary: 38,600 SEK/month (women), 42,200 SEK/month (men)
• Hourly wage: 243 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 92% of what men do
• Regional differences: No clear data available

Education and qualifications

To work as an oil distiller, a technical high school education with a focus on chemistry, process technology, or industry is usually required. Many employers prefer candidates with post-secondary education or relevant vocational training. Practical experience from process industries and certifications in safety and chemical handling are advantageous and can be decisive for employment.

• High school: Industrial technology program, focus on process technology (3 years)
• Vocational college: Process technician, chemical industry (2–3 years)
• Certifications: Safety training and chemical handling
• Internships: On-site internships or trainee programs within process industry
• Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of chemistry and mathematics

Common benefits and compensations

Oil distillers are often offered benefits such as shift allowances, extra vacation days, wellness contributions, and opportunities for further training in process safety and technology. The benefits structure may also include pension contributions, work clothing, and subsidized meals, especially at larger industrial sites within the process industry.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as an oil distiller is moderate, but job availability can vary depending on geographic location and economic conditions in the chemical industry. Challenges in the profession include high demands for precision, safety awareness, and technical competence. Digitalization and automation of processes also increase requirements for technical understanding and the ability to handle advanced control systems. Additionally, the work environment is often physically demanding and may involve exposure to noise and chemicals, requiring carefulness and good physical health. A lack of experienced candidates can create opportunities for those willing to further educate and specialize in the field.

Tips for those who want to become an oil distiller

To succeed as an oil distiller, it is good to combine accuracy with a strong safety mindset, as the role requires constant attention to detail and process parameters. Being analytical and having good problem-solving skills makes it easier to handle unexpected situations and quickly identify deviations in production. Flexibility and adaptability are important traits when working in shifts and changing routines. It is also advantageous to be technically interested and eager to learn new control systems, as technology develops rapidly in the industry. Applying for internships early and building a network within the process industry can increase chances of employment. Engagement in work environment issues and further training in safety strengthen both employability and career prospects. Finally, good teamwork skills are essential, as the work often takes place in teams where communication and responsibility are central.

Key facts about Oil Distiller

• Average salary: 40 500 SEK/month
• Education level: High school or vocational training
• Work environment: Shift work, process plant, high safety requirements
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 92% of men's salary
• Job openings in the profession: 481

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, an oil distiller can advance to roles such as process operator, supervisor, or operations technician within the chemical industry. Experience and further education also open opportunities for specialized roles in safety, quality control, or technical support. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, detailed assessments for the profession are lacking, but the general outlook for process supervisors in the chemical industry is that the job market is stable with 481 available jobs in the sector. Demand is influenced by industry development and investments in new technology, making skills in digital control systems and safety work increasingly important for future career opportunities.

Frequently asked questions about Oil Distiller

• What is the average salary of an oil distiller?
  - The average salary for an oil distiller is 40 500 SEK per month.
• Are there differences in salary between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 92% of what men do in the profession.
• What education is required to become an oil distiller?
  - High school or vocational training focused on process technology or chemistry is usually required.
• What is the work environment like for an oil distiller?
  - The work environment is technical, shift-based, and demands high safety and attention to detail.
• What is the highest salary for an oil distiller?
  - The highest salary is 42,200 SEK for men and 38,600 SEK for women, depending on education level and employment type.
• What are the future prospects for oil distillers?
  - The job market is considered stable, but no exact forecast is available for the profession.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Common benefits include shift allowances, wellness contributions, and further training.