Salary progression Roller, paper mill

Average salary 42 500 kr
Males 43 000 kr
Females 40 400 kr

What does a roll operator in a paper mill do? – Tasks and work environment

A roll operator in a paper mill monitors, controls, and optimizes the process where large paper rolls are handled and prepared for further processing or delivery. The tasks include inspecting machines, ensuring the quality of the rolls, replacing and maintaining equipment, and troubleshooting operational issues. The work environment is typically industrial and can be noisy, with high demands on accuracy and safety. Work is conducted in shifts, including day and night shifts, and close collaboration with other process operators and technicians is common.

Salary development over time

The salary for a roll operator in a paper mill has shown stable and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 38,400 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 41 000 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 4.7%. The latest data from 2024 shows an average salary of 42 500 SEK, which is a further increase of nearly 2% from the previous year. This trend reflects ongoing demand for the profession and a slight shortage of qualified workers, with wage increases aligned with industry agreements. Market influences include technological advancements at paper mills, which demand higher technical skills and can drive wages upward.

Roll operators in paper mills often have the opportunity to work with the latest automation technology in manufacturing. Many employers invest in further training and technical skill development, making the profession particularly attractive for those who want to combine practical work with technological challenges.

– statsskuld.se

Roll operator, paper mill salary – comprehensive overview

  • Average salary: 42 500 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 37,600 SEK/month (female), 40,700 SEK/month (male)
  • Highest salary: 42,000 SEK/month (female), 42,200 SEK/month (male)
  • Hourly wage: 246 SEK/hour (based on 166 working hours/month)
  • Women earn: 40 400 SEK/month (94% of men's salary)
  • Men earn: 43 000 SEK/month
  • Regional differences: Salary ranges may vary depending on location and sector, with the highest wages in the regional sector.

Education and qualifications

To work as a roll operator in a paper mill, a high school education in industry, technology, or process engineering is typically required. Many employers also value experience from process industries or similar environments, and new hires often receive internal training on-site. Practical understanding of machinery and automated processes is advantageous, and further education in the field can improve career opportunities.

  • High school education: Industry, technology, or process technology program (3 years)
  • Internal training: Introduction and supervision on the job
  • Experience: Internships or previous work in industry recommended
  • Certifications: Safety courses, forklift licenses, and machine handling are advantageous
  • Prerequisites: Good physical health, technical interest, and accuracy

Common benefits and compensations

Roll operators in paper mills are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness contributions, insurance, and shift allowances. Shift work may include additional pay and sometimes bonuses related to production or safety. Some employers also provide training support and opportunities for further development within the company.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as a roll operator in a paper mill varies depending on region and economic conditions. Since the profession requires both technical understanding and practical experience, it can be challenging to quickly find the right expertise, especially in smaller towns where paper mills are major employers. Automation in industry demands higher technical knowledge and adaptability, but also offers development opportunities. Physically demanding tasks and shift work can be strenuous, and safety routines must always be strictly followed to prevent accidents.

Tips for aspiring roll operators in paper mills

To succeed as a roll operator in a paper mill, it’s beneficial to have a technical interest and a strong sense of accuracy, as the work involves monitoring machines and quickly detecting deviations. Being solution-oriented and flexible makes it easier to handle production issues or task variations across shifts. Teamwork skills are important since the work is often performed in teams and requires smooth collaboration with colleagues and technicians. Good physical fitness and endurance are advantages due to the physical nature of the work and shift schedules. For those seeking further development, taking the initiative for additional training or engaging in workplace improvement projects is recommended. Demonstrating responsibility and safety awareness is highly valued by employers and increases chances for advancement.

Key facts about the role of roll operator in a paper mill

  • Salary range: 37,600–42,200 SEK/month
  • Education level: High school, 2–3 years
  • Typical work arrangement: Shift work in an industrial environment
  • Gender salary difference: Women earn 94% of what men do
  • Job openings in the profession: 1,437

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a roll operator in a paper mill, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as team leader, shift supervisor, or specialist in machine maintenance and process control. Some choose to further their education in automation or production management to move into broader responsibilities. According to job forecasts from the Employment Service, there is no precise assessment for the role of roll operator, but the process operator, paper sector reports a large number of vacancies, indicating ongoing demand. Technological development and retirements also influence the need for new employees. Career changes within the industry are feasible, and experience as a roll operator is valuable for other roles in production and quality assurance.

Common questions about the role of roll operator in a paper mill

  • What does a roll operator in a paper mill earn?
    - A roll operator in a paper mill has an average salary of 42 500 SEK per month, with a range between 37,600 and 42,200 SEK.
  • What are the gender differences in salary?
    - Women earn an average of 40 400 SEK per month, which is 94% of men's salary at 43 000 SEK.
  • What education is needed to become a roll operator?
    - A high school education in industry, technology, or process engineering is usually required, along with internal training at the workplace.
  • What is the work environment like for roll operators?
    - The work environment is industrial, often noisy, and involves shift work with high safety and precision demands.
  • Are there many job openings in this profession?
    - Yes, there are 1,437 job openings in the process operator, paper sector according to current statistics.
  • What are the most common benefits?
    - Benefits include occupational pension, wellness contributions, insurance, and shift allowances.
  • What are the future prospects for this profession?
    - The outlook is stable due to technological shifts and retirements, although no precise assessment exists for the role of roll operator.

Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Roller, paper mill is 43900 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Privately employed officials with a post-secondary education, less than 3 years. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 42200 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Roller, paper mill is 39400 kr. This salary belongs to a woman also working in the Multiple sectors. The lowest salary for a man in this profession is 41400 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
18-24 100% 31600 kr 39200 kr
25-34 96% 33700 kr 41400 kr
35-44 99% 35500 kr 43400 kr
45-54 92% 35900 kr 43700 kr
55-64 90% 35300 kr 43100 kr
Snitt 94% 34700 kr 42500 kr
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 Roller, paper mill has the SSYK code 8172, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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