Package maker, timber handling

What does a packaging worker in timber handling do? – Tasks and work environment

A packaging worker in timber handling is responsible for sorting, packaging, and managing timber products at sawmills, planing mills, and similar industrial environments. The tasks revolve around ensuring that the timber is handled according to quality standards and delivery specifications, which often involves monitoring automated machines and manually packing or bundling wood products. The work takes place in an industrial environment where both physical strength and precision are important qualities, as heavy lifting and repetitive movements are common. Packaging workers often collaborate with forklift drivers and other operators to streamline flow and minimize waste, while following safety regulations to prevent accidents. The environment can be noisy, and temperatures vary depending on the season and workplace setup.

Wage development over time

Over the past three years, wages for packaging workers in timber handling have shown a clear increase. In 2022, the average salary was 33,600 SEK, which rose to 35 000 SEK in 2023 and reached 36 800 SEK in 2024. This represents a total wage increase of approximately 9.5% over three years, surpassing the general wage growth in several industrial sectors. Factors driving this development include an increased need for skilled workers in the Swedish timber industry, high demand for timber products, and a gradual increase in skills among professionals. Industry investments in automation and improved working conditions may also have contributed to raising the profession's attractiveness and thus the salary level. Wage differences between regions and genders still exist but are gradually decreasing.

Packaging worker in timber handling salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 36 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 35,400 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 37,400 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 221 SEK
• Men (average): 37 000 SEK
• Women (average): 35,400 SEK
• Women’s share of men’s wages: 96%
• Regional differences: Highest wages are found in the regional sector

Education and qualifications

Packaging workers in timber handling are often recruited from high school programs in industrial or wood technology, but internal training and on-the-job learning are also common. Formal education requirements are generally low, but employers seek practical skills, accuracy, and some technical understanding. Work experience from industry or warehousing is advantageous, and some workplaces may require forklift licenses or other safety certificates.

• High school education: Industrial or wood technology programs (3 years)
• Certificates: Forklift licenses and safety training may be required
• Internship: Workplace-based learning or internships provide an advantage
• Prerequisites: Basic Swedish and mathematics skills
• Internal training: Introduction and supervision are often provided upon employment

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for packaging workers in timber handling include shift and overtime allowances, work clothing, wellness contributions, and the possibility of overtime pay. Some workplaces also offer training support, subsidized lunches, or company health services. Benefits vary between employers and regions, but collective agreements often ensure basic conditions.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a packaging worker in timber handling varies by region and economic climate. Although the profession does not require extensive formal education, it can be challenging to find employment in workplaces with high automation, as these often require technical knowledge and experience. Physical strain, monotonous tasks, and noisy environments are other challenges that demand endurance and good occupational health awareness. To stand out in the competition, demonstrating willingness to work shifts and flexibility with tasks is an advantage.

Tips for those who want to become a packaging worker in timber handling

To succeed as a packaging worker in timber handling, it’s good to have a positive attitude towards physical work and to be precise in everything you do. Showing teamwork skills makes daily tasks easier, as the job often involves close contact with other occupational groups. Some technical understanding can be helpful, especially in machine operation and troubleshooting, making you more attractive to employers. Being flexible and willing to learn new tasks opens opportunities for development and broader responsibilities. Punctuality and responsibility are qualities appreciated by employers, especially since production is often time-sensitive. It’s also wise to take initiatives for further training, such as obtaining a forklift license, to increase chances of employment and advancement within the industry.

Key facts about packaging workers in timber handling

• Wage range: 35,400–37,400 SEK/month
• Education level: High school diploma (industrial/wood technology)
• Work environment: Industrial environment with physical work
• Work pattern: Shift work common, collective agreement conditions
• Number of job openings: 1437 within the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, there are opportunities to advance to leadership roles such as supervisor, production planner, or machine operator with increased responsibility. Some choose to further their education in production technology or logistics to broaden their career options. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, no specific assessment is made for the profession due to limited statistical data, but demand for sawmill and planing mill operators remains stable with many job openings. For those who are proactive and eager to develop within the timber industry, there are good chances to find employment and eventually take on more qualified roles.

Frequently asked questions about packaging workers in timber handling

• What does a packaging worker in timber handling earn?
  - The average salary is 36 800 SEK/month, but wages range between 35,400 and 37,400 SEK/month depending on experience, gender, and region.
• What education is required to become a packaging worker?
  - Usually, high school education in industrial or wood technology is required, but many are also trained internally at the workplace.
• Are there wage differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 35,400 SEK and men 37 000 SEK, which means women earn 96% of men's wages.
• What work environments do packaging workers operate in?
  - The work takes place in industrial environments such as sawmills and planing mills, often with shift work and physically demanding tasks.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - There are many job openings in the profession, and demand is considered stable, although no exact forecast is provided.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Accuracy, teamwork ability, responsibility, and physical endurance are especially valued.
• Are there opportunities for further education or advancement?
  - Yes, after a few years, you can pursue further training or advance to leadership roles within the industry.