Pallet carpenter, repair

What does a Pallet Repairer, repair do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A pallet repairer focusing on repairs mainly works on repairing, maintaining, and sometimes rebuilding pallets for the industrial, warehouse, and transport sectors. Tasks often include identifying damages, replacing broken planks, nailing, screwing, and ensuring the pallets meet safety standards for continued use. The work environment involves both manual and machine work, often in workshops or large storage facilities. Days can be physically demanding, involving heavy lifting and working with hand tools and machinery, in environments where safety and accuracy are of utmost importance.

Salary development over time

The profession of pallet repairer has shown a stable and positive salary trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 28200 SEK per month, which increased to 30 300 SEK in 2023 and further to 31 400 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to a total increase of about 11 percent over three years. The salary increases can largely be explained by increased demand for sustainable transport solutions and a growing focus on reuse within the logistics industry, which has increased the value of qualified repair work. Meanwhile, salaries within the profession have generally risen in line with inflation and collective bargaining negotiations, although competition for jobs remains high.

Pallet Repairer, repair salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 31 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,100 SEK/month (female, regional sector, high school education ≤2 years)
• Highest salary: 35,800 SEK/month (male, public sector, high school education 3 years)
• Hourly wage (average): 189 SEK/hour
• Women: 30 500 SEK/month (95% of men's salary)
• Men: 31 900 SEK/month

Education and qualifications

To work as a pallet repairer, high school education in industrial technology or wood technology is usually required. Practical experience is highly valued, and many employers seek candidates with workshop experience, machinery skills, and basic carpentry. Formal certifications are rarely mandatory but can be advantageous, especially if the work involves machine operation or working according to specific quality standards.

• High school education: Industrial technology program, wood technology specialization (3 years)
• Practical training: Workplace-based learning during education is recommended
• Certifications: Forklift license, Hot work permits, or similar can be advantageous
• Pre-requisites: Good physical condition and interest in practical work
• Tips: Work samples and references from previous workshop work can strengthen applications

Common benefits and compensations

It is common for pallet repairers to be offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, insurances, and compensation for unsociable hours. Other benefits may include wellness allowances, work clothing, and sometimes opportunities for further training or certification courses within the company.

Competition and challenges

Competition for jobs as a pallet repairer is significant, with an oversupply of labor in the profession. According to the Employment Service, the prospects for employment nationwide are limited, and there is no shortage of candidates. Challenges often involve distinguishing oneself through experience, specialized skills, or a strong work ethic. The work environment can also be physically demanding, especially for those working in larger warehouses or industrial settings where pace is high and safety standards strict. However, there are good opportunities for seasonal work and project-based employment.

Tips for aspiring pallet repairers

To succeed as a pallet repairer, it is beneficial to combine practical skills with accuracy and patience. An interest in working with hands and materials like wood is a clear advantage, as is the ability to quickly identify different types of damage to pallets. Good physical condition and endurance are necessary since the work is often heavy and repetitive. Demonstrating responsibility and a willingness to follow safety routines is highly valued by employers. Taking the initiative for additional training, such as in machine operation or work environment safety, can increase employability. Teamwork skills are important since the work is often done in teams where communication is crucial for safety and efficiency. Finally, an eye for detail can help improve work quality and make a good impression for future career opportunities.

Key facts about Pallet Repairer, repair

• Education level: High school (industrial/wood technology)
• Work environment: Workshop, warehouse, industry
• Demand: Limited opportunities, oversupply of labor
• Typical employment form: Full-time, shift work occurs
• Special skills: Material knowledge and machinery experience

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession as a pallet repairer, there may be opportunities to advance to supervisory roles, such as foreman or team leader at larger workplaces. Some choose to specialize in quality control or training new employees. The forecast from the Employment Service indicates that demand for workers in related fields like packers and factory workers, which include pallet repairers, is expected to remain unchanged over five years, with a national surplus of labor. Despite this, there is always a certain need for skilled and reliable workers, especially in companies committed to sustainability and reuse. Currently, the profession has 1437 job openings, demonstrating that opportunities still exist for those with the right skills and experience.

Common questions about Pallet Repairer, repair

• What does a Pallet Repairer, repair earn?
  - A pallet repairer in repair earns on average 31 400 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development looked for Pallet Repairer, repair?
  - Over three years, the average salary has increased from 28200 SEK to 31 400 SEK, an increase of about 11 percent.
• Are there differences between men and women in the profession?
  - Yes, women earn on average 30 500 SEK, which corresponds to 95% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a Pallet Repairer, repair?
  - High school education in industrial or wood technology is most common, often with practical training.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - According to the Employment Service, the demand for labor is low, and there is a national surplus of workers.
• What occupational health and safety risks are there for Pallet Repairers?
  - The work is physically demanding and can involve heavy lifting and working with machinery and tools.
• What types of employment are most common?
  - Full-time employment is most common, but seasonal and project-based jobs also exist.