Planning techniques, textiles, wood etc.

What does a planning technician in textiles and wood do? – Tasks and work environment

A planning technician in textiles and wood works on optimizing and managing production flows in industrial environments. Tasks include planning material flows, scheduling production, allocating resources, and ensuring that quality and delivery targets are met. The role requires close collaboration with production teams, purchasing, and sometimes suppliers and customers. The work environment often combines office work with presence in production facilities, where technical tools and digital systems are frequently used to monitor processes and analyze data.

Salary development over time

The salary for a planning technician in textiles and wood has seen positive development in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 42,200 SEK per month, increasing to 43 700 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary is 45 600 SEK per month. This represents an increase of approximately 8% over the three-year period. This salary growth reflects, among other things, increased demand for technical competence in production and efficiency, as well as higher industry standards for digitalization and planning skills. The most experienced technicians and those with specialist skills have seen particularly clear salary increases.

Planning technician, textiles, wood, etc. salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 45 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,900 SEK/month (female, private sector, upper secondary education)
• Highest salary: 52,700 SEK/month (male, public sector, postgraduate education)
• Hourly wage: 274 SEK
• Gender differences: Men earn 46 500 SEK, women 43 100 SEK (women 93% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data varies, but some salary variation may occur depending on region and employer.

Education and qualifications

To work as a planning technician in textiles and wood, a technical education at upper secondary or post-secondary level is generally required, often with a focus on production technology, industrial economics, or similar. More advanced roles may require university education or specialized courses in logistics, production, or materials technology. Practical experience from industrial production is highly valued, and many employers prefer candidates with experience in digital planning systems.

• Upper secondary education: 3-year technical program, often in industry or production
• Post-secondary studies: YH training or university engineer, 2–3 years
• Certifications: Courses in Lean, logistics, or production planning can be advantageous
• Internship: Internship or trainee position in industrial operations is recommended
• Prerequisites: Basic mathematics, technology, and computer skills

Common benefits and compensations

Planning technicians in textiles and wood are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness contributions, and insurance. Other common compensations include bonus programs linked to production efficiency, paid training, and sometimes flexible hours or remote work options depending on the employer.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a planning technician in textiles and wood is moderate, with a relatively high number of available positions within the profession. At the same time, high demands are placed on technical competence and the ability to quickly adapt to changing production methods and new technology. Digitalization and automation drive changes in the profession, meaning that planning technicians need to continuously update their skills. Challenges may also arise from tight deadlines, complex supply chains, and the need to balance quality with cost efficiency.

Tips for those who want to become a planning technician in textiles and wood

To succeed as a planning technician in textiles and wood, it is beneficial to be analytical and have a structured work approach, which facilitates the optimization of complex production flows. Being communicative is crucial, as the role involves cooperation with many different departments and sometimes external partners. Initiative and curiosity are important qualities, especially when implementing new systems or improving production efficiency. Patience and problem-solving skills help during unforeseen production stops or logistical challenges. It is also advantageous to be technically interested and able to quickly familiarize oneself with digital tools and planning systems. For those who want to develop in the profession, active further education and participation in projects related to digitalization and process efficiency are recommended. Finally, accuracy is important, as small errors in planning can have significant consequences for production.

Key facts about Planning technicians, textiles, wood, etc.

• Education level: Upper secondary or post-secondary technical education
• Work environment: Combination of office and production
• Typical working hours: Full-time, daytime
• Demand: 564 available jobs within the profession (2024)
• Special skills: Production planning and digital systems

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a planning technician in textiles and wood, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as production manager, process developer, or logistics manager. The technological development within the industry means that the demand for skilled planning technicians is expected to remain high, especially for those with experience in digitalization and automation. According to the Employment Service, the job outlook is good, with many available positions and an increasing need for efficient production planning. Further education or specialization in areas such as Lean production, automation systems, or supply chain management can open doors to more qualified and leadership roles.

Frequently asked questions about Planning technicians in textiles and wood

• What does a planning technician in textiles and wood earn?
  - The average salary is 45 600 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, education, and sector.
• Are there significant gender pay gaps?
  - Yes, women earn on average 43 100 SEK, while men earn 46 500 SEK, which is 93% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a planning technician?
  - Technical education at upper secondary or post-secondary level is required, preferably supplemented with courses in production and logistics.
• What is the job market like for planning technicians?
  - The job market is good with 564 available positions according to current statistics.
• What tasks does a planning technician perform?
  - Planning and optimization of production, material flows, resource allocation, and quality assurance.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Occupational pension, wellness contributions, insurance, and sometimes bonuses or training opportunities.
• What are the career opportunities within the profession?
  - Opportunities to advance to production manager, process developer, or logistics manager after a few years of experience.