Planer, metal

What does a planer within the metal industry do? – Tasks and work environment

A metal planer primarily works with processing and smoothing metal surfaces using planers and other specialized machines. The tasks include setting up, monitoring, and adjusting machines to ensure that metal components receive the correct shape, measurements, and surface quality according to drawings and specifications. Planers are also responsible for quality control of the work performed, maintenance of machines, and troubleshooting in case of operational issues. The work environment is often industrial, involving workshop settings with noise, heavy lifting, and the need for protective gear to ensure safety at the workplace.

Wage development over time

Salaries for metal planers have shown steady increases over recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,100 SEK per month, rising to 34 200 in 2023 and further to 36 000 in 2024. This development represents a total increase of approximately 8.7% over three years, with the largest percentage increase occurring between 2023 and 2024. The salary increase is mainly attributed to continued high demand for skilled industrial workers and inflation pressures within the industry sector. The shortage of specialized skills and increased requirements for technical knowledge have likely also contributed to salary growth. However, it is worth noting that salary levels can vary depending on region and employer, and data on gender-specific wages is limited within the profession.

Planer, metal salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 36 000 SEK/month
• Lowest/Highest salary: Data unavailable, but variations occur depending on experience and region
• Hourly wage: 216 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Men earn 36 100 SEK, data on women is unavailable
• Regional differences: Exact data missing, but salary levels can vary across the country

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a metal planer usually involves a high school industrial technology program with specialization in production technology or metal processing. Some employers may also require additional certifications or training depending on the technical level of the production. Practical experience and familiarity with machines are highly valued, and many employers offer in-house training or trainee programs for new employees.

• High school education: Industrial technology program, with a focus on production or metal (3 years)
• Certifications: Machine operator and safety certificates may be required
• Practical training: Workplace-based training (APL) during education provides valuable experience
• Prerequisites: Basic mathematics, technology, and good vision
• Tips for choosing: Interest in technology and careful work are important

Common benefits and compensations

For metal industry planers, it is common to be offered benefits such as collective agreement-based occupational pension, wellness allowance, and opportunities for further training. Many employers also offer shift or overtime premiums for work outside regular hours, as well as work clothing and personal protective equipment. Other common compensations include meal subsidies and sometimes bonuses linked to production or quality.

Competition and challenges

The job market for metal planers is closely tied to industry cycles and technological development. Competition for jobs can vary between regions, especially where industry is more or less prominent. A challenge for many is to stay updated on new machines and digital workflows, as technology in metal processing changes rapidly. Physical ability and precision are crucial to meet the high quality standards demanded by employers and customers. Limited data on wages for women makes it difficult to assess gender differences within the profession, which can be a challenge from a gender equality perspective.

Tips for those who want to become a metal planer

To succeed as a metal planer, it is good to combine technical interest with precision and a sense of responsibility. Early internships in the industry and taking the opportunity to learn from experienced colleagues strengthen understanding and confidence. Curiosity about new techniques and machines is an advantage, especially as the profession constantly develops with new technology. Good physical condition and endurance facilitate practical tasks, while resilience helps during intensive production periods. Being communicative and cooperative fosters good relationships at the workplace and assists during quality controls or troubleshooting. Finally, responsibility and safety awareness are essential to prevent accidents and ensure high-quality work.

Key facts about metal planers

• Education level: High school, industrial technology program
• Work environment: Industrial workshop with machines and protective gear
• Work form: Shift work is common, including day and night shifts
• Demand: 1437 job openings within the occupational group of grinders, etc.
• Special skills: Machine handling and quality control

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a metal planer, it is common to advance to more specialized roles, such as senior machine operator, supervisor, or quality manager. There are also opportunities to further educate as a production technician or maintenance technician, opening broader responsibilities and higher salaries. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, no specific assessment is made for the role of metal planer, but within the occupational group of grinders, etc., demand remains, with 1437 job openings registered. The technological development in industry suggests that the demand for skilled planers will remain stable, but the job market may be affected by economic fluctuations and automation.

Frequently asked questions about metal planers

• What does a metal planer earn?
  - The average salary is 36 000 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 216 SEK.
• What education is required to become a metal planer?
  - High school industrial technology program, preferably with a focus on metal processing or production.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Statistics show men earn an average of 36 100 SEK, but data on women is unavailable.
• What is the work environment like for a metal planer?
  - The profession is performed in a workshop environment with machines, noise, and requirements for protective gear.
• What career opportunities are available?
  - Opportunities for roles such as supervisor, quality manager, or production technician after some years of experience.
• What are the future prospects?
  - No specific forecast for the profession, but ongoing demand within the occupational group.
• What personal qualities are important in this profession?
  - Accuracy, responsibility, technical interest, and good physical condition are important qualities.