Plastic repairer

What does a Plast Repairer do? – Tasks and work environment

A Plast Repairer primarily works with repairing, maintaining, and sometimes manufacturing plastic products within the industry. The profession involves identifying damage to plastic parts, performing repairs using various techniques such as welding, gluing, or replacing parts, and ensuring that repairs meet quality standards. Plast Repairers can work across several sectors, including automotive, manufacturing, or recycling. The work environment is often workshop-based and can be noisy, involving handling machinery and chemicals. Safety procedures and protective equipment are a natural part of daily work to minimize risks.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for a Plast Repairer has increased steadily, though at a moderate pace. In 2022, the average salary was 30,900 SEK per month, rising to 32 000 in 2023 and reaching 33 200 in 2024. The total increase amounts to approximately 7.4% over the period, indicating stable but not exceptional salary growth. Factors driving this increase include increased demand for skilled labor and adjustments in collective agreements. Simultaneously, automation and technological development are beginning to impact the job market, which may slow salary increases in the future. Regional differences exist, with larger industries in expanding regions often offering slightly higher salaries than smaller towns.

Plast Repairer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,500 SEK/month (female, regional sector, high school diploma up to 2 years)
• Highest salary: 35,700 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education 3 years or more)
• Hourly wage: 200 SEK (based on 166 working hours/month)
• Gender differences: Men earn 33 900 SEK, women 31 800 SEK (women earn 94% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salaries are generally higher in expanding industrial regions

Education and qualifications

To work as a Plast Repairer, a high school education in industrial technology or similar is usually required, often with a focus on plastics or workshop techniques. Many employers also value practical experience, and additional training in plastic processing or welding can be advantageous. Some companies offer internal trainee programs or internships to provide new employees with necessary skills.

• High school education: Industrial technology programs (3 years)
• Vocational courses: Plastic processing, welding, gluing
• Certifications: Meritorious but not always required
• Internships: Often an important part of training
• Prerequisites: Basic technical understanding and precision

Common benefits and compensations

Plast Repairers are often covered by collective agreements that provide occupational pensions, insurance, and compensation for unsocial hours. Other common benefits include wellness allowances, work clothing, and sometimes opportunities for skill development and further training. In some cases, bonuses or performance-based supplements are offered depending on company policy.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a Plast Repairer is currently relatively low, as there is demand for skilled workers in the plastics industry. At the same time, the profession is affected by technological development and automation, which may reduce the need for manual labor over time. Recruitment challenges include difficulty in finding the right competence, and many leave the profession for other sectors. Challenges include the need for continuous skills development, adaptation to new materials and methods, and working safely in environments with potential health risks. Over five years, demand for Plast Repairers is expected to decline somewhat, making it important to stay updated in the field.

Tips for aspiring Plast Repairers

To succeed as a Plast Repairer, attention to detail and a strong sense of precision are important, as work often requires accuracy in repairs. Technical interest helps in understanding plastic properties and handling specialized tools. Flexibility and problem-solving skills are crucial, as different damages may require different methods and solutions. Being collaborative is also advantageous, as work often takes place in teams with other professionals. Early internships are recommended to gain insight into the profession and build valuable contacts. A willingness to continuously learn new techniques and stay updated with industry developments is essential for long-term success. Safety awareness is also vital, given the handling of chemicals and machinery.

Key facts about Plast Repairer

• Education level: High school, often industrial technology (3 years)
• Work environment: Workshop with machinery and chemicals
• Work form: Full-time, often shift work
• Demand: Great opportunities today, but decreasing in the future
• Special skills: Plastic processing, welding, problem-solving

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, an experienced Plast Repairer can advance to supervisory roles, such as team leader or production manager within the plastics industry. Some choose to further specialize in quality control, production technology, or advanced plastic welding. According to forecasts from the Employment Service, there are currently 1437 job openings in the field, but demand for Plast Repairers is expected to decline over five years due to increased automation and technological progress. However, job opportunities remain strong nationally, especially for those with specialized skills or experience from larger industries. Those seeking further development can also move into related fields such as production, technical maintenance, or training new Plast Repairers.

Frequently asked questions about Plast Repairer

• What does a Plast Repairer earn?
  - A Plast Repairer has an average salary of 33 200 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, education, and employer.
• How do gender differences look within Plast Repairer salaries?
  - Men earn an average of 33 900 SEK, women 31 800 SEK, meaning women earn approximately 94% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a Plast Repairer?
  - High school education in industrial technology or similar is most common, often supplemented with practical training and vocational courses.
• What does the job market look like for Plast Repairers?
  - There are currently great opportunities for employment, but demand is expected to decrease over time due to increased automation.
• What tasks does a Plast Repairer perform?
  - Tasks include repairing, maintaining, and sometimes manufacturing plastic parts, as well as quality control.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries are generally somewhat higher in expanding industrial regions compared to smaller towns.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, insurance, wellness contributions, and work clothing.