Plastic disc former

What does a plastic sheet former do? – Tasks and working environment

A plastic sheet former works on manufacturing and processing plastic sheets through various forming processes. The profession involves monitoring and controlling machines that shape plastic material into finished products or components, often within industries such as construction, automotive, or packaging. Tasks include preparing materials, setting up machines, supervising the manufacturing process, and conducting quality checks on the finished plastic sheets. The work environment is typically industrial, meaning work in production facilities where noise levels can be high and safety regulations must be followed carefully. Collaboration with colleagues and technicians is common, and the pace can be intense at times to meet production targets.

Salary development over time

The salary for a plastic sheet former has shown a steady upward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,900 SEK per month, which increased to 32 000 SEK in 2023 and reached 33 200 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total salary increase of approximately 7.4% over three years. The development can partly be explained by the increased demand for skilled labor within the plastics industry and the need to attract and retain staff in a sector characterized by recruitment challenges. Meanwhile, technological advancements and automation have begun to impact the profession, which may dampen salary growth in the long term as certain tasks are simplified or replaced by machines. The recent years' salary increases reflect ongoing competition for skilled workers and the need for specialized competence.

Plastic sheet former salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,500 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 35,700 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 200 SEK
• Men's average salary: 33 900 SEK/month
• Women's average salary: 31 800 SEK/month
• Women's salary as percentage of men's: 94%
• Regional differences: The lowest salaries are often found within the regional sector, especially among women with high school education.

Education and qualifications

To work as a plastic sheet former, a high school education in industrial technology or equivalent is usually required, preferably with a focus on plastics or polymer technology. Post-secondary training and courses in plastic processing can be advantageous and improve chances of higher salary and specialized tasks. Practical experience is highly valued, and many employers offer internal training and onboarding programs for new hires.

• High school education: Industrial technology programs, often 3 years
• Post-secondary education: YH (Higher Vocational Education) programs in plastics and polymer technology (1–2 years)
• Certifications: Courses in machine safety and quality control
• Internships: Internships or trainee periods at industrial companies are common
• Prerequisites: Technical interest and precision

Common benefits and compensations

Plastic sheet formers are often offered benefits such as shift differentials for night work, wellness allowances, and sometimes bonuses for meeting production targets. Companies in the industry may also provide extra vacation days, pension contributions, and opportunities for further training and internal skills development. The extent of benefits varies depending on the employer and collective agreement.

Competition and challenges

The profession of a plastic sheet former is characterized by a paradoxical recruitment situation where there are good job opportunities nationally, but at the same time difficulties in recruiting personnel. Many leave the profession, creating a high turnover. In the longer term, demand is expected to decrease due to technological development and automation that streamline production. To meet these challenges, continuous skills development and adaptation to new work methods are necessary. Competition for the most attractive positions may increase as the industry evolves and demands for technical knowledge rise.

Tips for those who want to become a plastic sheet former

To succeed as a plastic sheet former, it is good to have both a practical mindset and technical interest. Precision is crucial when setting up machines and performing quality checks, so developing an eye for detail pays off. Since the work environment is often fast-paced and production-oriented, stress tolerance is a valuable trait, especially when deadlines increase. Flexibility facilitates teamwork and allows quick adaptation to new tasks or technical changes. Showing initiative and willingness to learn new skills is appreciated by employers, especially in an industry where automation and digitalization are rapidly changing tasks. A good team spirit and open communication contribute to a safe and pleasant workplace. Finally, being solution-oriented is an advantage so that production stoppages can be quickly resolved.

Key facts about plastic sheet formers

• Education level: High school or YH vocational training
• Work environment: Industrial production, often shift work
• Demand: Good job opportunities but decreasing demand in the long term
• Special skills: Machine handling and quality control
• Job openings (2024): 1,437 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 team leader, production planner, or machine technician. Those who further specialize in automation or quality assurance can take on more advanced machinery or processes. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, job opportunities are currently good, but demand is expected to decline over the next five years due to technological development and increased automation. Nonetheless, there remains a need for skilled plastic sheet formers, especially those willing to develop their skills and adapt to new technical requirements. Industry changes mean that investing in further education will strengthen one's position in the labor market.

Frequently asked questions about plastic sheet formers

• What is the average salary of a plastic sheet former?
  - The average salary is 33 200 SEK per month.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a plastic sheet former?
  - The highest salary is 35,700 SEK and the lowest is 31,500 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 31 800 SEK while men earn 33 900 SEK, which corresponds to 94% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a plastic sheet former?
  - High school education in industrial technology or equivalent is most common, but further training and certifications are advantageous.
• What are the future prospects for a plastic sheet former?
  - Good job opportunities today, but demand is expected to decrease over the next five years due to automation.
• What are the job responsibilities of a plastic sheet former?
  - Tasks include machine operation, material preparation, quality control, and monitoring the molding process.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, the lowest salaries are often found within the regional sector, especially among women with shorter education.