Plastic goods workers salary

Introduction to the profession of Plastic Products Worker

Working as a plastic products worker involves primarily overseeing and operating machinery within the plastic industry. These professionals, also known as machine operators, play a central role in the production of plastic products and components. The work can be both diverse and technically demanding, with opportunities to work in various types of production environments.

Salary for Plastic Products Workers

A plastic products worker has an average salary of 32 000 SEK per month. There is a gender pay gap where men earn an average of 32 400 SEK while women earn 30 800 SEK, meaning that women earn 95% of what men do in the profession. For hourly workers, the average wage is 192 SEK per hour, based on 166 working hours per month.

Salary Development and Variances

Over the past year, the average salary for plastic products workers has increased from 30 900 SEK to 32 000 SEK. The highest reported salary in the profession is 33,300 SEK, belonging to a man working as a privately employed executive with a post-secondary education shorter than three years. For women, the highest salary is 31,600 SEK. The lowest salary for a plastic products worker is 30,300 SEK, held by a woman with a three-year high school education who also works as a privately employed executive. For men, the lowest salary is 31,600 SEK.

Job Duties and Working Conditions

As a plastic products worker, one is responsible for setting up, maintaining, and monitoring machinery that produces plastic products. The work may involve adjusting machines for different production runs and performing quality checks to ensure that the end product meets specifications. Often, shifts are involved, requiring flexibility with working hours. Safety is a crucial aspect of the job, as one deals with machinery that can be hazardous if not handled correctly.

Education and Skills Requirements

To become a plastic products worker, a high school education with a focus on industry or technology is usually required. Some employers may also demand additional training or certifications, depending on the job duties. Having experience working in a production environment or with machinery is advantageous. Technical knowledge and a good understanding of safety regulations are also essential qualities.

Future Prospects and Job Market

According to the Labor Market Administration's forecasts, job opportunities for machine operators in the plastic industry are currently abundant, but a decrease in demand is expected over a five-year period. This is partly due to technological advancements and automation that may reduce the need for manual labor. Nevertheless, there is still a paradoxical situation where recruiting the right skills can be challenging, providing opportunities for those who are well-educated and have the right experience.

Challenges and Competition

The technological advancements in the plastic industry mean that plastic products workers need to constantly update their skills and adapt to new machinery and processes. Competition can be fierce, especially in regions with many trained professionals in the same field. Having a post-secondary education or specialized certificates, however, can provide an advantage in the job market.

Benefits and Working Conditions

Benefits in this profession can vary depending on the employer and type of employment. Some companies offer further training in techniques and machinery handling, which can be a significant advantage for those looking to progress in the field. In some cases, there may also be opportunities for a company-paid mobile phone or other technical aids depending on the workplace's needs.

Summary

Working as a plastic products worker offers both challenges and opportunities. With an average salary of 32 000 SEK and various educational paths, it is a profession that can suit many with an interest in industrial manufacturing. Despite technological advancements and an expected decrease in demand, there are still good opportunities for those willing to develop their skills and adapt to a changing job market.