- Salary statistics
- Sheet metal worker, heavy plate
Sheet metal worker, heavy plate
35 500 - 36 500 kr / month
Industriell tillverkning
Salary progression Sheet metal worker, heavy plate
What does a sheet metal worker in heavy gauge metal do? – Tasks and work environment
A sheet metal worker in heavy gauge metal primarily deals with manufacturing, assembling, and repairing large sheet metal structures, often within industrial or construction settings. Tasks include handling thicker metal components, welding, bending, and joining materials to create structures such as steel frameworks, bridges, tanks, or industrial buildings. The work is carried out both in workshops and on construction sites, where heavy lifting and working at heights are common. The environment is often noisy and requires precision and a strong safety mindset.
Wage development over time
Over the past three years, wages for heavy gauge sheet metal workers have shown a steady upward trend. In 2022, the average salary was 32,800 SEK per month, increasing to 33 900 SEK in 2023 – a rise of about 3.3%. Between 2023 and 2024, there was an additional increase to 36 500 SEK, corresponding to approximately 7.7% salary growth. This positive trend is linked to increased demand for the profession’s skills and general industry wage adjustments. The market for heavy gauge sheet metal workers is also influenced by major infrastructure projects and investments in industrial construction, helping to keep wages competitive.
Many heavy gauge sheet metal workers have the opportunity to work on unique, large projects where each structure differs from the others – making workdays both challenging and varied. Few professions have the same direct impact on large buildings and industrial facilities. Those who enjoy practical problem-solving often find a creative outlet in this profession.
Heavy gauge sheet metal worker salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 36 500 SEK/month
- Lowest/Highest salary: Data on the lowest and highest salaries varies, but the average salary is 36 500 SEK
- Hourly wage: 219 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
- Gender pay gap: Men earn an average of 36 600 SEK/month; specific data on women’s wages is not available
- Regional differences: Data on regional salary differences is not available for this profession
Education and qualifications
To work as a heavy gauge sheet metal worker, a vocational upper secondary education in sheet metal work or a similar industrial program is usually required. Practical experience is crucial, as the profession demands both technical skills and manual craftsmanship. Some employers may also require certifications in welding or working at heights.
- Vocational upper secondary education: Construction and civil engineering program, specialization in sheet metal work (3 years)
- Certifications: Welding licenses and permits for hot work may be required
- Practical training: Apprenticeship or internship during education is common
- Prerequisites: Good physical condition and technical interest are recommended
- Tips for choosing: Select programs with extensive workshop training and opportunities for internships with established companies
Common benefits and compensations
Heavy gauge sheet metal workers often benefit from collective agreements that provide access to benefits such as occupational pensions, insurance, and compensation for unsociable hours. Workwear, protective equipment, and wellness allowances are common, as well as opportunities for further training and certification courses.
Competition and challenges
The profession demands high levels of physical endurance and technical precision, which can be challenging for many. Competition for jobs varies depending on region and economic conditions, but currently, there is a large number of available positions, indicating strong demand. The work environment can be strenuous, with noise, heavy lifting, and exposure to weather conditions. Continuous updating of skills in new materials and techniques is necessary, especially as industry development accelerates. Effective teamwork and communication are often crucial for success in larger projects.
Tips for aspiring heavy gauge sheet metal workers
To succeed as a heavy gauge sheet metal worker, attention to detail and precision are essential, especially during assembly and welding of large structures. Good physical condition facilitates work, particularly during heavy lifts and long days in demanding environments. Being solution-oriented helps manage unexpected problems on site, and technical interest is an advantage when operating machinery and tools. Collaboration skills are important, as work often occurs in teams with other trades. Lastly, a willingness to learn new methods and stay updated with industry developments will help build a long-term career in the field.
Key facts about heavy gauge sheet metal workers
- Education level: Vocational upper secondary education, often with practical training
- Work environment: Industry, construction sites, and workshops
- Demand: 1,437 available jobs within the profession
- Special skills: Welding, bending, and assembly of heavy gauge sheet metal
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession, opportunities open to move into more specialized roles such as supervisor, assembly leader, or welding manager. Some choose to further their education to become designers or project managers within industrial construction. Forecasts from the Employment Service are uncertain for this specific role, as it is part of a broader occupational group, but the large number of available jobs indicates good short-term employment prospects. Demand is mainly influenced by the economic cycle in construction and industry, as well as investments in new infrastructure. Continuous professional development and obtaining certifications in new techniques further enhance career opportunities.
Frequently asked questions about heavy gauge sheet metal workers
- What does a heavy gauge sheet metal worker earn?
- The average salary is 36 500 SEK per month, with an hourly rate of 219 SEK. - Are there many job openings for heavy gauge sheet metal workers?
- Currently, there are 1437 available positions. - What education is needed to become a heavy gauge sheet metal worker?
- Vocational upper secondary education in sheet metal work or industry, combined with practical training, is common. - What is the work environment like?
- The environment is often physically demanding with noise, heavy lifts, and work at heights. - Are there wage differences between men and women?
- Men earn an average of 36 600 SEK/month; specific data on women’s wages is not available. - Is a certificate required to work as a heavy gauge sheet metal worker?
- Yes, welding certificates and permits for hot work may be required by employers.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 35500 kr | 36500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 35500 kr | 36500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 35500 kr | 36500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 35600 kr | 36600 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 35600 kr | 36600 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 35600 kr | 36600 kr |
About the data
All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.
All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.
Profession Sheet metal worker, heavy plate has the SSYK code 7215, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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