Processingenjör (gruva/metallurgi), högskoleingenjör

What does a process engineer in mining and metallurgy do – tasks and work environment

A process engineer in mining and metallurgy mainly works on developing, optimizing, and monitoring processes for extracting and refining metals and minerals. Tasks include designing and improving production flows, quality control, environmental work, and troubleshooting in complex technical systems. Collaboration with other engineers, technicians, and production staff is common to ensure facilities operate efficiently and sustainably. The work environment can vary between laboratories, offices, and heavy industrial settings where safety routines are central. Flexibility and problem-solving skills are important traits in this role.

Salary development over time

The salary for a process engineer in mining and metallurgy has shown a clear upward trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 42,700 SEK per month, increasing to 44 400 SEK in 2023 and finally reaching 47 400 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to a total increase of about 11% over three years, which is a stronger increase than in many other engineering professions. Behind this salary growth are increased demand for technical expertise in the mining and metallurgical industry, as well as a growing focus on sustainability and process efficiency. Employers have been compelled to offer higher wages to attract and retain qualified process engineers, especially as digitalization and automation become increasingly important in the industry.

Process engineer in mining and metallurgy salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 47 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 36,900 SEK/month (female, public sector, at least 3 years post-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 48,500 SEK/month (male, private sector, unspecified education level)
• Hourly wage: 285 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 93% of what men do. Men: 48,500 SEK, women: 44 900 SEK
• Regional differences: Data on regional variations are unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a process engineer in mining and metallurgy, a university engineering degree in process, chemistry, or materials engineering is generally required. The education often includes both theoretical and practical components, such as laboratories and internships. Many employers also value experience from industry, as well as knowledge in digitalization and environmental technology.

• Formal degree: Bachelor’s in process, chemistry, or materials engineering (3 years)
• Certifications: Meritorious in environment, occupational health and safety, and quality assurance
• Internship/traineeship: Usually required to have practical experience or thesis work in industry
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility plus specific requirements in mathematics, physics, and chemistry
• Tips for choosing specialization: Focus on automation, digitalization, and sustainability to increase employability

Common benefits and compensations

Process engineers in mining and metallurgy are often offered competitive benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowances, extra vacation days, and opportunities for skills development. In some cases, bonus programs, company cars, and insurance solutions may also be included depending on the employer and employment type.

Competition and challenges

Despite technological advances and demand for qualified process engineers, competition for the most attractive positions can be significant, especially within research-intensive or larger companies. The industry’s transition towards increased sustainability and digitalization demands continuous skills development. Challenges also include adapting quickly to new technologies and regulations, as well as working across disciplines. Additionally, the work environment can be demanding, with shift work and presence on-site in production facilities. The ability to handle stress and complex problems is therefore crucial.

Tips for those aspiring to become a process engineer in mining and metallurgy

To succeed as a process engineer in the mining and metallurgical industry, it’s beneficial to combine analytical skills with a genuine interest in technology and sustainability. Attention to detail and structured work are important when optimizing processes and ensuring quality, while a problem-solving mindset helps during unforeseen operational disruptions. Curiosity and a willingness to learn are key, as technology evolves rapidly and digitalization becomes more central. Good teamwork skills are essential for working effectively in cross-functional teams, and communication skills facilitate dialogue with colleagues from different disciplines. Finally, being flexible and adaptable to changing work environments and tasks is an advantage.

Key facts about process engineers in mining and metallurgy

• Education level: Bachelor’s degree (3 years)
• Work environment: Varies between offices, laboratories, and industrial production
• demand: 564 job openings in 2024
• Gender distribution: Men generally have higher salaries than women in the profession
• Benefits: Occupational pension, wellness, skills development

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a process engineer in mining and metallurgy, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as technical specialist, project manager, or production manager. With further experience and education, opportunities within research, development, or strategic business development may also open. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicate that data is insufficient for an exact assessment of future prospects for this profession, but the number of available positions suggests stable demand. The industry’s shift towards sustainability and digitalization is expected to continue driving the need for qualified process engineers.

Frequently asked questions about process engineers in mining and metallurgy

• What does a process engineer in mining and metallurgy earn?
  - The average salary is 47 400 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and employer.
• What are the gender differences within the profession?
  - Women earn on average 93% of what men do, with an average salary of 44 900 SEK compared to men's 48 500 SEK.
• What education is required to become a process engineer in mining and metallurgy?
  - A university engineering degree in process, chemistry, or materials engineering is normally required.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - There are 564 job openings in the profession, but no exact forecast from the Swedish Public Employment Service due to limited data.
• What are the most common job tasks?
  - Process optimization, quality control, troubleshooting, and environmental work are central tasks.
• What benefits are usually offered?
  - Occupational pension, wellness grants, skills development, and sometimes bonus programs are often included.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Data on regional variations are unavailable for this profession.