Production processor, chemical engineering

What does a production planner in chemical engineering do? – Tasks and work environment

A production planner in chemical engineering is responsible for planning, developing, and optimizing production processes in chemical operations. Tasks often include designing work instructions, ensuring efficient production flow, and meeting quality standards. The role also involves identifying and addressing bottlenecks, collaborating with production teams and technicians, and participating in improvement projects. The work environment is typically a combination of office and production plant, where safety and precision are central. Close cooperation with engineers and operators is often required to achieve the best possible results.

Salary development over time

Salaries for production planners in chemical engineering have shown a steady upward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 40,200 SEK per month, increasing to 42 500 SEK in 2023 and further to 43 600 SEK in 2024. The total salary increase during this period amounts to approximately 8.5%, which is slightly higher than the average for many technical professions. This development can partly be explained by increased demand for chemical engineering skills and a growing focus on sustainability and efficiency within the industry. Although gender pay gaps persist, the gap has narrowed slightly over time, and women now earn 98 % of men's salaries. Regional variations occur, often depending on labor market needs and the presence of chemical industries.

Production planner in chemical engineering salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 43 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,900 SEK/month (female, public sector, post-secondary education 3 years or more)
• Highest salary: 45,100 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education less than 3 years)
• Hourly wage (average): 262 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 98 % of what men do (men: 44 000 SEK, women: 43,300 SEK)
• Regional differences: Present, especially where chemical industries are concentrated

Education and qualifications

To work as a production planner in chemical engineering, a technical education focusing on chemistry or chemical engineering is usually required, often at university or master's level. Practical experience from production or process industries is highly valuable, as are skills in quality assurance and project management. Many employers also seek specialized skills in areas such as LEAN, automation, or environmental technology.

• Formal education: Bachelor or master's degree in chemistry/chemical engineering (3–5 years)
• Certifications: Examples include LEAN, Six Sigma, or project management
• Internship/Trainee: Meritorious or sometimes mandatory during studies
• Prerequisites: Scientific or technical high school education
• Tips for choosing: Specialization in process or production engineering provides a competitive advantage

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for production planners in chemical engineering include employee pension, wellness contributions, bonus schemes, and flexible working hours. Additional perks may include skills development, subsidized lunch, and corporate health services. Some employers also offer extra vacation days or remote work options to some extent.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for production planners in chemical engineering is characterized by some competition, although demand for qualified personnel remains stable. Challenges in the profession include staying updated on new technologies and regulations, as well as balancing efficiency demands with high quality and safety standards. In some regions, the number of available positions is limited, increasing competition for attractive employers. The technical breadth of the role requires strong analytical skills and problem-solving abilities, and workload can be high at times. At the same time, the role offers significant opportunities for development for those engaged and willing to take responsibility.

Tips for those wanting to become a production planner in chemical engineering

To succeed as a production planner in chemical engineering, it is beneficial to be analytical and have a structured approach, as the role involves solving complex problems and optimizing processes. Attention to detail is important, especially when maintaining safety and quality standards. Communication skills are crucial since the work is often team-based and requires collaboration across functions. Actively seeking internships or trainee programs to build experience and networks within the industry is recommended. Continuing education in areas like LEAN or project management can provide a competitive edge. Curiosity about new technology and the ability to quickly familiarize oneself with new tasks are also valuable. Finally, demonstrating initiative and a willingness to take responsibility for improvement work is advantageous.

Key facts about production planners in chemical engineering

• Educational level: Bachelor or master's degree (3–5 years)
• Work environment: Combination of office and production plant
• Available jobs: 564 within the profession (2024)
• Typical working hours: Full-time, daytime
• Special skills: Process optimization, LEAN, quality assurance

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a production planner in chemical engineering, it is common to advance to roles such as process engineer, production manager, or project leader. Some choose to specialize in areas like automation, environmental technology, or quality, while others move into strategic roles within production development. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, there is insufficient data to provide an exact forecast for future prospects, but the profession maintains a steady number of available jobs, and the development of the technology industry suggests continued demand for qualified production planners. Adaptability and broad technical competence are important assets for long-term development.

Frequently asked questions about production planners in chemical engineering

• What does a production planner in chemical engineering earn?
  - The average salary is 43 600 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and sector.
• What are the gender differences in salary for the profession?
  - Women earn 98 % of men's salaries within the profession.
• What education is required to become a production planner in chemical engineering?
  - Usually, a university or master's degree in chemistry or chemical engineering is required.
• Are there many job openings in the profession?
  - There are 564 available jobs according to the latest statistics.
• What are the most common tasks?
  - Planning production, process optimization, and quality assurance are central tasks.
• What are the future prospects for production planners in chemical engineering?
  - The outlook is uncertain, but the industry shows stable demand for technical expertise.
• What benefits are often offered?
  - Employee pension, wellness contributions, and opportunities for skills development are common benefits.