Production engineer, machine

What does a production engineer, machinery, do? – tasks and work environment

Production engineers specializing in mechanical engineering are responsible for planning, developing, and optimizing manufacturing processes within the industry. Their tasks include analyzing production flows, implementing technical solutions, and ensuring efficiency in the machinery park. The role requires close collaboration with technical teams and production staff to achieve quality goals and cost-effectiveness. The work environment is often a combination of office work and visits to production facilities, demanding flexibility and problem-solving skills.

Salary development over time

The salary for production engineers in mechanical engineering has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 41500 SEK per month, which increased to 43 700 SEK in 2023 and further to 45 300 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to a total salary increase of approximately 9% over the period. A contributing factor to this positive trend is the increased demand for technical expertise in the industry, driven by automation and digitalization, which creates a need for specialized engineers. Additionally, higher education levels and increased competition in the job market influence salary development. It is also clear that the profession requires a combination of technical expertise and practical experience, which is reflected in the increasing complexity of tasks.

Production engineer, machinery salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 45 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 37,000 SEK (female, public sector, 3-year high school education)
• Highest salary: 68,000 SEK (female, municipal sector, research degree)
• Lowest salary for men: 39,900 SEK
• Highest salary for men: 50,500 SEK
• Hourly wage: 272 SEK (based on 166 working hours/month)
• Gender pay gap: Women earn on average 95% of men's salaries
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on geographic location, with higher levels in larger industrial regions

Education and qualifications

The educational path to becoming a production engineer in mechanical engineering typically involves a technical university or college degree focusing on mechanical engineering or production technology. Important qualifications include both theoretical knowledge and practical experience with production processes and mechanical systems.

• Formal degrees: Master of Science in Engineering or Bachelor of Science in Engineering in mechanical engineering, 3–5 years
• Certifications/courses: Project management, Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma can be advantageous
• Internships/traineeships: Internships within the industry are common for gaining experience
• Prerequisites: High school education with a technical focus, often science subjects
• Self-study/online courses: Technical continuing education and specialized courses in CAD, automation, or production optimization
• Tips for choosing: Select programs with strong industry links and practical application

Common benefits and compensations

Production engineers in mechanical engineering are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, and flexible working hours. Some employers may also offer bonuses linked to production efficiency and opportunities for skills development and further education. Compensation for overtime and possibilities for remote work are available at certain companies.

Competition and challenges

The profession as a production engineer in mechanical engineering is characterized by a competitive job market where technical competence and experience are crucial. Challenges include staying updated with rapidly changing technologies and adapting production to new sustainability and efficiency requirements. The industry's demands for innovation and problem-solving place high demands on the role. At the same time, the job market may be limited in smaller regions, which can affect career development opportunities.

Tips for those who want to become a production engineer, machinery

To succeed as a production engineer specializing in mechanical engineering, it is beneficial to develop analytical skills to identify and solve production problems effectively. It is also important to be communicative to collaborate with different departments and explain technical solutions clearly. A structured work approach facilitates managing complex projects and ensures deadlines are met. Being flexible and adaptable is crucial in an industry where technologies and processes are constantly changing. Finally, a curious attitude is valuable for continuously learning new techniques and improving production flows.

Key facts about production engineer, machinery

• Educational level: Master of Science in Engineering or Bachelor of Science in Engineering (3–5 years)
• Salary range: 37,000–68,000 SEK/month
• Work environment: Combination of office work and industrial environment
• Work form: Project-based, cross-department collaboration
• Demand: Stable with 564 job openings in related fields

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years in the profession, a production engineer in mechanical engineering can advance to roles such as project manager, production manager, or specialist in automation and process development. The Employment Service does not provide a specific assessment for the profession due to limited data, but the profession as a whole shows stable demand with many job openings. Future prospects for engineers and technicians in mechanical engineering are considered good, especially in regions with a strong industrial sector and technological development. Continued skills development and adaptation to new technologies are important factors for career opportunities.

Frequently asked questions about production engineer, machinery

• What is the salary of a production engineer, machinery?
  - The average salary is approximately 45 300 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience and sector.
• What education is required to become a production engineer in mechanical engineering?
  - Usually, a university or college degree in mechanical engineering or production technology is required.
• Are there gender pay gaps?
  - Yes, women earn on average 95% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What work environments do production engineers work in?
  - The work environment combines office work with visits to production facilities.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The profession has stable demand with good opportunities for career development within the industry.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Analytical ability, communication skills, and flexibility are important qualities.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries can be higher in larger industrial regions compared to smaller towns.