Production engineer, textile, wood etc.

What does a production engineer, textile, wood, etc. do? – Tasks and work environment

Production engineers within textile, wood, and similar industries are responsible for planning, developing, and optimizing manufacturing processes. Their tasks often include production planning, quality assurance, cost calculations, and technical problem-solving to improve efficiency. The work environment can vary from office settings with extensive computer use to on-site visits at factories or workshops, where collaboration with production staff is common. The role requires a combination of technical expertise and understanding of materials and manufacturing methods within the respective industry.

Salary development over time

The salary for production engineers in textile, wood, and similar fields has shown a steady increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 42200 SEK per month, rising to 43 700 SEK in 2023 and further to 45 600 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total salary increase of approximately 8 percent over the period, indicating a positive trend. The increase can be linked to a growing demand for specialized technical skills and an overall improvement in the job market for engineers. Additionally, higher demands for sustainability and efficiency within industry contribute to increasing the value of the role.

Production engineer, textile, wood, etc. salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 45 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,900 SEK/month (female, private sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 52,700 SEK/month (male, public sector, doctoral degree)
• Hourly wage: 274 SEK (based on 166 working hours/month)
• Gender differences: Women earn on average 43 100 SEK, which is 93 % of men's 46 500 SEK
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary slightly depending on geographic area, with higher salaries often in metropolitan regions

Education and qualifications

To become a production engineer in textiles, wood, or similar fields, a degree in engineering with a focus on production technology, materials science, or related areas is usually required. Practical experience and specialized courses in industry-specific materials and processes are advantageous.

• Formal degree: Master of Science in Engineering or Bachelor's degree (3–5 years)
• Certifications/courses: Project management, quality control, and materials knowledge
• Internships/trainee programs: Common during education to gain industry-specific experience
• Prerequisites: Strong knowledge of mathematics and physics from high school
• Self-study/online courses: Supplementary courses in production optimization and CAD
• Tips for choosing: Select programs with a clear focus on production and materials engineering

Common benefits and compensation

Typical benefits for production engineers in textile and wood include occupational pension, wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and opportunities for remote work. Many employers also offer skills development and training support to promote career advancement within the company.

Competition and challenges

The profession is characterized by moderate competition where technical competence and industry-specific experience are highly valued. Challenges include staying updated with new technology and production methods, as well as adapting processes for sustainable production. The ability to work in teams and manage complex projects is essential for success. There is also a challenge in balancing cost-efficiency with quality and environmental considerations.

Tips for aspiring production engineers in textiles and wood

To succeed as a production engineer in textile, wood, and similar industries, it is beneficial to develop strong analytical skills to optimize production processes effectively. Being communicative and able to collaborate well with different professional groups facilitates problem-solving and project management. Good technical understanding combined with meticulousness helps ensure product quality and sustainability. Flexibility and adaptability are also valuable to meet changes in production technology and market demands. Finally, continuously updating your knowledge through education and practical experience is highly recommended.

Key facts about production engineer, textile, wood, etc.

• Educational level: Master of Science in Engineering or Bachelor's degree (3–5 years)
• Salary range: 38,900–52,700 SEK/month
• Work environment: Combination of office work and factory visits
• Demand: 564 job openings within the profession
• Gender distribution: Women earn on average 93 % of men's salaries

Career paths and future outlook

After 3–5 years in the profession, a production engineer can advance to roles such as production manager, quality specialist, or project leader within industry. With experience, there are also opportunities to work on developing new materials and production methods or to move into more strategic positions within the company. The future outlook is considered good, with stable demand for technical skills in production, especially with increasing focus on sustainability and efficiency. According to statistics from the Swedish Public Employment Service, there are currently 564 job openings in the field, indicating continued demand for this profession.

Common questions about production engineer, textile, wood, etc.

• What does a production engineer, textile, wood, etc. earn?
  - The average salary is approximately 45 600 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience and sector.
• What education is required to become a production engineer in textiles and wood?
  - Usually, a bachelor's or master's degree in engineering with a focus on production technology or materials science is required.
• Are there large salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 93 % of men's salaries within the profession.
• What work environments are common for production engineers?
  - The work often takes place both in offices and in production environments such as factories and workshops.
• What are the future prospects for production engineers?
  - Demand remains stable with several hundred job openings, especially within sustainable production and technological development.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Analytical ability, communication skills, and flexibility are key to success.
• Can benefits like wellness allowances and flexible hours be offered?
  - Yes, these are common benefits within the profession.