Production technician, chemical engineering

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

A production technician in chemical engineering works on developing, optimizing, and quality-assuring processes in manufacturing environments where chemical products or materials are handled. This may involve optimizing production lines, introducing new technologies, working on quality control, and participating in improvement efforts for increased safety and sustainability. The work environment varies between laboratories, production plants, and offices, with collaboration with engineers, operators, and other specialists being common. The role often includes responsibility for complying with environmental, health and safety regulations, as well as training staff in new processes and methods.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salaries for production technicians in chemical engineering have steadily increased. In 2022, the average salary was 40,200 SEK per month, which increased to 42 500 SEK in 2023. The latest data from 2024 shows continued growth to 43 600 SEK, representing a total salary increase of approximately 8.5% during this period. The positive trend reflects increased demand for technical expertise in chemical engineering driven by technological advancements, a focus on sustainability, and the need for more efficient production processes. Salary differences between genders have been relatively small, and the profession continues to attract both recent graduates and experienced technicians.

Chemical engineering production technician 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 shorter than 3 years)
• Hourly wage: 262 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 98% of men's salary (men 44 000 SEK, women 43,300 SEK)
• Regional differences: Available data shows no clear regional salary differences

Education and qualifications

To work as a production technician in chemical engineering, a post-secondary education in chemistry, chemical engineering, or similar technical fields is usually required. Many employers also value experience from production or process industries and knowledge of quality systems and safety work. Practical experience from working life or internships can be advantageous for employment and often crucial for quick entry into the role.

• Formal degree: Vocational university (2–3 years) or university engineering degree (3 years) in chemistry/chemical engineering
• Certifications: Courses in quality assurance, LEAN, occupational health and safety, or environmental certifications can be beneficial
• Internship/trainee: Internship during studies or industry trainee programs are common
• Prerequisites: Science or technical high school education is recommended
• Tips for choosing: Combine theoretical education with practical experience to increase employability

Common benefits and compensations

Benefits for chemical engineering production technicians often include occupational pension, wellness allowance, subsidized lunch, flexible working hours, and extra vacation days. Private health insurance, skill development, and bonus schemes may also be offered depending on the employer and sector. Compensation for unsocial hours and overtime is common in the industry.

Competition and challenges

The job market for chemical engineering production technicians is characterized by some competition, especially due to increasing technical demands and rapid changes in production environments. Lack of experience or specialized knowledge can be a challenge for recent graduates, while digitalization and automation require higher technical understanding and flexibility. Staying updated on new materials, environmental requirements, and safety standards is crucial for remaining competitive. Collaboration across disciplines and the ability to communicate technical solutions clearly are important success factors.

Tips for those wanting to become a chemical engineering production technician

To succeed as a chemical engineering production technician, it is helpful to be analytical and interested in problem-solving, as the work often involves identifying and addressing bottlenecks in production. Being meticulous and organized aids in quality control and documentation. Good teamwork skills are vital since the work is team-based and cross-functional. Demonstrating initiative by suggesting improvements and staying updated on new technology and industry trends is also valuable. Combining technical skills with clear communication facilitates training colleagues and implementing new routines. Finally, flexibility and adaptability are important, as production environments can change rapidly and require quick decisions.

Key facts about chemical engineering production technicians

• Education level: Post-secondary education (vocational university or university engineering)
• Work environment: Mix of laboratory, production, and office
• Typical work form: Project-based and cross-functional work
• Demand: 564 job openings in the field (May 2024)
• Gender distribution: Small salary differences between men and women

Career paths and future outlooks

After three to five years in the profession, a chemical engineering production technician can advance to roles such as process engineer, production manager, or specialist in quality assurance and environmental technology. Opportunities also exist to move into project management or further education in automation and digitalization. According to the employment service, there is no specific forecast for the profession due to limited data, but technological development and industry needs for efficiency suggest continued demand. The field currently has over 564 job openings, indicating good prospects for those with the right skills and experience.

Frequently asked questions about chemical engineering production technicians

• What does a production technician in chemical engineering earn?
  - The average salary is 43 600 SEK per month, with minor differences between men and women.
• What education is required to become a production technician in chemical engineering?
  - Typically, post-secondary education, such as vocational university or a university engineering degree in chemistry or chemical engineering.
• What is the work environment like for chemical engineering production technicians?
  - The environment is varied, including laboratories, production facilities, and offices.
• Are there many job openings in this profession?
  - Yes, over 564 job openings are reported according to the latest statistics.
• What are the most common job tasks?
  - Developing and optimizing production processes, quality assurance, and improvement work.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The employment service does not provide a specific forecast, but technological progress and efficiency needs continue to drive demand.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Available data shows no clear regional salary differences for the profession.