Production technician, machine

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

A production technician in mechanical engineering works to optimize, develop, and streamline manufacturing processes within the industry. The focus is on improving production flows, reducing waste, and increasing quality in the machinery park. Common tasks include analyzing and solving technical problems, implementing new machines or methods, and collaborating with operators and engineers to ensure smooth operation. The work environment varies between offices, production floors, and sometimes customer visits, requiring flexibility and good teamwork skills. Advanced digital tools and automated systems are often used to ensure high precision and efficiency.

Salary development over time

The salary for a production technician in mechanical engineering has shown a clear upward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 41,500 SEK per month, increasing to 43 700 SEK in 2023. The latest data for 2024 shows an average salary of 45 300 SEK per month, representing an increase of approximately 9% over three years. This salary growth reflects a continued strong demand for technical skills within Swedish industry and increased investment in automation and digitalization. The salary trend can also be explained by employers competing for qualified labor, especially in growth areas where mechanical solutions are becoming increasingly central.

Production technician, machinery salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 45 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 37,000 SEK/month (woman, public sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 68,000 SEK/month (woman, municipal sector, research education)
• Highest salary for men: 50,500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary for men: 39,900 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 272 SEK
• Women’s salary in relation to men: 95 %
• Average salary for men: 45 600 SEK/month
• Average salary for women: 43 200 SEK/month

Education and qualifications

To work as a production technician in mechanical engineering, a technical education at university or vocational college level with a focus on mechanical engineering, production, or industrial economics is usually required. Practical experience from production, as well as knowledge of digital tools and process optimization, are highly meritorious. Certifications and further training in lean production or automation can enhance employment opportunities.

• Vocational college degree: Production technician, 2 years
• University engineering degree: Mechanical engineering, 3 years
• Certification: Lean production, automation, or quality technology
• Internship: Common component during education
• Prerequisites: High school diploma with a technical focus
• Tip: Combine theoretical studies with practical training for better job prospects

Common benefits and compensation

Employees working as production technicians in mechanical engineering are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, extra vacation days, and subsidized lunch. Other common compensations include bonus programs, opportunities for further training, and flexible working hours. In some cases, access to occupational health services and company cars are also available, especially within larger industrial companies.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a production technician in mechanical engineering is considered moderate but varies depending on region and industry development. A major challenge is the rapid technological development, which requires continuous skills development and adaptation to new digital tools. Many employers seek experience in automation, which can make it harder for recent graduates to enter the job market without internships or relevant experience. At the same time, there is a growing need for production technicians as industry digitalizes and production methods modernize. Managing and leading change processes is another challenge, as is ensuring a good work environment when processes are streamlined.

Tips for those who want to become a production technician in mechanical engineering

To succeed as a production technician in mechanical engineering, it is good to be analytical and solution-oriented, which helps in troubleshooting and improvement work. Good teamwork skills facilitate collaboration between different professional groups at the workplace. It is also important to be communicative, as the role often involves presenting technical solutions to management and production staff. Engaging in practical activities during education provides valuable experience and increases chances of employment. An interest in technology and innovation is crucial to keep up with the industry’s rapid development. Demonstrating initiative and taking responsibility for your own skills development is appreciated by employers. Finally, patience and perseverance are important qualities, as change processes in production often take time.

Key facts about Production technician, machinery

• Education level: Vocational college or university engineering (2–3 years)
• Work environment: Combination of office and production
• Average salary: 45 300 SEK/month
• Demand: 564 available jobs in the profession group (May 2024)
• Special skills: Lean production, automation, digitalization

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years in the profession, a production technician in mechanical engineering can advance to roles such as production technical manager, process engineer, project leader, or automation specialist. It is also common for experienced technicians to take responsibility for larger improvement projects or become internal advisors. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, there is no exact assessment for this job title, but it belongs to a profession group where demand for technical competence is considered stable. In May 2024, there were 564 available jobs in the profession group, indicating good opportunities for those with the right education and experience. Future prospects are influenced by continued digitalization of industry and the need for efficient, automated production systems.

Frequently asked questions about Production technician, machinery

• What does a production technician, machinery earn?
  - The average salary is 45 300 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, education, and sector.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 95 % of what men do within the profession.
• What education is required to become a production technician in mechanical engineering?
  - Most commonly, vocational college (2 years) or a university engineering degree (3 years) with a technical focus.
• What is the job market like for production technicians in mechanical engineering?
  - There is strong demand, with 564 available jobs in the profession group in spring 2024.
• What are the most common tasks?
  - Optimizing production flows, process improvement, troubleshooting, and implementing new technical solutions.
• Where are the highest and lowest salaries?
  - The highest salary is 68,000 SEK (woman, municipal sector, research education) and the lowest 37,000 SEK (woman, public sector, high school education).
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Analytical ability, teamwork skills, technical interest, and perseverance are especially important.