Production techniques, textiles, wood etc.

What does a production technician in textile and wood do? – Tasks and work environment

A production technician in textile and wood works on developing, optimizing, and quality-assuring manufacturing processes in an industrial environment. Tasks often include optimizing machinery, analyzing production flows, implementing new technical solutions, and ensuring that production meets sustainability, quality, and profitability requirements. Daily work involves collaboration with production teams, engineers, and management. The work environment combines office work and presence on the production floor, where technical challenges and problem-solving are central elements.

Salary development over time

The occupational group of production technicians in textile and wood has experienced steady salary increases over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 42,200 SEK per month, which increased to 43 700 SEK in 2023. The latest figure for 2024 shows an average monthly salary of 45 600 SEK. This represents a total increase of approximately 8% over the three-year period, which is slightly higher than the average for engineering professions in Sweden. The positive salary trend can be linked to increased demand for technical expertise in sustainable production and digitalization, as well as more companies investing in modernizing their manufacturing processes. Salary progression has also been influenced by a certain shortage of qualified technicians in both the textile and wood sectors.

Production technician, textile, wood, etc. salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 45 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,900 SEK/month (woman, private sector)
• Highest salary: 52,700 SEK/month (man, public sector, research education)
• Hourly wage (average): 274 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 43 100 SEK; men earn 46 500 SEK (women 93% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Vary depending on industry concentration and local labor market factors

Education and qualifications

To work as a production technician with a focus on textile and wood, a technical university degree or YH training (2–3 years) is usually required, often supplemented with practical experience in production or manufacturing. Some employers also require specialized courses in materials science, automation, or sustainable production. Internships or trainee programs provide valuable insight into the processes, and technical understanding is crucial for success in the role.

• Educational path: University engineer or YH training (2–3 years) with focus on production, textile, or wood
• Certifications: Courses in Lean, Six Sigma, or similar production methodologies
• Internship: Common and often advantageous
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility and technical background
• Further education: Possible via courses, online, or additional years of study

Common benefits and compensations

The most common benefits for production technicians in the textile and wood sectors include occupational pension, wellness allowance, and subsidized lunch. Many employers also offer flexible working hours, remote work options, and skills development through courses and conferences. Extra vacation days and bonus systems are available at larger employers.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a production technician in textile and wood has increased as more companies digitize their production processes and demand higher technical competence. Challenges often include quickly adapting to new technologies, sustainability requirements, and changing production methods. The shortage of qualified personnel helps keep salary levels high, but continuous further training is necessary to remain attractive on the market. Additional challenges include navigating international supply chains and working on continuous improvements without compromising quality. The ability to collaborate cross-functionally and communicate effectively is crucial for long-term success.

Tips for those who want to become a production technician in textile and wood

To succeed as a production technician in textile and wood, it is good to combine precision with a problem-solving mindset, as the work often involves analyzing and improving complex processes. A genuine interest in technology and materials science makes it easier to quickly understand new production methods. Flexibility is important, as tasks can vary between practical challenges on the factory floor and theoretical analyses in the office. Being communicative and cooperative facilitates teamwork with colleagues from different departments. Engagement in sustainability and quality is advantageous, especially since the industry is constantly evolving and seeking innovative solutions. Keeping up to date with new technologies and production systems can give an edge. Lastly, the ability to take initiative and drive change is appreciated by employers in this sector.

Key facts about Production Technician, textile, wood, etc.

• Education level: University engineer/YH training (2–3 years)
• Work environment: Combination of office and production settings
• Demand: 550 job openings in Sweden, according to current statistics
• Gender distribution: Women earn 93% of men's salary
• Special skills: Materials science, automation, Lean/Six Sigma

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a production technician in textile and wood, there are good opportunities for advancement to roles such as production manager, process developer, or project manager within the industry. Technological development in materials, automation, and sustainable production makes specialist competence increasingly valuable. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate continued high demand, especially for technicians with experience in digitalization and environmentally adapted processes. The profession also offers opportunities to work internationally or to further education in research and development. Related professions include process engineer, quality engineer, and automation engineer.

Frequently asked questions about production technicians in textile, wood, etc.

• What is the salary of a production technician, textile, wood, etc.?
  - The average salary is 45 600 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience and sector.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn an average of 43 100 SEK while men earn 46 500 SEK; women earn 93% of men's salary.
• What education is required?
  - A university engineer degree or YH training (2–3 years) with a focus on production, textile, or wood is recommended.
• Are there good job opportunities?
  - Yes, there are approximately 550 job openings in Sweden.
• How large is the salary variation?
  - The lowest salary is 38,900 SEK (woman, private sector) and the highest is 52,700 SEK (man, public sector, research education).
• What benefits are common?
  - Occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible hours, skills development, and sometimes bonuses or extra vacation.
• What related professions are there?
  - Process engineer, quality engineer, and automation engineer are closely related professions.