Raw material processor, canning industry

What does a raw material preparer do in the canned food industry? – Tasks and work environment

A raw material preparer in the canned food industry is responsible for preparing and processing raw materials such as fruits, vegetables, or other foodstuffs before they proceed in the production process. Tasks often include sorting, cleaning, quality control of raw materials, and handling machinery used for processing raw materials. The work environment is characterized by production settings where hygiene and safety are central, often involving shift work and work in cooled or humid environments.

Salary development over time

Raw material preparers in the canned food industry have experienced positive salary growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 28,500 SEK per month, increasing to 29 800 SEK in 2023 and further to 30 800 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 8 percent over the period. The salary development can be explained by increased demand for qualified labor in the food industry and general wage adjustments within the industrial sector. At the same time, the profession's connection to machine operators and the technical requirements have contributed to maintaining steady salary increases.

Raw material preparer in the canned food industry salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 30 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 28,500 SEK/month (male, regional sector, high school education 3 years)
• Highest salary: 33,300 SEK/month (male, regional sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage: 185 SEK/hour (based on 166 working hours/month)
• Gender differences: Women earn on average 32 300 SEK, which is 106% of men's salary of 30 400 SEK
• Regional differences: Salaries vary slightly between regions, with the regional sector showing both the lowest and highest wages

Education and qualifications

The educational path for a raw material preparer in the canned food industry is often high school with a focus on food production or similar technical programs. Practical experience in industrial environments is advantageous, and additional courses in food hygiene and machinery handling can enhance competence.

• High school education: Technical or food science programs, 2–3 years
• Practical training: Workplace-based internships in the food industry are common
• Certifications: Food hygiene and safety training
• Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of machinery handling and quality assurance
• Additional courses: Online courses in food safety and work environment can be beneficial

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for raw material preparers in the canned food industry include collectively negotiated wages with shift allowances, holiday pay, wellness contributions, and occupational pensions. Many employers also offer opportunities for skills development and insurance packages according to industry standards.

Competition and challenges

The profession of raw material preparer in the canned food industry is characterized by a balance between supply and demand in the labor market. Competition is moderate, but automation and technological development mean some tasks change or disappear. A challenge is to stay updated with new machinery and production methods, while the work environment can sometimes be physically demanding and monotonous.

Tips for those who want to become a raw material preparer in the canned food industry

To succeed as a raw material preparer in the canned food industry, it is good to have a careful and systematic work method that ensures quality at every stage of the production chain. Being cooperative facilitates integration into production teams where communication is important to avoid mistakes. A willingness to learn and adapt to new technology is crucial in a constantly evolving industry. It is also valuable to be resilient, as the work environment can sometimes be intense with demands for quick and accurate actions. Finally, good physical endurance helps with the often standing and mobile tasks.

Key facts about raw material preparers in the canned food industry

• Education level: High school, usually 2–3 years
• Salary range: 28,500–33,300 SEK/month
• Work environment: Production environment with hygiene and safety requirements
• Work form: Shift work is common
• Demand: Moderate opportunities, forecast for decline in the long term

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience, a raw material preparer in the canned food industry can advance to more specialized roles such as machine operator with greater responsibility or supervisory positions within production. There are also opportunities to broaden skills to other parts of the food industry. According to the Employment Service's assessment for machine operators in food, the recruitment situation is balanced, but some decline in demand is expected due to automation and technological development. There are approximately 1,437 job openings in this profession, indicating ongoing demand for labor.

Frequently asked questions about raw material preparers in the canned food industry

• What does a raw material preparer earn in the canned food industry?
  - The average salary is approximately 30 800 SEK per month, with variation depending on gender, experience, and region.
• What education is required to become a raw material preparer in the canned food industry?
  - High school education in technology or food science, along with industry internships, is common.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn on average 106% of men's salaries in this profession.
• What is the work environment like for a raw material preparer?
  - A production environment with hygiene and safety requirements, often involving shift work and work in cooled spaces.
• What are the future prospects for this profession?
  - The Employment Service estimates demand will decrease slightly due to automation, but job opportunities remain moderate.
• What benefits are common?
  - Collectively negotiated wages, shift allowances, wellness contributions, and occupational pensions are typical.