Spare parts specialist, truck

What does a truck spare parts specialist do? – Tasks and work environment

A truck spare parts specialist is responsible for identifying, ordering, and managing spare parts for heavy vehicles, primarily trucks. The role involves daily contact with workshop staff and external suppliers to ensure the right parts are available when needed. Tasks include inventory management, order processing, customer advice, and sometimes technical support regarding the use and compatibility of spare parts. The work environment is often located in workshops, warehouses, or dealer stores, where the pace can be high and the demands for accuracy and service are considerable.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for truck spare parts specialists has steadily increased. In 2022, the average salary was 31,900 SEK per month, rising to 33 200 SEK in 2023 and reaching 34 400 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total salary increase of about 8 % over three years, indicating continued demand and appreciation for the profession. The salary increase is linked to a growing need for qualified personnel in the field of vehicle mechanics and repair, as well as a general shift towards more advanced technology in modern trucks, requiring higher competence from spare parts specialists. Despite a relatively stable job market with many vacancies, gender pay gaps persist, which is important to consider in future salary negotiations.

Truck spare parts specialist, salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 34 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,100 SEK/month (female, public sector)
• Highest salary: 36,300 SEK/month (male, regional sector)
• Hourly wage: 207 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 94 % of what men do (32 500 SEK/month vs 34 500 SEK/month)
• Regional differences: The regional sector offers the highest salaries, while the public sector has the lowest levels

Education and qualifications

To work as a truck spare parts specialist, a high school education is usually required, often from the vehicle and transport program focusing on heavy vehicles. Many employers also value previous experience in spare parts or logistics work, as well as knowledge of technical systems and inventory management. Practical experience from workshops or the vehicle industry is often more meritorious and can sometimes weigh more than formal education.

• High school education: Vehicle and transport program, 3 years
• Internship: Usually included during high school
• Certifications: Industry-specific courses in inventory management and vehicle knowledge
• Prerequisites: Interest in technology and vehicles, accuracy, and customer service skills
• Further education: Possible through shorter courses, online or via the employer

Common benefits and compensations

Typical benefits for truck spare parts specialists include wellness allowances, work clothing, employee discounts on spare parts, and sometimes bonuses based on performance or sales targets. Pension schemes and insurances are often included in employment terms, especially with larger employers. Some workplaces also offer training and internal development opportunities to enhance industry skills.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as a truck spare parts specialist is moderate, with a continued high demand for qualified personnel. The job market features paradoxical elements: while recruitment difficulties are reported, there is a relatively high unemployment rate within the profession. Challenges in the role can be linked to rapid technological changes and the need for continuous updating of knowledge about new vehicle systems. Additionally, the role requires good stress management skills and the ability to quickly solve logistical problems. Regional variations exist, with some sectors offering higher wages and better conditions than others.

Tips for aspiring truck spare parts specialists

To succeed as a truck spare parts specialist, it's important to be meticulous and organized, as orderliness in the inventory is crucial for quickly delivering the correct spare parts. Strong customer service and communication skills facilitate contact with both customers and colleagues, especially when providing technical advice. Being solution-oriented and flexible is vital, as unforeseen problems often need quick resolution in a busy workshop environment. An interest in technology and a willingness to learn new things make it easier to keep up with industry developments. Showing initiative and independence is also valuable, along with teamwork and good camaraderie, which employers appreciate. Practical experience from the vehicle or spare parts industry provides an advantage, so applying for part-time jobs or internships during education is a smart move.

Key facts about truck spare parts specialists

• Average salary: 34 400 SEK/month
• Education level: High school, 3 years (vehicle and transport program)
• Work environment: Workshop, warehouse, or store environment with high pace
• Demand: 481 available jobs in the profession (May 2024)
• Future prospects: Stable, with unchanged demand over five years

Career paths and future outlook

After 3–5 years as a truck spare parts specialist, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as warehouse manager, supervisor, or technical salesperson, especially within larger companies and dealership chains. Further education and experience can also open doors to purchasing responsibilities or other specialized roles within logistics and the vehicle industry. The Employment Service's forecasts indicate that demand for truck spare parts specialists and related professions is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with continued good employment opportunities nationwide. The recruitment market is characterized by a shortage of experienced specialists, providing good prospects for those who want to develop and build a career in the field.

Frequently asked questions about truck spare parts specialists

• What does a truck spare parts specialist earn?
  - The average salary is 34 400 SEK per month, but varies between 30,100 SEK and 36,300 SEK depending on experience, sector, and gender.
• What education is required to become a truck spare parts specialist?
  - Most commonly, a high school education in the vehicle and transport program, along with practical experience from the vehicle industry.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn 94 % of what men do in the profession, which corresponds to 32 500 SEK for women and 34 500 SEK for men.
• What is the job market like for truck spare parts specialists?
  - There are many available jobs, and the job market is considered stable with unchanged demand over the next five years.
• What career opportunities are there after a few years in the profession?
  - Opportunities include advancing to warehouse manager, supervisor, technical salesperson, or purchasing manager.
• What work environments are most common for truck spare parts specialists?
  - The work environment is often located in workshops, warehouses, or dealer stores.
• What personal qualities are important in the profession?
  - Attention to detail, customer service skills, technical interest, and the ability to work in a team are especially important.