What does a machine spare parts specialist do – tasks and work environment
A machine spare parts specialist is responsible for identifying, ordering, and delivering the correct spare parts for machines and technical systems within industry or workshops. The work often involves close contact with both internal and external customers, suppliers, and technicians, functioning as a link between inventory, purchasing, and service. Tasks include inventory management, advising on spare part selection, documentation, and sometimes providing basic technical support. The work environment can vary from office settings to workshops or warehouses and requires organizational skills, technical interest, and good communication and collaboration abilities across different professional groups.
Salary development over time
The salary for the machine spare parts specialist profession has experienced steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,500 SEK per month, increasing to 37 900 SEK in 2023, and further to 39 400 SEK in 2024. This increase represents a total salary growth of approximately 8% over the period, slightly above the average salary development for the technology and industrial sectors overall. Factors driving this growth include continued demand for technical skills, digitalization of inventory management, and increased focus on maintenance and efficiency of machinery fleets. The salary increase also reflects a certain shortage of experienced personnel in the field, although the market is now characterized by a balance between supply and demand according to the Swedish Employment Agency’s forecast.
Machine spare parts specialist salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 39 400 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 25,600 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, high school education)
- Highest salary: 41,000 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education)
- Hourly wage: 237 SEK/hour (average, based on 166 hours/month)
- Gender pay gap: Women earn 98% of what men do (men: 39 500 SEK, women: 38 500 SEK)
- Regional differences: Salary variations may occur depending on region and employer, especially between larger industrial areas and smaller towns.
Education and qualifications
To work as a machine spare parts specialist, a high school education with a technical focus is usually required, and many employers prefer candidates with experience from industry or workshops. Post-secondary education, especially in technology, logistics, or mechanical engineering, can be advantageous and increase opportunities for higher salary and more advanced tasks. Practical experience, good IT skills, and understanding of inventory management are highly valued.
- High school: Technical or industrial programs (3 years)
- Post-secondary: YH/KY in technology, logistics, or mechanical engineering (1–2 years)
- Certifications: Courses in inventory management, logistics systems, or mechanical engineering
- Internships: Internships or traineeships in industrial companies provide valuable experience
- Prerequisites: Technical interest and basic IT skills
- Tips for choosing: Combine education with practical training to enhance employability
Many machine spare parts specialists develop deep expertise in certain machine brands or systems over time, making them invaluable resources for both employers and customers. This specialized knowledge can also open doors to consulting roles or training assignments within the industry.
Common benefits and compensations
The profession often offers collective agreement-based benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowances, and insurance. Other common perks include employee discounts, flexible working hours, and opportunities for further training. Some employers also offer bonus programs, extra vacation days, or skill development as part of employment conditions.
Competition and challenges
The market for machine spare parts specialists is currently balanced between supply and demand, with about 481 job openings in the field. However, competition may vary depending on the region and specialization. A major challenge is the increased automation and digitalization in industry, which requires continuous skills development. The technical breadth of the profession and the need for good service skills mean that both technical and social abilities must be maintained and developed. For those lacking experience or specialized knowledge, entering the job market can be more challenging, while experienced specialists with deep product knowledge are often highly sought after.
Tips for aspiring machine spare parts specialists
To succeed as a machine spare parts specialist, it is beneficial to combine a genuine technical interest with a desire to help others. Precision is crucial, as it often involves handling many different orders and details simultaneously. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with technicians and customers, where clarity and service orientation are key traits. Being flexible and open to new technical solutions provides advantages in a rapidly changing industry. It is also valuable to continuously update knowledge about new machines and spare parts, which can be achieved through formal courses and self-study. Taking initiative and showing engagement can open doors to more advanced roles within the company. Finally, patience and resilience are necessary to handle periods of high workload and quick delivery demands.
Key facts about machine spare parts specialists
- Salary range: 25,600–41,000 SEK/month
- Education level: High school (technical/industrial), often supplemented with post-secondary courses
- Work environment: Combined office, warehouse, and workshop
- Demand: 481 job openings in the field
- Gender pay gap: Women earn 98% of men's salaries
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a machine spare parts specialist, there are opportunities to advance to senior roles such as warehouse manager, technical salesperson, purchaser, or product manager. Specialized knowledge of specific machine systems can also lead to consulting or training roles within the industry. According to the Swedish Employment Agency’s forecast, the outlook for maintenance mechanics and machine repairers – including spare parts specialists – is moderate, with an expected unchanged demand over the next five years. The recruitment situation is characterized by balance, but technological development and automation may influence skill requirements in the future. For those willing to develop their skills, a stable job market with good career opportunities awaits.
Frequently asked questions about machine spare parts specialists
- What does a machine spare parts specialist earn?
- The average salary is 39 400 SEK per month, with a range from 25,600 to 41,000 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
- What are the gender differences in the profession?
- Men earn an average of 39 500 SEK, while women earn 38 500 SEK, which means women earn 98% of men's salaries.
- What education is required to become a machine spare parts specialist?
- High school education with a technical focus is most common, but post-secondary courses in technology or logistics are advantageous.
- What are the tasks of a machine spare parts specialist?
- Main tasks include identifying, ordering, and delivering spare parts, as well as providing technical advice to customers and technicians.
- What is the job market like?
- There are 481 job openings in the profession, and employment opportunities are considered moderate with a balanced recruitment situation.
- Are there regional salary differences?
- Yes, salaries can vary depending on region and employer, especially between larger industrial areas and smaller towns.
- How can one advance in the profession?
- With experience, you can take roles such as warehouse manager, purchaser, technical salesperson, or move into consulting and training roles.
