Salary progression Riggers, machine tools

Average salary 36 300 kr
Males 36 500 kr
Females 35 300 kr

What does a rigger in machine tools do? – Tasks and work environment

A rigger in machine tools is responsible for setting up, adjusting, and monitoring machines used in manufacturing and processing metal products. Tasks often include preparing machines for production, changing tools, calibrating equipment, and monitoring quality and precision during the manufacturing process. The role requires accuracy, technical knowledge, and the ability to quickly solve problems that may arise on the production line. The work environment is typically industrial, with much time spent at machines and sometimes in shift work, where safety and work routines are central.

Salary development over time

The salary for a rigger in machine tools has shown positive growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,000 SEK per month, then increased to 35 200 SEK in 2023 and further to 36 300 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 6.7% over three years. The salary increase can partly be explained by the high demand for skilled workers in industrial manufacturing and the shortage of qualified labor, especially in metalwork. Although the salary development has been stable, future salary forecasts are affected by increasing automation in the industry, which may reduce demand for traditional riggers in the long run.

Rigger in machine tools salary – comprehensive overview

  • Average salary: 36 300 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 31,400 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, pre-secondary education)
  • Highest salary: 36,100 SEK/month (male, post-secondary education)
  • Hourly wage (average): 212 SEK/hour
  • Gender differences: Women earn on average 97% of what men do (women: 35 300 SEK, men: 36 500 SEK)
  • Regional differences: Data on regional salary differences is unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a rigger specializing in machine tools, a technical education in industry is usually required, preferably with a focus on mechanical engineering or metal processing. Employers often view practical experience and formal education positively, along with good understanding of safety regulations and machinery. Several pathways lead into the profession, from high school programs to post-secondary courses and internal training.

  • High school education: Industrial technical program (3 years)
  • Post-secondary courses: Vocational university or technical training (1–2 years)
  • Certifications: Courses in machine safety and CNC technology are advantageous
  • Internship: Work-based internships during training are highly recommended
  • Prerequisites: Technical interest and good understanding of drawings and measurement techniques

Many machine tool riggers have the opportunity to work with advanced technology and automation, making the profession both challenging and rewarding for those interested in technology. Technological development has led to more digital work environments, where programming and troubleshooting machines have become a natural part of daily work.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Riggers in machine tools often have access to collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, insurance, wellness allowances, and overtime pay. Some employers also offer further training, staff discounts, and bonus programs linked to production efficiency and quality.

Competition and challenges

The profession of rigger in machine tools is characterized today by high demand and a shortage of trained personnel, providing good employment opportunities. At the same time, rapid technological development and increased automation mean that job tasks are changing, and requirements for technical competence are rising. It can be challenging to stay updated on new machine systems and digital tools. Additionally, competition for the most attractive positions may increase as the labor market evolves, especially when demand for traditional riggers begins to decline in the long term.

Tips for those who want to become a rigger in machine tools

To succeed as a rigger in machine tools, it is good to combine technical interest with precision and problem-solving skills. Early internship experiences provide valuable insight into the work environment, and teamwork skills facilitate collaboration. Being flexible and open to new technical solutions is crucial in a field where machines and processes are constantly evolving. Good communication skills help with troubleshooting and shift handovers, while patience and perseverance are important during periods of high workload. Finally, regular further education is recommended to stay attractive in the job market and to take on more advanced tasks.

Key facts about riggers in machine tools

  • Average salary: 36 300 SEK/month
  • Salary range: 31,400–36,100 SEK/month
  • Education level: High school or post-secondary technical education
  • Demand: Great job opportunities, but decreasing over five years
  • Work environment: Industrial, often shift work

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a rigger in machine tools can advance to roles such as production technician, supervisor, or specialist in automation and machine programming. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, opportunities within machine setters and machine operators in metalworking are currently plentiful, but demand is expected to decline over five years. This decline is mainly due to technological development and increased automation in the industry. Despite this, many job openings remain today, making it an attractive career choice for those interested in industrial manufacturing and mechanical engineering.

Frequently asked questions about riggers in machine tools

  • What does a rigger in machine tools earn?
    - The average salary is 36 300 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, education, and gender.
  • What education is required to become a rigger in machine tools?
    - High school industrial technical programs or post-secondary technical courses are common pathways.
  • What is the job market like for riggers in machine tools?
    - There is high demand today, but in the long term, the need is expected to decrease due to automation.
  • Are there wage differences between men and women?
    - Yes, women earn on average 97% of what men do within the profession.
  • What are the most common job tasks?
    - Setting up, maintaining, and monitoring machine tools, as well as quality control of products.
  • What personal qualities are important for the profession?
    - Technical interest, precision, problem-solving skills, and teamwork are highly valued.

Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Riggers, machine tools is 37300 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Regional sector with a post-secondary education, less than 3 years. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 36200 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Riggers, machine tools is 33600 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Government sector. The lowest salary for a woman in this profession is 34000 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
18-24 100% 31900 kr 34300 kr
25-34 98% 34200 kr 36400 kr
35-44 96% 34400 kr 36400 kr
45-54 96% 35100 kr 36900 kr
55-64 95% 35100 kr 36700 kr
65-68 33500 kr 34800 kr
Snitt 97% 34300 kr 36300 kr
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession Riggers, machine tools has the SSYK code 7223, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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