Roaster, coffee salary

Profession: Coffee Roaster - An Insight into Work and Salary

Working as a coffee roaster in the coffee industry is a unique and specialized role. As part of the category of other food processing machine operators, a roaster is responsible for processing raw coffee beans and transforming them into the fragrant and flavorful product that we love. But what does it really mean to work as a roaster, and what is the salary outlook for this professional group?

What Does a Coffee Roaster Do in the Coffee Industry?

A roaster's main task is to oversee and control the roasting process of coffee beans. This includes adjusting temperatures, monitoring the degree of roasting, and ensuring that each batch achieves the desired flavor profile. It is a job that requires both precision and attention to detail, as small adjustments can make significant differences in the final product. The roaster also needs to have a good understanding of the characteristics of different coffee beans and how they should be treated to enhance their unique flavors and aromas.

Salary for Coffee Roasters

Salary-wise, the position of a coffee roaster in the coffee industry is relatively stable. The average salary is 31 900 SEK per month. Interestingly, there is a slight salary variation between genders, with women earning an average of 32 100 SEK while men earn 31 800 SEK, meaning that women earn 101% of what men do. The hourly wage for a roaster is on average 192 SEK, based on 166 working hours per month.

Salary Development and Disparities

There has been a positive salary development for the profession, with the average salary increasing from 30 300 SEK to 31 900 SEK since the last measurement. The highest salary for a coffee roaster is 33,300 SEK, held by a female private-sector employee with a three-year upper secondary education. On the other end of the spectrum, the lowest salary is 31,200 SEK for a female with a pre-secondary education, while the lowest salary for a male is 31,500 SEK.

Education and Requirements

To become a coffee roaster in the coffee industry, formal education is usually not required, but a high school background in food technology or mechanical engineering can be advantageous. Many employers offer internal training to ensure that employees have the necessary expertise to handle the roasting process correctly.

Future Prospects and Working Conditions

The profession of a coffee roaster has a stable demand, especially with the increasing popularity of specialty coffee and small-scale roasteries. Working conditions may vary depending on the size and capacity of the workplace, but generally, it is an environment that requires precision and constant monitoring of machines and processes.

Advantages and Challenges

One of the major advantages of working as a coffee roaster is the opportunity to develop a deep understanding of coffee and its complexity. It is a profession for those who have a passion for coffee and appreciate the craftsmanship behind each cup. At the same time, it can be challenging to stay updated with new techniques and trends in the industry, requiring a high degree of flexibility and adaptability.

Benefits

Benefits may vary depending on the employer, but some companies offer paid training for employees to deepen their knowledge of the coffee world. Others may provide discounted coffee products or the opportunity to participate in coffee tastings and industry fairs.

Concluding Thoughts

Working as a coffee roaster in the coffee industry is a rewarding profession for those who are passionate about coffee and its craftsmanship. With a stable salary development and the opportunity to constantly learn and grow, this profession offers both security and personal satisfaction. For those interested in breaking into the coffee industry, the role of a roaster is an excellent starting point.