Sawmill technician

What does a sawmill technician do? – Tasks and work environment

A sawmill technician is responsible for operation, maintenance, and optimization of machinery and equipment at sawmills. Tasks include monitoring production, troubleshooting technical equipment, performing preventive maintenance, and contributing to efficient production of wood products. The work is often carried out in close collaboration with operators and production management to ensure high quality and minimal downtime. The work environment is typically industrial, with elements of noise, dust, and heavy machinery, demanding high safety awareness and technical proficiency.

Salary development over time

Sawmill technicians have experienced stable and positive salary growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 42,200 SEK per month, which increased to 43 700 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has continued to rise to 45 600 SEK, representing an increase of about 8% over three years. This salary increase can largely be explained by increased demand for technical skills in the wood industry and higher qualification requirements as production technology develops. The market for sawmill technicians is also influenced by the industry's need to streamline and digitalize production processes, further driving up salary levels.

Sawmill technician salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 45 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,900 SEK/month (female, private sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 52,700 SEK/month (male, public sector, doctoral degree)
• Hourly wage: 274 SEK
• Women: 43 100 SEK (93% of men's salary)
• Men: 46 500 SEK
• Regional differences: Data varies, but larger sawmill regions tend to offer higher salaries.

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a sawmill technician usually involves completing a technical high school education with an industrial focus, followed by practical experience in the sawmill or wood industry. For more advanced roles, post-secondary education or specialized courses in industrial technology and maintenance may be required. Several employers also offer internal trainee programs and internships to strengthen skills.

• Technical high school: 3 years with an industrial focus
• Post-secondary courses: Examples include automation, maintenance, or process technology
• Certifications: Occupational safety, forklift license, hot work permits may be required
• Internship/Trainee: Common for newly hired employees
• Prerequisites: Good technical understanding and problem-solving skills

Common benefits and compensation

Common benefits for sawmill technicians include collective agreements, occupational pension, wellness contributions, and sometimes bonus programs linked to production efficiency. Several employers also offer work clothing, compensation for unsociable hours, and opportunities for further training or certification within the profession.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a sawmill technician is moderate, but technological development and digitalization increasingly demand higher skill levels. Employers often seek candidates with experience in automated processes and advanced troubleshooting. A challenge is that the work environment can be physically demanding and sometimes involves shift work. The industry is also sensitive to economic fluctuations and raw material prices, which can affect job availability. At the same time, there is steady demand for technicians capable of managing modern production systems, especially in larger sawmill regions.

Tips for those who want to become a sawmill technician

To succeed as a sawmill technician, it is good to combine technical interest with precision and a problem-solving mindset. Being flexible and able to work both independently and in teams facilitates collaboration in a production environment. Good physical endurance is also an advantage, as the work can be physically demanding and sometimes involve shift work. For those who are proactive and detail-oriented, the chances of quickly identifying and solving production problems increase. Continuously furthering your education in new technology and safety routines makes you more attractive on the job market. Social skills and communication abilities are also important, as the work often involves interaction with colleagues and management. Finally, a high safety awareness benefits both yourself and your coworkers in daily work.

Key facts about sawmill technicians

• Salary range: 38,900–52,700 SEK/month
• Average salary: 45 600 SEK/month
• Education level: High school or post-secondary technical education
• Gender salary difference: Women earn 93% of what men do
• Available jobs in the profession: 564 (2024)

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience, a sawmill technician can advance to roles such as maintenance manager, production leader, or specialist in automation and process technology. There are also opportunities to further qualify as an engineer or technical project manager within the wood industry. Forecasts from the Employment Service and industry data indicate continued stable demand for sawmill technicians in the coming years, especially in regions with a strong wood industry. The profession is influenced by ongoing digitalization and automation, making continuous technical training and specialization important for future career opportunities.

Frequently asked questions about sawmill technicians

• What does a sawmill technician earn?
  - A sawmill technician has an average salary of 45 600 SEK per month, but the salary varies between 38,900 and 52,700 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
• How to become a sawmill technician?
  - Most commonly, it involves completing a technical high school education with an industrial focus, supplemented with practical experience and possibly further education in process technology or automation.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn on average 93% of what men do within the profession.
• What occupational health and safety risks are there for sawmill technicians?
  - The work environment can be noisy, dusty, and involve heavy lifting as well as working near machinery, which requires high safety awareness and technical skill.
• What does the future look like for sawmill technicians?
  - Demand is stable with 564 available jobs in the profession, and digitalization is driving the need for technical competence.
• What benefits are common in the profession?
  - Benefits such as occupational pension, wellness contributions, collective agreements, and opportunities for further training are common.
• What education level is required for the highest salary?
  - The highest salaries are found among those with doctoral education and experience in the public sector.