Image that illustrates Sunk sparks

Sunk sparks

35 200 kr

Machine setters and machine operators, metal work

31 400 - 36 100 kr / month

Women earn 96% of what men do.

Industriell tillverkning

What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Sunk sparks

Average salary 35 200 kr
Males 35 400 kr
Females 34 100 kr

What does a sinker EDM operator do? – Tasks and work environment

Sinker EDM operators work with advanced metalworking where electrical discharge is used to shape and process metal components with high precision. The work is often performed in industrial environments, where accuracy and technical understanding are crucial. Sinker EDM is primarily used in the manufacturing industry for making molds, tools, and parts for industries such as automotive and electronics. The work environment is characterized by machine work, sometimes in shifts, where safety routines and quality control are central elements.

Salary development over time

The salary for a sinker EDM operator has shown a steady increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,000 SEK, which increased to 34 000 SEK in 2023. The latest data for 2024 shows continued positive development to 35 200 SEK, corresponding to an increase of about 6.7% over three years. This salary growth reflects a continued strong demand for skilled workers in metalworking, while technical skills and experience are highly valued. Despite current labor shortages, the long-term demand is expected to decline slightly due to increased automation and technological advancement in the industry.

Sinker EDM operator salary – comprehensive overview

  • Average salary: 35 200 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 31,400 SEK/month (female, private employee, pre-secondary education)
  • Highest salary: 36,100 SEK/month (male, various sectors, post-secondary education less than 3 years)
  • Hourly wage (average): 212 SEK
  • Gender differences: Women earn 34 100 SEK, men 35 400 SEK – women earn 96% of men's salaries
  • Regional differences: Salary variations may occur, but specific data on regions is limited

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a sinker EDM operator typically involves a technical high school education with a focus on industry, workshop, or metalworking. Practical experience is highly valuable, and many employers prefer candidates who have completed internships or trainee programs. Some workplaces may also require specific certifications or mastery of particular machines.

  • High school education: Industrial technical programs, specializing in workshop/metalwork
  • Post-secondary courses: Specialization in CNC or sinker EDM, often 1–2 years
  • Internship/trainee: Work-based training or apprenticeship recommended
  • Certifications: Meritorious for working with advanced machines
  • Prerequisites: Interest in technology, mathematics, and accuracy

Sinker EDM is a specialized method that enables the production of extremely complex and precise details, making the role crucial in manufacturing advanced components for industries such as aerospace and automotive.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensation

Sinker EDM operators are often offered benefits such as shift allowances for unsociable hours, wellness contributions, occupational pension, and opportunities for skills development. In some cases, additional compensation for overtime and work clothing, as well as insurance tied to employment, may also be provided.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for sinker EDM operators is characterized by high demand and a shortage of qualified personnel, favoring those who are well-educated and experienced. At the same time, the profession faces challenges such as increased automation and technological development, which may reduce the need for manual skills in the long term. The ability to quickly adapt to new machines and digital tools is becoming increasingly important. Competition can be fierce for the most attractive positions, especially at larger industrial companies and in regions with a strong industrial presence. New technologies and production methods also demand continuous skills development.

Tips for those who want to become a sinker EDM operator

To succeed as a sinker EDM operator, it is beneficial to have a strong technical understanding and a genuine interest in machine processing. Precision is critical, as even minor deviations can negatively impact the final result, so training your attention to detail is recommended. Being solution-oriented and methodical facilitates troubleshooting and machine setup, which often requires precise adjustments. Good teamwork skills are also important since the work is often performed in teams with other specialists. Flexibility and willingness to learn new technologies also provide advantages in a rapidly evolving industry. Seeking internships early and building a network within the industry can increase chances of employment and career growth.

Key facts about sinker EDM operators

  • Average salary: 35 200 SEK/month
  • Salary range: 31,400–36,100 SEK/month
  • Education level: High school + possible further education
  • Work environment: Industrial workshop environment, often shift work
  • Demand: Large shortage of labor, but long-term decline expected

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a sinker EDM operator can advance to roles such as supervisor, production technician, or specialist in advanced machining. There are also opportunities to further qualify as CNC technician or quality inspector. Forecasts from the Employment Service show good job prospects in the short term, but demand may decline slightly within five years due to automation and new technology. Nonetheless, many job openings remain, providing good opportunities for those committed to the profession and willing to develop their skills.

Common questions about sinker EDM operators

  • What does a sinker EDM operator earn?
    - A sinker EDM operator has an average salary of 35 200 SEK per month, with a range between 31,400 and 36,100 SEK.
  • How do gender differences look in sinker EDM operator salaries?
    - Men earn on average 35 400 SEK, while women earn 34 100 SEK, meaning women earn approximately 96% of men's salaries.
  • What education is required to become a sinker EDM operator?
    - High school education with a focus on industry or workshop is most common, sometimes supplemented with post-secondary courses or certifications.
  • What is the job market like for sinker EDM operators?
    - There is a high demand for sinker EDM operators today, but the need may decrease in the long term due to technological development.
  • What benefits are common for sinker EDM operators?
    - Common benefits include shift allowances, wellness contributions, occupational pension, and skills development opportunities.
  • Are there regional salary differences?
    - Salary variations may occur depending on region and employer, but specific data is limited.
  • What development opportunities exist within the profession?
    - Career paths include supervisor, technician, or specialized roles within the industry.

Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Sunk sparks is 36100 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Multiple sectors with a post-secondary education, less than 3 years. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 34500 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Sunk sparks is 31400 kr. This salary belongs to a woman also working in the Privately employed officials. The lowest salary for a man in this profession is 31800 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
18-24 100% 30700 kr 32600 kr
25-34 98% 33400 kr 35300 kr
35-44 95% 33500 kr 35200 kr
45-54 97% 34300 kr 35900 kr
55-64 94% 34300 kr 35800 kr
65-68 33300 kr 34400 kr
Snitt 96% 33500 kr 35200 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 Sunk sparks has the SSYK code 7223, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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