Ship carpenter

What does a Skeppstimmerman do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Skeppstimmerman is a traditional and specialized craft profession involving building, restoring, and maintaining wooden ships. Tasks range from replacing individual planking and frames to reconstructing entire decks or rudder details according to original methods. Work is often performed at shipyards, boat builders, or directly at docks, requiring precision, craftsmanship, and knowledge of both wood types and marine environments. The work environment can be physically demanding, as many tasks are performed outdoors year-round and sometimes in confined spaces aboard older ships. Collaboration with other trades such as blacksmiths, painters, and mechanics is common, especially during larger restoration projects.

Salary Development Over Time

Over the past three years, salary development for Skeppstimmermän has shown a stable and slightly upward trend. In 2022, the average salary was 34,000 SEK per month, which increased to 34 900 SEK in 2023 and then to the current level of 36 100 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of approximately 6.2% over three years. The salary increase can partly be explained by increased demand for specialized craftsmanship in preserving culturally historic ships and a growing interest in traditional boat craftsmanship. Additionally, the profession's relatively small size means that competition for the most experienced Skeppstimmermän can drive up wages in certain segments and regions. Differences based on gender and education level also influence the salary range.

Skeppstimmerman Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 36 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,800 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 42,100 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 217 SEK
• Women: 33,500 SEK/month (92% of men's salary)
• Men: 36 400 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Limited data, but higher wages occur in metropolitan regions and larger shipyards

Education and Qualifications

The path to becoming a Skeppstimmerman usually involves vocational training in wood technology or boat building, followed by practical experience at a shipyard or in specialized workshops. Formal education is often supplemented with apprenticeships where practical skills and professional networks are developed. A strong interest in marine environments and traditional craftsmanship is essential, and further education in cultural preservation, shipbuilding history, or specialized techniques is common.

• Vocational training: High school boat builder or carpentry program (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: University college within boat building, wood technology, or cultural preservation (1–2 years)
• Practical experience / Apprenticeship: Practical experience at a shipyard or with an established Skeppstimmerman is highly meritorious
• Certifications: Courses in work environment, safety at sea, and traditional craft techniques
• Prerequisites: Craftsmanship interest, good physical condition, and attention to detail

Common Benefits and Compensation

Among Skeppstimmermän, it is common to be offered benefits such as work clothing, wellness allowances, and sometimes tools or further training. Pension schemes and additional insurance are often included, especially with larger employers. When working on projects, travel allowances and per diems may also be provided, particularly if the work site varies between different docks or ports.

Competition and Challenges

The profession of Skeppstimmerman is niche, and competition for the most specialized roles can be significant, especially in areas where historic ships are restored. The number of training places is limited, and access to apprenticeships is often project- and season-dependent. A few large shipyards and museum operations dominate the market, making it difficult for recent graduates to quickly establish themselves. Challenges such as physically demanding work, seasonal variations, and the need for ongoing training are common. Despite this, many practitioners experience great pride and job satisfaction, especially in preserving maritime cultural heritage.

Tips for Aspiring Skeppstimmerman

To succeed as a Skeppstimmerman, it is beneficial to combine technical precision with a genuine love for craftsmanship. A strong interest in wood and traditional building methods facilitates learning, while patience and perseverance are essential during long restoration projects. Curiosity and willingness to learn from older colleagues are crucial for acquiring the more rare techniques. Teamwork skills are important since the work often involves collaboration with other specialists. Finally, initiative and a desire for continuous education are key to staying updated on both modern and historical methods.

Key Facts about Skeppstimmerman

• Salary range: 31,800–42,100 SEK/month
• Education level: Vocational high school or university college
• Work environment: Shipyards, boat builders, museums, and outdoor settings
• Available jobs in the profession: 412 (May 2024)
• Women's share of the salary: 92% of men's average salary

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years in the profession, a Skeppstimmerman can advance to shipyard supervisor, specialize in restoring historic ships, or become a trainer in craft skills. Opportunities also exist to start their own business or work as a consultant for museums and projects within maritime cultural preservation. According to the latest forecast from the Swedish Employment Service, there is no precise assessment for the profession due to limited data, but within the occupational group "sailors and apprentices," 412 job openings are reported, indicating some demand for the skill set. Future prospects are influenced by investments in cultural heritage, boatbuilding projects, and general interest in traditional craftsmanship; however, the job market is small, and competition for the most attractive roles can be tough.

Common Questions about Skeppstimmerman

• What is the average salary of a Skeppstimmerman?
  - The average salary is 36 100 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development been for Skeppstimmermän?
  - It has increased from 34,000 SEK (2022) to 36 100 SEK (2024), a rise of over 6% in three years.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn on average 33,500 SEK, which is 92% of men's average salary.
• What education is required to become a Skeppstimmerman?
  - Most commonly, a vocational education in boat building or wood technology, often followed by an apprenticeship or practical experience.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The number of available jobs is 412, but no specific forecast exists for Skeppstimmerman.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for Skeppstimmerman?
  - The highest salary is 42,100 SEK (female, privately employed, post-secondary education), the lowest is 31,800 SEK (male, privately employed, clerical position).
• What benefits are often offered in the profession?
  - Common benefits include wellness allowances, work clothing, tool compensation, and sometimes further training.