Slipare, NC/CNC-maskin

What does a grinder within NC/CNC machines do? – Tasks and work environment

A grinder within NC/CNC machines primarily works with processing and grinding metal components using numerically controlled machines. The profession involves monitoring machine operation, adjusting settings, and ensuring that final products meet the correct measurements and quality standards. The work is often performed in an industrial environment, requiring precision, technical understanding, and a methodical approach. The grinder collaborates with other machine operators and technicians, and the workday is characterized by both independent responsibility and teamwork in production.

Salary development over time

The salary for grinders within NC/CNC machines has shown a steady increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,000 SEK, rising to 34 000 SEK in 2023 and further to 35 200 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to an increase of about 6.6% over the period, which can be linked to increased demand and a shortage of qualified labor in the industry. Despite stable wage increases, future salary development will be influenced by automation and technological advances, which may reduce the need for traditional grinders in the long term. At the same time, the need for experienced operators for more advanced tasks remains, helping to keep wages competitive.

Salary overview for NC/CNC machine grinders

• Average salary: 35 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,400 SEK/month (female, private employee, less than 9 years of education)
• Highest salary: 36,100 SEK/month (male, various sectors, less than 3 years of post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 212 SEK/hour
• Gender salary differences: Men 35 400 SEK, women 34 100 SEK (women earn 96% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on location and employer, but detailed figures are unavailable.

Education and qualifications

To work as a grinder within NC/CNC machines, a high school education in industrial technology is usually required, supplemented with workplace-based learning. Many employers prefer candidates with experience in CNC technology and basic knowledge of reading drawings and measurement techniques. Further training in CNC programming or certified courses can be advantageous and improve chances of employment and higher wages.

• High school education: Industrial technology program, 3 years
• Certifications: CNC technology, welding, and safety courses
• Internship: Workplace-based learning (APL) during education
• Prerequisites: Basic technical understanding and mathematical skills
• Further training: Courses in CNC programming and drawing reading

Common benefits and compensations

Grinders within NC/CNC machines are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pensions, insurance, and wellness allowances. Shift and overtime pay are common, as well as opportunities for training and professional development at the workplace. Other benefits include work clothing, subsidized lunches, and sometimes bonuses based on production targets.

Competition and challenges

The profession of grinder within NC/CNC machines is currently characterized by high demand and a shortage of qualified workers, but in the longer term, competition is expected to increase as automation and technological development change industry needs. Many employers seek broad technical competence and the ability to quickly adapt to new machines and work methods. Those without relevant education or experience may find it challenging to enter the profession, especially as simple tasks are automated. At the same time, technological progress offers opportunities for those willing to further their education in new technologies and digitalization.

Tips for aspiring grinders within NC/CNC machines

To succeed as a grinder within NC/CNC machines, attention to detail and precision are important, facilitating quality control and minimizing errors in production. A technical interest makes it easier to quickly learn new machines and methods, while problem-solving skills aid in troubleshooting and optimizing machine settings. Being persistent and able to work under pressure is an advantage when production speed is high or tasks require concentration over longer periods. Good teamwork skills facilitate communication with colleagues and contribute to an efficient workflow. It is also important to be open to further training and to continuously stay updated on new technology and work routines, as the industry is constantly evolving.

Key facts about Grinder, NC/CNC machine

• Education level: High school education in industrial technology
• Work environment: Industrial workshop environment with shift work
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment, but decreasing long-term
• Special skills: CNC technology, drawing reading, measurement techniques
• Job openings: 1,437 advertised positions within the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a grinder within NC/CNC machines, opportunities open to advance to roles such as production technician, supervisor, or quality manager. Many choose to further their education in CNC programming or process technology to broaden their skills. According to the Employment Service forecast, demand for machine setters and operators in metalworking remains high in the short term but is expected to decline over five years due to increased automation. Nevertheless, good job prospects exist for those who are flexible and willing to continue their education in new technologies and digitalization. Career opportunities also exist in technical sales, maintenance, or as trainers within the industry.

Frequently asked questions about Grinder, NC/CNC machine

• What is the average salary of a Grinder, NC/CNC machine?
  - The average salary is 35 200 SEK per month.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for the profession?
  - The highest salary is 36,100 SEK, and the lowest is 31,400 SEK per month.
• What do gender salary differences look like?
  - Men earn on average 35 400 SEK, women 34 100 SEK, which means women earn 96% of men's salary.
• What education is required to become a grinder within NC/CNC machines?
  - High school education in industrial technology and preferably certification in CNC technology are recommended.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Job opportunities are large today, but demand is expected to decrease over the next five years according to the Employment Service.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Salaries may vary depending on location and employer, but detailed figures are unavailable.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Collective agreements, occupational pension, wellness allowance, work clothing, and sometimes bonuses are common.