Melters, glass

What does a glass melter do? – Tasks and work environment

A glass melter in the glass industry is responsible for monitoring and controlling the melting process of glass raw materials in industrial furnaces. The work involves preparing raw materials, checking temperatures, adding necessary substances, and ensuring that melting occurs according to specified standards. The melter often works in a team with other operators and technicians and plays an important role in maintaining product quality and safety. The work environment is characterized by high temperatures, noise, and sometimes shift work, which requires both precision and endurance.

Salary development over time

The salary for a glass melter has shown a clear increase over recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 34,400 SEK per month, which slightly decreased to 33 700 SEK in 2023. However, in 2024, the salary has risen significantly to 37 100 SEK, representing an increase of over 9% compared to the previous year. This positive salary trend can be linked to increased demand for qualified glass melters in the industry and general wage adjustments within process and machine operation roles. Gender differences persist, but in recent years women's wages have increased, although still slightly below men's levels.

Glass Melter Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 37 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 35,400 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 39,000 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 223 SEK
• Women: 35,700 SEK (95 % of men's salary)
• Men: 37 400 SEK
• Regional differences: Limited data, but variations occur depending on industry location.

Education and qualifications

To work as a glass melter, a high school education in industrial technology or a similar field is usually required. Many employers prefer candidates with experience from industrial work, and introductory training or internships can be advantageous. Specialized courses in glass processes or machine handling can provide additional competitive edges.

• High school education: Industrial technology program (3 years)
• Internship/Trainee: Common among larger employers
• Internal training: Often mandatory upon employment
• Experience in process industry: Meritorious but not mandatory
• Specialized courses: Possible via vocational college or employer

Common benefits and compensations

Glass industry melters are often covered by collective agreements and are entitled to additional compensation for awkward hours, shift, and night work. Other common benefits include wellness allowances, work clothing, subsidized lunch, and opportunities for skill development through the workplace.

Competition and challenges

The job market for glass melters is influenced by the size of the industry and geographic concentration. Since the number of employers is limited and production often localized to certain regions, competition for positions can be high. Technological changes and increased automation also demand continuous skills development. Physical work environment and shift work present additional challenges, especially for newcomers. Nonetheless, opportunities for employment exist, particularly for those who are flexible and willing to further their education.

Tips for those wishing to become a glass melter

To succeed as a glass melter, it is beneficial to have strong problem-solving skills and be meticulous, as the work requires constant monitoring and adjustment of processes. Endurance is an important trait, as the work environment can be physically and mentally demanding, especially during shift work. Good teamwork and communication skills are essential, as work is often performed in teams. An interest in technology and willingness to learn new machines and processes increase chances for employment and career development. Flexibility in tasks and adaptability to production changes are valuable. Lastly, safety awareness is fundamental, as handling molten glass and high temperatures requires strict adherence to safety routines.

Key facts about Glass Melters

• Education level: High school diploma, often with an industrial focus
• Work environment: Hot, noisy industrial settings with shift work
• Typical employment: Full-time, often 3-shift
• Demand: Approximately 1,437 available jobs within the occupational group
• Gender distribution: Predominantly men, but female participation is increasing

Career paths and future outlook

After a few years in the profession, a glass melter can advance to supervisory roles, process monitor, or technical specialist within production. There are also opportunities for further education as maintenance technicians or production planners. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, no specific forecast exists for the glass melter occupation, but within the broader group of process and machine operators in glass and ceramics, there is a stable number of available positions and some demand for specialized skills. The industry's future depends on technological development and investments in Swedish industry. Experience in the glass industry is valuable in other process industries as well.

Frequently asked questions about Glass Melters

• What does a glass melter earn?
  - The average salary for a glass melter is 37 100 SEK per month.
• What does the salary gap between men and women look like?
  - Women earn an average of 35,700 SEK, which corresponds to 95 % of men's salary.
• What education is required to become a glass melter?
  - High school education in industrial technology or similar is the most common pathway, often supplemented with internal training.
• Are there many job openings for glass melters?
  - Within the occupational group process and machine operators, there are approximately 1437 available positions.
• What is the hourly wage for a glass melter?
  - The average hourly wage is 223 SEK.
• What are the biggest challenges in the profession?
  - High workload, shift work, and working in environments with high temperatures are the most common challenges.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a glass melter?
  - The highest salary is 39,000 SEK/month, and the lowest is 35,400 SEK/month.