Snow manufacturer

What does a snowmaker do? – Tasks and work environment

A snowmaker is responsible for producing artificial snow for ski slopes, cross-country trails, and other winter venues where snow supply needs to be ensured. The profession involves monitoring, starting, and optimizing snow cannons, often under cold and humid conditions at night, as well as ensuring that the equipment functions safely and efficiently. The work is physically demanding and primarily takes place outdoors, sometimes at high altitudes or in difficult terrain. Snowmakers work closely with piste machine operators and technical staff to create the best possible snow quality and distribution, which requires both technical knowledge and good communication skills.

Salary development over time

Salaries for snowmakers have shown a stable but slightly positive trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 34,700 SEK per month, followed by a slight increase to 34 900 SEK in 2023. The latest statistics from 2024 show a further increase to 35 600 SEK, representing a total salary increase of approximately 2.6% during this period. This trend can be explained by continued demand for the profession, especially as winter seasons become more unpredictable and the need for artificial snow increases. At the same time, technical requirements and work environment responsibilities have led employers to value experience and education higher, which can positively influence salary development. Gender differences have been minimal, and the salary range is relatively narrow compared to many other construction and civil engineering professions.

Snowmaker salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 35 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 33,100 SEK/month (male, private sector, high school education of 3 years or more)
• Highest salary: 37,400 SEK/month (female, regional sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage: 214 SEK/hour (based on 166 working hours/month)
• Gender differences: Women earn 35 200 SEK/month (99% of men's salary, which is 35 600 SEK/month)

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a snowmaker usually involves vocational training in construction and civil engineering, but there are also opportunities to learn the profession through on-the-job training and further education. Formal requirements are rare, but technical understanding and machine handling skills are highly meritorious. Some employers may require specific certificates for machine operation or work environment training. Practical experience from similar work, such as within construction or operations, is often very valuable.

• High school education: Construction and civil engineering program, often with a focus on machine operation
• Machine operator certificate: Often advantageous, especially for larger facilities
• Practical training: On-the-job training or trainee positions are common
• Certificates: Working at heights and work environment training may be required
• Pre-knowledge: Technical interest and some machine handling experience facilitate learning

Common benefits and compensations

Snowmakers are often covered by collective agreements that provide benefits such as night shift premiums, overtime pay, wellness allowances, and sometimes access to lift passes or staff accommodation during the season. The work may also involve special compensation for night and weekend work, as well as insurance related to the work environment.

Competition and challenges

The profession of snowmaker is part of a broader occupational group where competition for positions varies depending on season and region. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, job opportunities within construction machinery operation are generally plentiful, but there is a paradoxical situation where many leave the profession, creating recruitment difficulties. Challenges mainly involve physically demanding work, irregular hours, and the need to quickly resolve technical problems under pressure. Additionally, climate change and varying winters affect the demand for snowmaking, making the job market somewhat uncertain from year to year. However, for those who are flexible and willing to work seasonally, there are good employment opportunities.

Tips for those who want to become a snowmaker

To succeed as a snowmaker, it is good to have a combination of technical interest, flexibility, and perseverance. The first step is to attend high school programs focused on construction or civil engineering and preferably supplement with a machine operator certificate, which increases employability. Practical experience is highly valued, so take every opportunity for internships or seasonal jobs in the industry. Being thorough and able to work independently under tough weather conditions is crucial, as is being solution-oriented when technical issues arise. Good teamwork skills are also necessary, as the work is often performed in teams and under time pressure. Finally, a genuine interest in outdoor life and winter environments is a major advantage in this profession.

Key facts about Snowmakers

• Salary range: 33,100–37,400 SEK/month
• Education level: High school education, often with machine operator certification
• Work environment: Outdoors, often at night and in cold conditions
• Demand: Great opportunities, especially during winter
• Hourly wage: 214 SEK/hour

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a snowmaker can advance to supervisory roles or specialize in larger facilities and technical operations. Some choose to broaden their skill set to include piste machine operation or maintenance of other winter equipment. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, job opportunities in construction machinery operation are generally large, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. However, the profession is affected by seasonal variations and climate trends, so flexibility and willingness to further education are advantageous for long-term job security. The latest job market data shows 379 available jobs, indicating continued high demand.

Frequently asked questions about Snowmakers

• What does a snowmaker earn?
  - The average salary is 35 600 SEK/month, with a range between 33,100 and 37,400 SEK/month.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn 35 200 SEK/month, which is 99% of men's salary of 35 600 SEK/month.
• What education is required to become a snowmaker?
  - A high school education in construction and civil engineering is recommended, preferably supplemented with machine operator certification and practical training.
• What are common work environment factors for snowmakers?
  - Work mainly takes place outdoors, often at night and under cold, humid conditions.
• Are there good job opportunities for snowmakers?
  - Yes, opportunities are plentiful, especially during the winter season and in regions with established ski resorts.
• What is a typical hourly wage for a snowmaker?
  - A common hourly wage is 214 SEK based on 166 working hours per month.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The demand for snowmakers is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.