Rails, railway

What does a track layer in the railway industry do? – Tasks and work environment

A track layer in the railway industry is responsible for building, maintaining, and repairing railway tracks and related infrastructure. Tasks can include laying new rails and sleepers, as well as adjusting existing tracks to ensure safety and functionality of train traffic. The work is often outdoors and involves physically demanding tasks, sometimes under time pressure and with shift work, especially during emergency repairs. The environment can be noisy and weather-exposed, and collaboration with other construction and transport professionals is common.

Salary development over time

The salary for a railway track layer has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average was 35,600 SEK per month, rising to 38 400 SEK in 2023, and continuing up to 38 700 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 8.7% over the period. The trend indicates stable demand and increased appreciation for the skill level and responsibility of the profession. Factors such as higher safety standards, technological development, and infrastructure investments have likely contributed to this positive salary trend. The pace of salary increase is somewhat higher than the average for the construction industry, indicating a growing need for qualified track layers.

Railway track layer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 38 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 26,800 SEK/month (female, government sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 42,100 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education <3 years)
• Hourly wage: 233 SEK
• Women earn: 91% of men's salary (35 300 SEK/month vs. 38 900 SEK/month)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and labor market demand.

Education and qualifications

To work as a railway track layer, a high school diploma in construction and civil engineering is usually required, preferably with a railway specialization. Many employers value relevant internships, certifications, and experience from similar professions. Specialized training and courses in railway safety and machinery operation are often mandatory, and internal trainee programs or apprenticeships are common.

• High school education: Construction and civil engineering program, railway specialization
• Certifications: Safety training and machinery operator licenses
• Internships: Apprenticeship or practical training in railway projects
• Courses: Continuing education in track technology and work environment
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition, teamwork skills, and technical interest

Common benefits and compensations

Railway track layers are often offered benefits such as shift allowances, per diems for travel, wellness contributions, and work clothing. Insurance, pension contributions, and sometimes access to staff housing or overnight accommodations at other locations are also common. Some employers offer further training and development opportunities as part of the employment package.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as railway track layers is considered moderate, with a balanced supply and demand on the labor market. The work environment can be tough, especially due to physically demanding tasks, changing working hours, and sometimes working under tight deadlines. High safety standards require constant vigilance to prevent accidents. Technological changes mean ongoing training is necessary. At the same time, there are good job opportunities, especially for those who are flexible and willing to work in different locations.

Tips for aspiring railway track layers

To succeed as a railway track layer, it is good to be resilient and comfortable with physical work, as workdays are often long and demanding. Good teamwork skills are essential because the work is done in teams where safety and communication are prioritized. Technical interest and willingness to learn new methods are important, as the industry develops rapidly. Flexibility is an advantage, especially regarding working hours and locations. Attention to detail and responsibility are also key qualities, as small mistakes can have serious safety consequences. Being proactive during internships or apprenticeships can open doors to permanent employment. Finally, continuous training and staying updated on new regulations and techniques in the railway sector are valuable.

Key facts about Railway Track Layer

• Education level: High school education with a focus on construction/civil engineering
• Work environment: Outdoors, often shift and night work
• Demand: Moderate, increasing over five years
• Number of job openings: 379 (May 2024, entire occupational group)
• Special skills: Safety and machinery certifications required

Career paths and future prospects

After several years of experience as a railway track layer, opportunities exist to advance to roles such as supervisor, site manager, or specialized technician in track maintenance and project management. Some choose to further their education in machinery operation or switch to related occupations within construction and infrastructure. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast for construction workers, job opportunities are medium-sized nationally, but demand is expected to increase over the next five years. Large infrastructure investments provide stable future prospects for the profession. There are also good opportunities for international work or involvement in major projects.

Frequently asked questions about Railway Track Layers

• What does a railway track layer earn?
  - The average salary is 38 700 SEK per month, but it varies between 26,800 SEK and 42,100 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What education is required to become a railway track layer?
  - High school education in construction and civil engineering, preferably with a railway specialization, along with safety training and internships.
• What are the future prospects for railway track layers?
  - Demand is expected to increase over the next five years according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn on average 91% of men's salaries within this profession.
• What occupational health and safety risks are associated with railway track laying?
  - The work environment is physically demanding, often outdoors, with high safety requirements, especially when working near train traffic.
• How many jobs are available for railway track layers?
  - There are 379 job openings (May 2024).
• What benefits are common for railway track layers?
  - Benefits include shift allowances, per diems, wellness contributions, and work clothing.