Track welder salary

Introduction to the profession of Rail Welder

Working as a rail welder means playing a crucial role in the railway industry. The profession involves welding and repairing railway tracks to ensure that train traffic can operate safely and efficiently. Rail welders often work with various welding methods and gas cutting to repair or replace damaged or worn parts of railway tracks.

What does the work as a Rail Welder involve?

As a rail welder, you have a hands-on job where you use various techniques to weld and cut materials, mostly metal. The work requires good physical condition and a meticulous attitude, as it involves ensuring that tracks and other railway components are in good condition. Tasks are carried out both outdoors and in workshops, requiring you to be flexible and adaptable to different work environments.

Tasks for Rail Welders

• Inspection and maintenance of railway tracks.
• Welding and gas cutting of railway components.
• Replacement of damaged parts and track repairs.
• Working with different welding methods depending on materials and needs.
• Collaborating with other professional groups within the railway sector.

Salary for Rail Welders

A rail welder's salary can vary depending on several factors such as experience, education, gender, and employer. The average salary for a rail welder is 34 000 kronor per month. However, there are some salary differences between genders; men earn an average of 34 200 kronor, while women earn 31 200 kronor, meaning that women's salary constitutes 91% of men's average salary.

Salary Development and Disparities

There has been a positive salary development for rail welders, where the average salary has increased from 32 600 kronor to 34 000 kronor since the last measurement. The highest salary for a man working as a privately employed executive with post-secondary education shorter than 3 years is 36500 kr. For women in the same profession, the highest salary is 31 200 kr. On the lower end of the salary scale, a woman with a high school education earns 30800 kr., while a man earns 31500 kr.

Hourly Wage for Rail Welders on Hourly Contracts

For those working as hourly rail welders, the average hourly wage is 204 kronor, based on a working time of 166 hours per month. However, the hourly wage may vary depending on the workplace and individual agreements.

Educational Requirements and Qualifications

To work as a rail welder, a relevant education is required, often in welding or metalworking. Many employers also request certificates and licenses in specific welding methods. Education at vocational schools or high schools with a focus on welding are common paths into the profession.

Requirements and Recommendations

• High school education in welding or metalworking.
• Certification in various welding methods, such as MIG, MAG, or TIG.
• Good physical condition and ability to work in different types of environments.
• Meticulousness and safety awareness.

Future Outlook for Rail Welders

According to forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service, the opportunities for work as a rail welder and in similar professions such as welders and gas cutters are significant nationally. The demand for rail welders is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, indicating a stable job market for the profession. However, recruitment difficulties may occur while unemployment in the profession is relatively high, creating a paradoxical situation in the labor market.

Challenges and Opportunities

One of the biggest challenges in the profession is maintaining a high safety standard while performing work efficiently and meticulously. Opportunities for career advancement can be enhanced through further education and specialization in different welding methods or work areas. Benefits offered in the profession may vary, but some employers may provide paid training to obtain the necessary certificates and licenses.