Spray painter, machine

What does a spray painter – machine do? Tasks and work environment

A spray painter with a machine primarily works within industrial manufacturing and is responsible for applying paint, varnish, or other protective coatings on metal, wood, or plastic products using automated or semi-automatic spray painting machines. Tasks include surface preparation, selecting the right type of paint, and adjusting machines to ensure an even and durable surface treatment. The work may also include quality control, maintenance of equipment, and documentation of completed work. The work environment is often production-oriented, involving noise, ventilation systems, and requirements for protective gear. Precision, patience, and the ability to work under time pressure are central qualities in this role.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salary development for spray painters, machine has shown some variation. In 2022, the average salary was 32,600 SEK per month, followed by a slight decrease to 31 800 SEK in 2023. The latest increase to 33 400 SEK in 2024 represents a salary rise of approximately 5% from the previous year. This change is likely linked to increased demand within the industry and inflation adjustments in the labor market. The market for this type of expertise is also influenced by technological development and quality requirements, which can increase the value of experience and specialization. Women in the profession have experienced slightly lower salary growth during this period, reflected in the average gender gap.

Spray painter, machine salary – full overview

• Average salary: 33 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,700 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 35,600 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 201 SEK/hour
• Women: 31,700 SEK/month (94% of men's salary)
• Men: 33 700 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Some variation depending on industry location

Education and qualifications

To work as a spray painter with a machine, a high school education in industry, vehicle technology, or similar technical fields is generally required. Practical experience from an industrial environment and handling painting equipment is often advantageous, and many employers offer internal training or internships. There are also opportunities to broaden skills through targeted courses and certifications in surface treatment and occupational safety.

• High school education: Industrial technical program, vehicle technical specialization (3 years)
• Certifications: Courses in occupational safety, safe handling of chemicals, and painting methods
• Internship: Workplace-based learning or trainee programs
• Prerequisites: Basic technical understanding and good physics
• Tips for choosing: Select education focused on industrial production and machine handling

Common benefits and compensations

Spray painters with a machine often have access to collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, health insurance, and wellness allowances. Many workplaces also provide work clothes, protective equipment, and sometimes subsidized meals. Shift and overtime pay are common for work during inconvenient hours, and some employers offer further training or certification opportunities.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for spray painters, machine is characterized by stable demand due to industry needs for qualified surface treatment personnel. However, competition may be higher in regions where industry is concentrated and where there is greater access to trained workers. Challenges include exposure to chemicals, the need for precision, and adherence to strict safety routines. Physical strain and monotonous tasks can occur, requiring good health and endurance. Automation and technological development also mean that the role is evolving, making continuous skills development important to remain attractive in the job market.

Tips for those who want to become spray painters – machine

To succeed as a spray painter, machine, it is good to develop a precise and methodical working style, as accuracy is crucial for the result. Good physical condition and endurance facilitate work, especially in production environments where heavy lifting and repetitive tasks occur. A person with technical interest who is willing to learn new machines and software has an advantage, especially as automation increases. The ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with colleagues is also important, as workflow often occurs in teams. Engagement in work environment issues and safety is essential, as handling paints and chemicals requires accuracy. Flexibility and a willingness to take initiative can also open opportunities for further development within the profession.

Key facts about spray painter, machine

• Salary range: 31,700–35,600 SEK/month
• Average salary: 33 400 SEK/month
• Education level: High school education, industrial technical specialization
• Work environment: Industrial, often production-based with requirements for protective gear
• Number of job openings in the profession: 1437

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a spray painter, machine, there are opportunities to advance to supervisory roles, such as team leader or production planner. Specialization in advanced coating methods or transition to quality control and technical maintenance are also common career paths. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, it is difficult to give an exact prognosis for the profession due to limited statistical data, but the demand for qualified personnel across the profession remains good, reflected in the large number of available positions. Digitalization and automation are changing the role, but the need for experience and technical knowledge persists.

Common questions about spray painter, machine

• What does a spray painter, machine earn?
  - A spray painter, machine has an average salary of 33 400 SEK/month.
• How does the salary difference between men and women look?
  - Men earn on average 33 700 SEK/month and women 31,700 SEK/month, which means women earn 94% of men's salary.
• What education is required?
  - High school education in industry or vehicle technology is recommended, often with supplementary practical training.
• Are there many job openings?
  - Yes, there are 1437 available jobs within the profession of painter and industrial painter.
• What is the highest salary for a spray painter, machine?
  - The highest salary is 35,600 SEK/month and belongs to a male private sector employee.
• What occupational hazards exist?
  - Exposure to chemicals and noise occurs, making protective equipment and safety routines important.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The profession is considered to have stable demand, but no exact forecast exists due to limited statistical data.