Stacker, lumber yard

What does a stacking worker in a sawmill do? – Tasks and working environment

A stacking worker in a sawmill is responsible for sorting, stacking, and handling timber products within the wood industry, often near sawmills or building material suppliers. Tasks include lifting and placing planks on pallets or carts, checking the quality of the wood, and sometimes packaging and labeling products for further transport. The work is usually outdoors or in large, partly sheltered storage facilities, which means varying temperatures and weather conditions. Physical strength, good endurance, and the ability to work carefully are important qualities in this role, as the work environment is often noisy and requires great precision to avoid damage to both materials and personnel.

Wage development over time

Over the past three years, wages for stacking workers in sawmills have steadily increased. In 2022, the average salary was 28200 kr per month, followed by an increase to 30 300 kr in 2023. By 2024, the average salary has continued to rise and is now 31 400 kr, representing an approximate total increase of 11% over the period. This positive trend can partly be explained by increased focus on working conditions and wage negotiations within the industry, as well as a general wage development in the sector. Although demand for the profession as a whole remains unchanged according to the Employment Service's forecasts, competition for labor and inflationary pressures have contributed to wages rising somewhat faster than in previous years.

Stacking worker in a sawmill salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 31 400 kr/month
• Lowest salary: 30 100 kr/month (female, regional sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Highest salary: 35 800 kr/month (male, public sector, 3-year high school education)
• Hourly wage (average): 189 kr
• Women: 30 500 kr/month (95% of men's salary)
• Men: 31 900 kr/month
• Regional differences: Lowest wages are found in the regional sector, highest in the public sector

Education and qualifications

To work as a stacking worker in a sawmill, no long formal education is usually required, but high school education in industry, construction, or wood technology is advantageous. Many employers offer internal training, and practical experience is highly valued. Some workplaces may require forklift licenses or safety training, especially if heavy machinery is involved. Physical ability and precision are crucial for success in the profession.

• High school education: Construction and civil engineering or industrial technology programs (3 years)
• Internal training: Common, often an introduction on the job
• Forklift license: May be required if forklifts are used in the work
• Work environment training: Basic safety training recommended
• Practical experience: Experience from similar work is advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to the base salary, extra payments for unsocial hours and overtime are often offered. Some employers provide work clothing, wellness contributions, and subsidized lunches. Insurance for accidents and illness is common, as well as opportunities for skill development and further training within the company.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a stacking worker in a sawmill is relatively high, as the profession often has an oversupply of labor. According to the Employment Service's forecast, demand for manual packers and similar roles is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. One of the biggest challenges is the work environment, which can be physically demanding and involve monotonous tasks. Automation and efficiency improvements in the industry may also influence the need for labor in the long term, making flexibility and readiness for change important. At the same time, there are opportunities for those who want to develop and take on more responsibility, such as within logistics or supervisory roles.

Tips for those who want to become a stacking worker in a sawmill

To succeed as a stacking worker, it is good to have good physical endurance and a positive attitude towards physical work, as the tasks are often heavy and monotonous. Precision is an important trait to ensure materials are handled correctly and no errors occur in stacking or sorting. Being cooperative facilitates the work, as many tasks require close collaboration with colleagues. Showing initiative, such as learning new work tasks or taking responsibility for the work environment, is also valuable. Flexibility is appreciated by employers, especially when tasks may vary depending on the season or orders. Having a basic understanding of safety and machinery also provides better opportunities for development in the profession.

Key facts about stacking workers in a sawmill

• Wage range: 30 100–35 800 kr/month
• Average salary: 31 400 kr/month
• Education level: High school education, often with internal training
• Work environment: Physically demanding, often outdoors or in warehouses
• Demand: Low to unchanged according to the Employment Service

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years as a stacking worker in a sawmill, there may be opportunities to advance to supervisory roles, such as team leader or warehouse supervisor. Some choose to further their education in wood technology or production technology, which can open doors to more advanced positions within the wood industry. However, forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that demand for the profession is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with an oversupply of labor nationally. Despite this, there are job openings to apply for – a current review shows that there are 1437 available positions in roles such as manual packers and factory workers. The labor market is competitive, making it important to continuously develop skills to increase employability.

Common questions about stacking workers in a sawmill

• What does a stacking worker in a sawmill earn?
  - A stacking worker in a sawmill has an average salary of 31 400 kr per month, with a range between 30 100 and 35 800 kr.
• Are there wage differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn an average of 31 900 kr and women 30 500 kr, which means women earn approximately 95% of men's wages.
• What education is required to become a stacking worker in a sawmill?
  - High school education in industry or construction is advantageous, but many workplaces offer on-the-job training.
• What is the working environment like?
  - The environment is physically demanding, often outdoors or in large warehouses.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - According to the Employment Service, demand is unchanged, with some competition for jobs.
• What benefits are common?
  - Benefits include shift allowances, overtime pay, work clothing, and sometimes wellness contributions.
• Are there opportunities for advancement?
  - Yes, with experience, there are possibilities to become a supervisor or to further train within the wood industry.