Stand, plastic

What does a Ställare in the plastics industry do? – Tasks and work environment

A Ställare in the plastics industry is responsible for setting up, monitoring, and adjusting machines used in the production of plastic products. Tasks include changing tools and molds, starting and stopping manufacturing processes, and ensuring the quality of the output. Preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and minor repairs are also often part of the job. The work environment is typically industrial, involving work in production facilities where noise and machinery operate. Precision, technical interest, and the ability to work systematically are important qualities in this profession.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary development for Ställare in the plastics industry has been steadily positive. In 2022, the average salary was 30,900 SEK per month. The following year, 2023, it increased to 32 000 SEK, representing an increase of just over 3.5%. The latest data from 2024 shows a further rise to 33 200 SEK, an increase of about 3.8% from the previous year. The trend indicates that demand for skilled Ställare remains strong, even as technological development and automation gradually influence the role. Salary increases can be linked to difficulties employers face in recruiting experienced Ställare, as well as an increased need for technical skills as machinery is modernized.

Ställare, plastic salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 33 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,500 SEK/month (female, regional sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 35,700 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education >3 years)
• Hourly wage: 200 SEK
• Women earn: 31 800 SEK/month (94% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 33 900 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on labor market conditions and employer, but clear regional differences are difficult to determine from available statistics.

Education and qualifications

To work as a Ställare in the plastics industry, a high school education in industrial technology or a similar technical program is usually required, often supplemented with on-the-job training. Practical experience is highly valued, and many employers offer introductory programs to ensure proper handling of machines and processes. Some roles may require specific certifications or further training in automation or process technology.

• High school education: Industrial technology program, 3 years
• Post-secondary courses: Focus on automation, process technology, or maintenance
• Workplace internships: Usually during education or as a trainee
• Certifications: Possibly forklift or crane licenses
• Prerequisites: Technical interest and basic mathematics

Common benefits and compensations

Ställare in the plastics industry are often offered benefits such as shift or overtime premiums, wellness contributions, work clothing, and sometimes bonuses tied to production results. Occupational pensions and various insurance schemes are typically included in employment terms, along with opportunities for further training or certification at the employer’s expense.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a Ställare in the plastics industry is influenced by technological development and changes in labor demand. Despite there being 1,437 vacancies nationwide, demand is expected to decline over time according to the Swedish Public Employment Service, mainly due to increased automation and efficiency improvements. Recruitment difficulties are also reported, as many leave the profession and training pathways can be lengthy. However, those who quickly learn new technologies and machines still have good chances of employment, especially in companies investing in new technology.

Tips for aspiring Ställare in the plastics industry

To succeed as a Ställare, it is beneficial to have an analytical mindset, as troubleshooting and machine setup often require precision and problem-solving skills. Being flexible and able to quickly adapt to new production processes is also an advantage, especially as technology develops rapidly. It is recommended to seek internships during education to gain practical experience early and build a network. Good teamwork skills are essential, as work is often performed in teams where communication and responsibility are central. Continuously updating skills and staying informed about the latest technology improves career prospects. Finally, showing engagement and a willingness to learn is important, as employers value employees who take initiative and contribute to workplace development.

Key facts about Ställare, plastic

• Education level: High school or post-secondary technical education
• Work environment: Industrial production, often shift work
• Demand: Great opportunities today, but decreasing demand expected over five years
• Special skills: Machine setup, troubleshooting, and quality control
• Number of job openings: 1,437 (2024, nationally for the profession)

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years of experience, a Ställare in the plastics industry can advance to roles such as lead operator, technician, or supervisor within production. Some move on to specialist roles with responsibility for specific machines, process optimization, or quality assurance. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, job opportunities remain large in the short term, but demand is expected to decline as more tasks are automated. Despite this, there are currently many vacancies, and trained, experienced Ställare will continue to be attractive in the labor market, especially for employers with advanced production technology.

Common questions about Ställare, plastic

• What does a Ställare, plastic earn?
  - The average salary is 33 200 SEK per month, depending on experience, education, and employer.
• How to become a Ställare in the plastics industry?
  - The most common route is high school education in industrial technology, often supplemented with internships and internal training.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 31 800 SEK per month, which is 94% of men's salaries.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - In the short term, job opportunities are good, but demand is expected to decrease over five years due to automation.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Attention to detail, technical interest, problem-solving skills, and teamwork are highly valued.
• What is the highest salary for a Ställare, plastic?
  - The highest salary is 35,700 SEK per month and applies to a man who is a private sector employee with post-secondary education.
• How many job openings are there in the profession?
  - There are 1,437 job openings in the occupation of machine operators, plastics industry (2024).