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What does a Stengravör do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A stengravör works with engraving texts, symbols, and images into stone, most often on gravestones, memorials, or artistic decorations. The tasks include both traditional craftsmanship and modern techniques, where the engraver often uses specialized tools, machines, and computer-controlled systems to create detailed engravings. The work requires great precision, artistic sense, and the ability to interpret customer wishes. Stengravörer typically work in a workshop environment, but some tasks may also be performed outdoors at cemeteries or public places, which means the work environment can vary from indoor to outdoor depending on the assignment.

Salary Development Over Time

Stengravörers' salaries have shown a clear increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,500 SEK per month, which increased slightly to 33 800 SEK in 2023. The most recent year has seen a stronger rise, with the average salary reaching 38 000 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to an increase of approximately 13.4 % from 2023 to 2024. This positive trend can partly be explained by an increased focus on craftsmanship skills within the construction and funeral industries, as well as ongoing demand for unique and personalized engraving work. The market for stengravörer is relatively small but specialized, which means competence and experience can quickly influence salary levels.

Stengravör Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 38 000 SEK/month
• Lowest/Highest salary: Data not available, but variation can occur depending on experience and workplace
• Hourly wage: 228 SEK/hour (based on 166 working hours/month)
• Gender differences: Men earn an average of 38 300 SEK/month; specific data for women is not available
• Regional differences: Specific data is lacking, but demand and salaries may vary depending on region and demand for engraving services

Education and Qualifications

To work as a stengravör, a typical requirement is education in stone processing or equivalent craft training, often supplemented with practical training or an apprenticeship. Formal requirements may vary, but employers often seek both artistic sense and technical precision. Self-taught skills and experience are highly valued, especially when it comes to handling various tools and materials.

• Vocational training: Secondary vocational education in craft with a focus on stone processing (approximately 3 years)
• Practical training: Apprenticeship or practical placement at gravestone or stonemasonry companies is recommended
• Courses: Specialized courses in engraving techniques and machine handling are advantageous
• Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of mathematics and art/visual arts facilitates learning
• Self-study: Opportunities for development via online courses or mentorship from experienced engravers

Common Benefits and Compensation

Stengravörer often have access to benefits such as work clothing, wellness allowances, and sometimes additional insurance through the employer. Some workplaces also offer opportunities for further training, subsidized lunches, or flexible working hours depending on the season and assignments.

Competition and Challenges

The job market for stengravörer is limited, and competition can be significant, especially in regions with few gravestone companies or stonemasonry workshops. The industry is also sensitive to economic fluctuations and changes in demand for traditional engraving work, for example due to digitalization or changing funeral traditions. At the same time, the profession requires great precision and patience, which can be challenging for those seeking variety or quick results. However, the availability of job openings within the profession is relatively good, with over 1400 advertised positions, although specific statistics for stengravörer are lacking.

Tips for Aspiring Stengravörs

To succeed as a stengravör, it is good to combine accuracy with creativity, as the profession demands both precision and artistic sense. Developing patience and perseverance is important, as engraving work often takes time and requires concentration. Seeking practical training or an apprenticeship early provides valuable experience and contacts within the industry. Being curious about technical solutions and digital tools can also be an advantage, as modern tools are often used. Good communication skills facilitate interactions with clients and colleagues, especially when personal wishes need to be realized. Having an eye for detail is crucial for delivering high quality, and flexibility is helpful since tasks can vary from day to day.

Key Facts about Stengravör

• Education level: Secondary vocational education or equivalent
• Work environment: Workshop and sometimes outdoors at cemeteries or public places
• Work arrangement: Full-time, part-time, or hourly employment
• Demand: About 1,437 available jobs within the profession
• Special skills: Engraving techniques, material knowledge, and artistic sense

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years in the profession, stengravörer can take on greater responsibilities, such as supervisor, specialized engraver, or own business within engraving and stonemasonry. Some choose to further their education in artistic engraving or supplement with digital design to broaden their work scope. The employment service does not provide a separate forecast for stengravörer due to limited data, but within the broader group of stonemasons and similar professions, there is a relatively good demand with over 1400 registered job openings. Future prospects are influenced by economic cycles, technological changes, and evolving funeral traditions. Related professions include stonemasons, gravestone designers, and artistic engravers.

Common Questions about Stengravör

• What does a Stengravör earn?
  - A stengravör has an average salary of 38 000 SEK per month.
• How to become a stengravör?
  - The profession usually requires secondary vocational education with a focus on stone processing and practical training or apprenticeship.
• Are there job opportunities for stengravörer?
  - There are over 1,437 available jobs within the profession, but competition can vary depending on the region.
• What does a stengravör do at work?
  - The work involves engraving text, symbols, and images into stone for gravestones, memorials, or artistic purposes.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Attention to detail, artistic sense, patience, and technical interest are important qualities in the profession.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - The average salary for men is 38 300 SEK; specific data for women is not available.
• What education is recommended for stengravörer?
  - Secondary education in craft and stone processing is recommended, preferably with additional courses in engraving techniques.