Support printer

What does a Supportpress Operator do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Supportpress Operator mainly works with setting up, monitoring, and maintaining machines within metalworking, especially in production environments where precision and efficiency are crucial. Tasks often include handling and adjusting pressing machines, ensuring production meets quality standards, and troubleshooting minor technical issues. The work typically takes place in industrial facilities where the environment can be noisy and the pace high, with both day and shift work. Collaboration with other technicians and operators is essential to ensure a steady production flow and minimize downtime.

Salary development over time

Supportpress Operators have experienced steady salary growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,000 SEK, which increased to 34 000 SEK in 2023 and has continued up to 35 200 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 6.7% over three years. This positive trend reflects a continued demand for skilled workers in the metal industry, despite technological developments and automation starting to influence the role. Salary increases have been slightly higher than inflation, indicating the value of specialized skills and experience. Meanwhile, gender pay gaps have remained relatively stable, with women earning 96% of men's salaries.

Supportpress Operator Salary – Full Overview

• Average salary: 35 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,400 SEK/month (female, private employee, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 36,100 SEK/month (male, various sectors, post-secondary education less than 3 years)
• Hourly wage: 212 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 34 100 SEK, men 35 400 SEK (women 96% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Small, but higher wages in metropolitan regions

Education and Qualifications

To work as a Supportpress Operator, a high school education in industry, technology, or equivalent is usually required, sometimes complemented with post-secondary courses or certificates. Practical experience with machine handling and technical interest are highly valuable, and some employers prefer candidates who have completed internships or trainee programs in the industry. Some workplaces also offer internal training to ensure the right skill level.

• High school education: Industry technology programs (3 years)
• Post-secondary courses: Mechanical engineering, automation (6–12 months)
• Certifications: Working at heights, forklift and crane licenses
• Internship/trainee: Recommended for beginners
• Prerequisites: Technical interest, problem-solving skills
• Tips for choosing: Combine theory with practical experience for best opportunities

Common Benefits and Compensation

Supportpress Operators are often offered benefits such as shift allowances, overtime pay, wellness contributions, and work clothing. Many industry employers also provide workwear, subsidized lunches, and sometimes performance bonuses. Opportunities for skill development and further training are common.

Challenges and Competition

The job market for Supportpress Operators today is characterized by a shortage of qualified personnel, providing good chances for employment. However, demand is expected to decline over the next five years, partly due to increased automation and technological development in the industry. This means the role may evolve, requiring more advanced technical skills and flexibility. The work environment also demands high safety and accuracy standards. To remain competitive long-term, continuous training and staying updated on machine technology are essential.

Tips for Aspiring Supportpress Operators

To succeed as a Supportpress Operator, it is good to be precise, technically curious, and resilient. Gaining practical experience early through internships or summer jobs in the industry provides valuable insights and increases employment chances. Developing problem-solving skills and the ability to work methodically under pressure are appreciated by employers, especially during machine breakdowns. It is also important to be a team player and communicate clearly with colleagues to ensure a safe and efficient work environment. A willingness to learn new machine systems and participate in further education is crucial to stay relevant in the job market. Showing initiative and responsibility in daily work often leads to faster advancement. Finally, good physical endurance is advantageous, as the work can be physically and mentally demanding.

Key Facts about Supportpress Operators

• Average salary: 35 200 SEK/month
• Salary range: 31,400–36,100 SEK/month
• Education level: High school diploma, supplemented with certificates
• Work environment: Industrial production, often shift work
• Demand: High today, but decreasing over 5 years

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years in the profession, a Supportpress Operator can advance to roles such as senior machine operator, production technician, or supervisor within the industry. There are also opportunities to specialize in maintenance, automation, or quality assurance. According to the Employment Service's forecasts, the labor market for machine setters and operators in metalworking is currently strong with a significant skills shortage, but demand is expected to decline over five years due to automation and technological progress. Currently, there are 1437 job openings in the field, indicating ongoing need for new employees in the short term. Career opportunities also exist in related professions, such as maintenance technicians or production planners, for those who pursue further training.

Frequently Asked Questions about Supportpress Operators

• What does a Supportpress Operator earn?
  - A Supportpress Operator has an average salary of 35 200 SEK per month.
• How do gender differences look for Supportpress Operator salaries?
  - Men earn an average of 35 400 SEK, women 34 100 SEK, which means women earn 96% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a Supportpress Operator?
  - High school education in industry or technology is recommended, preferably supplemented with certificates and practical training.
• What are the future prospects for Supportpress Operators?
  - The job market is good today with a shortage of personnel, but demand is expected to decrease over the next five years.
• Are there regional salary differences for Supportpress Operators?
  - Yes, slightly higher salaries are found in metropolitan regions compared to other parts of the country.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Shift allowances, overtime pay, wellness contributions, and work clothing are common benefits.
• What career opportunities are available after a few years as a Supportpress Operator?
  - Opportunities include advancement to senior machine operator, supervisor, or further training towards technical specialist roles.