Welder, jacket

What does a welder within the casing do – tasks and work environment

A welder within the casing primarily works with joining, repairing, and manufacturing metal structures that include casings, pipes, and thin-walled metal components. The work requires high precision, often involving pressure vessels, piping systems, or custom metal enclosures for industrial purposes. The welder handles various welding techniques, such as MIG, TIG, or MMA, depending on the material and requirements for weld joints. The work environment is characterized by physical work, often in workshops, factories, or on installation sites. Protective gear is always used to minimize risks from heat, UV radiation, and particles.

Lönutveckling över tid

Over the past three years, wages for welders within the casing have shown steady growth. In 2022, the average salary was 33,000 SEK per month, which increased to 34 000 SEK in 2023 and now reaches 35 200 SEK for 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 6.7% over the period. Wage increases have mainly been driven by continued high demand for qualified welders, especially in industry, as well as an increased need for specialization and certifications. Despite technological development and some automation, there is still significant value in craftsmanship and experience, positively influencing wage development. However, future automation may dampen wage growth in the industry long-term.

Welder, casing salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 35 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,400 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 36,100 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 212 SEK
• Women: 34 100 SEK/month (96% of men's salary)
• Men: 35 400 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and labor market demand, especially higher in industrial cities.

Education and qualifications

To work as a welder within the casing, a vocational upper secondary education in industrial technology with a focus on welding is usually required. Many employers also require welding certificates and practical experience with various welding techniques. Some positions may require additional specialized courses, especially when working with pressure vessels or advanced materials. Internships during education are common and provide valuable work experience.

• Upper secondary education: Industrial technology program, 3 years
• Certifications: Welding certificates according to standards (e.g., ISO 9606)
• Internship: Mandatory workplace-based learning (APL) during education
• Prerequisites: Passed basic mathematics and technology
• Additional courses: Special courses for pressure vessels, stainless steel, or advanced materials

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for welders within the casing include shift allowances, overtime pay, and often wellness contributions. Many employers also provide work clothing, health checks related to the job, and sometimes opportunities for skills development through courses and certifications. Occupational pension and insurance are often included in collective agreements.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for welders within the casing is characterized by high demand and a pronounced shortage of qualified workers, providing good employment opportunities. However, demand is expected to decrease in the long term, according to the Swedish Public Employment Service, due to increased automation and technological development in industry. Rapid technological progress requires continuous skills development and adaptability. The profession is physically demanding, and the work environment may involve exposure to noise, heat, and heavy lifting. The competitive situation can vary regionally, with industrial cities often offering more opportunities than smaller towns.

Tips for those who want to become a welder within the casing

To succeed as a welder within the casing, it is good to have a technical interest and a willingness to learn new work methods. Precision is crucial, as the quality of weld joints is often inspected and demands high accuracy. Endurance and physical strength are needed since the job often involves heavy lifting and working in challenging environments. Being solution-oriented facilitates problem-solving during assembly or repair of complex structures. Good teamwork skills are also important, as work is often done in teams with other trades. Flexibility and adaptability help with shift work and varying tasks. Finally, a sense of responsibility is central, especially when working with pressurized systems and safety-critical tasks.

Key facts about welders within the casing

• Average salary: 35 200 SEK/month
• Salary range: 31,400–36,100 SEK/month
• Education: Industrial technical upper secondary education + certification
• Demand: Large shortage, but decreasing long-term
• Hourly wage: 212 SEK

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession as a welder within the casing, opportunities may open to undertake more advanced assignments, such as welding inspector or production supervisor. Some choose to further their education to become international welders or specialize in areas like pressure vessels or the energy sector. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service show that job opportunities remain strong in the short term, but demand may decline in the long term due to increased automation and technological development. Nevertheless, there are still many job openings, with 1,437 advertisements in the fields of machine setters and operators, metalwork. Those who continuously update their skills and stay informed about new technology have good prospects for development and maintaining their attractiveness in the labor market.

Frequently asked questions about welders within the casing

• What does a welder within the casing earn?
  - On average, a welder within the casing earns 35 200 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a welder within the casing?
  - Vocational upper secondary education in industrial technology with certification is required.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 34 100 SEK, which is 96% of men's salaries.
• What are the future prospects for welders within the casing?
  - Demand is high today but is expected to decrease in the long term due to automation.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for the profession?
  - The highest salary is 36,100 SEK, and the lowest is 31,400 SEK.
• What are the occupational health risks?
  - Exposure to heat, UV radiation, noise, and heavy lifting is common, so protective equipment is necessary.
• How much does a welder within the casing earn per hour?
  - The average hourly wage is 212 SEK.