Tagelvaruarbetare

What does a Tagelvaruarbetare do? – Tasks and work environment

A Tagelvaruarbetare handles the manufacturing and processing of products where raw animal hair, often from horses, is used as the main material. Tasks include sorting, cleaning, and processing of raw hair, as well as assembling finished items such as furniture padding, brushes, and other specialty products. The work is typically performed in industrial environments or specialized workshops with mechanical and manual processes. The work environment can be physically demanding, involving repetitive tasks, and exposure to dust and fibers, which requires good ventilation and protective equipment.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salary development for Tagelvaruarbetare has been clearly positive. In 2022, the average salary was 28,200 SEK per month, increasing to 30 300 in 2023 – a rise of approximately 7.4%. Between 2023 and 2024, the trend continued with an increase to 31 400, corresponding to an additional 3.6%. This development reflects a general wage increase within the industry, possibly influenced by demand for experienced workers and compensation for rising inflation. Despite this, salary levels are still somewhat below the Swedish industrial average, which is typical for occupations with relatively low formal education requirements and high competition for positions.

Tagelvaruarbetare salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 31 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,100 SEK/month (female, regional sector, up to 2 years high school education)
• Highest salary: 35,800 SEK/month (male, public sector, 3 years high school education)
• Hourly wage (average): 189 SEK
• Gender differences: Men earn 31 900 SEK, women 30 500 SEK (women: 95% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salary ranges mainly depend on sector and education level

Education and qualifications

The pathway to becoming a Tagelvaruarbetare is often practical and does not require extended formal education. The most common background is a high school diploma in industry or crafts, sometimes supplemented with internal company training. Ability to operate machinery and precision in manual work are key qualities, and many employers value experience in similar tasks highly.

• High school education: Industry or craft programs, 2–3 years
• Internal company training: Often 1–6 months
• Internship: Common through vocational introduction or apprenticeship programs
• Experience: Previous work in manufacturing or similar industry is advantageous
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition, attention to detail, some machinery experience

Common benefits and compensations

Typically, Tagelvaruarbetare are offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, holiday pay, and sometimes wellness allowances. Overtime pay and shift premiums are common, especially for shift work. Work clothing and protective equipment are usually provided by the employer, and subsidized meals or employee discounts are not uncommon at larger workplaces.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a Tagelvaruarbetare is considered high, meaning there is often an oversupply of job seekers compared to available positions. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast for the profession of packaging workers and factory workers, job opportunities are limited nationwide, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Automation and efficiency improvements in industry may further impact the need for manual labor. However, some niche employers seek experienced and specialized workers, which can be advantageous for those with the right profile.

Tips for aspiring Tagelvaruarbetare

To succeed as a Tagelvaruarbetare, resilience and precision are important, as the work often involves repetitive tasks where accuracy matters. Good physical condition helps with heavy lifting and long workdays, especially in environments with high work tempo. Flexibility and the ability to quickly learn new tasks are valued by employers, as is a positive attitude towards teamwork. An interest in materials and craftsmanship can provide extra motivation and improve work quality. Taking the initiative to do internships or summer jobs can provide insight into the profession and help build contacts. Finally, showing responsibility and a professional attitude is highly valued by colleagues and management.

Key facts about Tagelvaruarbetare

• Average salary: 31 400 SEK/month
• Salary range: 30,100–35,800 SEK/month
• Gender difference: Women earn 95% of men's salary
• Education level: High school, often supplemented with internal training
• Work environment: Industrial, physically demanding, and sometimes monotonous

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, opportunities exist to advance to supervisory roles within production or specialize in quality control and material handling. Some choose to move into other positions within industrial manufacturing, such as machine operator or process technician. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the outlook for the profession of packaging workers and factory workers is relatively unchanged, with limited new job opportunities and an oversupply of labor nationwide. Nevertheless, over 1,400 jobs are still available, offering some opportunities for those with the right skills or willingness to relocate. Automation and digitalization may, however, reduce the need for manual work in the industry over time.

Common questions about Tagelvaruarbetare

• What does a Tagelvaruarbetare earn?
  - A Tagelvaruarbetare has an average salary of 31 400 SEK per month. The salary range varies from 30,100 SEK to 35,800 SEK depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn an average of 31 900 SEK, while women earn 30 500 SEK, which means women earn 95% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a Tagelvaruarbetare?
  - The most common is high school education in industry or crafts, complemented by internal training and practical experience.
• What is the job market like for Tagelvaruarbetare?
  - The job market is competitive with limited opportunities for new positions and a national oversupply of labor, but there are just over 1,400 available jobs in the profession.
• What tasks does a Tagelvaruarbetare perform?
  - Tasks include sorting, processing, and assembling raw material, as well as manufacturing products like furniture padding and brushes.
• Can salary be influenced by education level or sector?
  - Yes, the highest salary of 35,800 SEK is found in the public sector and among those with longer high school education.
• What personal qualities are important in this profession?
  - Attention to detail, endurance, and good physical condition are important qualities for success and satisfaction as a Tagelvaruarbetare.