Match factory workers

What does a matchstick factory worker do? – Tasks and work environment

A matchstick factory worker is responsible for manufacturing and handling matches through various stages of production. Tasks include machine monitoring, quality control, packaging, as well as maintenance and basic adjustments of machines. The work often takes place in a factory environment involving both manual and machine-based processes. The work environment is characterized by some monotony but also requires accuracy, safety awareness, and the ability to follow detailed instructions. Shift work is common, and noise levels can be high, so good physical condition and resilience to routine work are important qualities.

Salary development over time

Salaries for matchstick factory workers have shown stable growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,100 SEK per month. The following year, 2023, saw a slight increase to 32 900 SEK, representing an increase of just under 6% compared to the previous year. In 2024, the average salary increased marginally to 33 000 SEK, indicating a very slight percentage increase of just over 0.3%. Salary levels are mainly influenced by demand within the wood industry and the general wage level for machine operators. The differences between women and men have remained relatively constant, with women earning on average 97% of men's salaries. The weak wage increase in recent years can partly be explained by a stable but recession-affected labor market with limited wage growth in the industry.

Matchstick factory worker salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 32,200 SEK/month (woman), 32,700 SEK/month (man)
• Highest salary: 33,600 SEK/month (woman), 33,800 SEK/month (man)
• Hourly wage: 198 SEK/hour (hourly employee, average)
• Gender differences: Women earn 97% of men's salaries
• Regional differences: No specific data available

Education and qualifications

To work as a matchstick factory worker, usually no formal higher education is required, but a high school diploma in industrial technology or wood technology is advantageous. Employers may also offer internal training to ensure new employees quickly familiarize themselves with specific tasks. Practical experience with machine handling and production in the wood industry is often beneficial. Some companies may also require safety training and introductory courses before starting work.

• High school education: Industrial technology program or wood technology (3 years)
• Internal training: On-the-job introduction, often 1–3 months
• Certifications: Basic safety training may be required
• Internship: Practical components during training or via workplace-based learning
• Prerequisites: Attention to detail, technical interest, and good physical condition

Common benefits and compensations

Matchstick factory workers are often covered by collective agreements regulating compensation for unsocial hours, overtime, and shift work. Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness subsidies, and sometimes subsidized lunch or work clothing. Some employers also offer health checks and opportunities for further training within the industry.

Competition and challenges

Competition for jobs as a matchstick factory worker is relatively low, mainly due to the niche nature of the profession and the limited number of matchstick factories in Sweden. At the same time, it can be challenging to find long-term career opportunities since the industry is small and technological development increases the need for machine skills rather than manual tasks. Physical strain and monotonous work are other challenges, as is the risk of work-related injuries in factory and machinery environments. To thrive, endurance, precision, and the ability to adapt to routines and safety requirements are necessary.

Tips for those who want to become a matchstick factory worker

To succeed as a matchstick factory worker, it is good to be precise and patient, as production requires both accuracy and endurance. Showing technical interest can be advantageous for machine handling and troubleshooting, especially when tasks quickly switch between manual and machine-based work. Good physical condition is an asset since the work sometimes involves heavy lifting and standing for long periods. Flexibility and teamwork skills are important, particularly during shift work where teamwork is often crucial. Demonstrating engagement and responsibility increases chances of long-term employment and further training at the workplace. An interest in safety and the work environment is appreciated by employers and shows that you take the profession seriously. Finally, a willingness to continuously learn new tasks and develop within production is an advantage for those who want to stay and grow in the role.

Key facts about matchstick factory workers

• Average salary: 33 000 SEK/month
• Salary range: 32,200–33,800 SEK/month
• Education level: High school or internal training
• Work environment: Factory, often shift work and noisy environment
• Number of job openings in the profession: 1437

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a matchstick factory worker, there are opportunities for further development within production, such as becoming a machine operator with increased responsibilities or a team leader for a workgroup. Some may also specialize in maintenance or quality control, which requires additional training at the workplace. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, no separate assessment is made for this specific profession due to limited data, but within the group of machine carpenters and machine operators in the wood industry, there are a total of 1437 job openings, indicating ongoing demand for labor. The future outlook is affected by automation and technological development, which may increase the need for technical skills and further training within the industry.

Frequently asked questions about matchstick factory workers

• What does a matchstick factory worker earn?
  - A matchstick factory worker has an average salary of 33 000 SEK/month, with an hourly wage of 198 SEK for hourly employees.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 97% of what men do within the profession.
• What education is needed to work as a matchstick factory worker?
  - High school education in industrial technology or wood technology is advantageous, but internal training at the workplace is often sufficient.
• What is the work environment like?
  - The work environment is a factory with noise, shift work, and sometimes monotonous tasks.
• Are there many job openings in this profession?
  - In the trades of carpenters and machine operators in the wood industry, there are 1,437 job openings.
• What are the future prospects?
  - No specific forecast exists for the profession, but demand in the broader group is considered stable.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a matchstick factory worker?
  - The highest salary is 33,800 SEK (man), 33,600 SEK (woman), and the lowest 32,200 SEK (woman), 32,700 SEK (man).