Textile bleach

What does a textile bleacher do? – Tasks and work environment

A textile bleacher primarily works with treating textiles through bleaching, dyeing, and washing, often in an industrial environment. The profession involves handling various machines and chemicals to achieve desired shades, whiteness, or specific properties of fabrics and yarns. The work requires precision, understanding of processes, and safe handling of equipment. The work environment is often production-oriented, where textile bleachers collaborate with other machine operators and technicians to ensure quality and efficiency in the manufacturing process.

Salary development over time

The salary for a textile bleacher has shown a steady but modestly positive development over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 26,600 SEK per month, which slightly decreased to 26 500 SEK in 2023. However, in 2024, the average salary increased to 27 800 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 4.9% compared to the previous year. This change can be explained by increased demand for experienced machine operators and general wage adjustments within the industry. The sector's need for specialized skills and technical knowledge contributes to maintaining or increasing salary levels in line with technological advances and production demands.

Textile bleacher salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 27 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 23,400 SEK/month (male, public sector, high school education 3 years)
• Highest salary: 30,000 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage: 167 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn an average of 27 900 SEK, men 27 700 SEK – very small differences
• Regional differences: No specific data available

Education and qualifications

A textile bleacher typically has a high school education in industry, textiles, or a related technical program. Practical experience from the textile industry is often advantageous, and some employers may require specific courses or certificates in machine handling and chemical safety. On-the-job training is common, especially for those without prior experience.

• High school education: Industry or textile programs, 2–3 years
• Introduction/internship: Practical training on the job
• Certifications: Courses in chemical handling can be a plus
• Prerequisites: Basic technical understanding and precision
• Tips for choosing: Interest in technology and textile production is recommended

Common benefits and compensation

Textile bleachers often have access to collective agreements, which provide pension rights, insurance, and extra vacation days. Shift work may occur and sometimes includes additional compensation. Healthcare and work clothing are other common benefits offered within the industry.

Competition and challenges

The job market for textile bleachers is relatively small and niche, leading to limited competition for positions but also a limited number of jobs. The industry is affected by economic cycles, technological development, and globalization, where some tasks can be streamlined or moved abroad. At the same time, the profession requires specialized knowledge and practical experience, which sustains demand for skilled textile bleachers within Swedish industry. The challenge often lies in keeping up with technological changes and maintaining high quality despite potential rationalizations.

Tips for aspiring textile bleachers

To succeed as a textile bleacher, it’s beneficial to combine technical curiosity with a willingness to learn practically. Accuracy helps ensure machines and chemicals are handled correctly, which is crucial for safety and quality. Patience and the ability to work systematically contribute to early detection and resolution of problems. Teamwork skills are valuable since production often occurs in teams, and good communication facilitates collaboration with other professionals. Finally, being flexible and eager to further educate yourself is important, as new technologies and methods are continuously introduced in the industry.

Key facts about Textile Bleacher

• Salary range: 23,400–30,000 SEK/month
• Education level: High school (industry/textile), 2–3 years
• Work environment: Industrial production, often shift work
• Hourly wage: 167 SEK
• Demand: 1,437 job openings within the occupational group in 2024

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, many textile bleachers have the opportunity to advance to supervisory roles such as shift leaders, production managers, or specialists in dyeing and quality assurance. There are also opportunities to further educate oneself in process or production technology to broaden competencies. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, there is no specific assessment for textile bleachers, but the overall occupational group has 1,437 job openings, indicating ongoing demand. However, future prospects are influenced by technological development and changes within the textile industry, where specialized skills remain highly valued.

Common questions about Textile Bleacher

• What is the average salary of a textile bleacher?
  - A textile bleacher has an average monthly salary of 27 800 SEK.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Women earn an average of 27 900 SEK and men 27 700 SEK, so differences are very small.
• What education is required to become a textile bleacher?
  - A high school education in industry or textiles, often 2–3 years, is recommended.
• What does the work environment look like for a textile bleacher?
  - The work takes place in an industrial environment with machines and chemicals, often as part of a production team.
• Are there good future prospects in the profession?
  - There are 1,437 job openings in the occupational group, but no specific forecast for textile bleachers.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a textile bleacher?
  - The highest salary is 30,000 SEK (female, public sector), the lowest is 23,400 SEK (male, government sector).
• What personal qualities are important in the profession?
  - Attention to detail, patience, technical understanding, and teamwork skills are important qualities for a textile bleacher.