Time study engineer, machine

What does a time study engineer in mechanical engineering do? – Tasks and work environment

A time study engineer in mechanical engineering primarily analyzes, maps, and improves production flows in industry. By measuring and evaluating work elements, machine processes, and staff routines, opportunities for efficiency gains are identified, which can lead to increased productivity and reduced costs. The work often involves close collaboration with production engineers, operators, and management to develop standard times, optimize task distribution, and suggest technical improvements. The work environment is typically located in factories, workshops, and production facilities, but may also include office work for analysis, reporting, and development of work methods.

Salary development over time

The salary development for time study engineers in mechanical engineering has been steadily positive over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 41,500 SEK per month, which increased to 43 700 SEK in 2023 and reached 45 300 SEK in 2024. The annual average increase is approximately 4–5%, slightly above the general salary level for technical professions. This trend can partly be explained by increased demand for efficiency in industry and the need for specialized skills to meet digitalization and automation. Competition for experienced engineers has also driven up salaries in certain regions and sectors.

Time Study Engineer, Machine Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 45 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 37,000 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 68,000 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, doctoral degree)
• Lowest male salary: 39,900 SEK/month
• Highest male salary: 50,500 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 272 SEK
• Women: 43 200 SEK/month (95% of men's salary)
• Men: 45 600 SEK/month

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a time study engineer in mechanical engineering usually involves a university engineering degree in mechanical engineering or a similar technical field, supplemented with courses in production technology and industrial economics. Practical experience from production or work within industry is highly valuable, and many start their careers as production engineers or operators before specializing in time studies. For some positions, certifications in lean production, occupational health and safety, or project management can be advantageous.

• University engineering degree: 3 years in mechanical engineering or equivalent
• Courses in production technology and logistics: often required or highly meritorious
• Internship/work experience: experience from production or manufacturing is highly valued
• Certifications: e.g., Lean, Six Sigma, or project management can be beneficial
• Technical interest and analytical ability: important for success in the role

Common benefits and compensations

Time study engineers in mechanical engineering are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexitime, and opportunities for skills development. Other common compensations may include productivity-based bonuses, subsidized lunches, and sometimes remote work options depending on the employer and project.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a time study engineer in mechanical engineering varies depending on region and industry. In some parts of the country, demand is high, reflected in a relatively large number of available jobs in the profession. Challenges in the role include constantly staying updated on new technologies, digital tools, and changing production requirements. The ability to combine technical expertise with good communication skills is crucial, especially when implementing changes in established teams. The profession also requires a balance between analytical precision and practical understanding of the production environment.

Tips for those wanting to become a time study engineer in mechanical engineering

To succeed as a time study engineer in mechanical engineering, it is good to be analytical and meticulous, as the profession involves collecting and processing large amounts of data. Good collaboration skills facilitate dialogue with colleagues in production and make it easier to implement changes. Curiosity and a technical interest help quickly familiarize oneself with new processes and machines. Problem-solving skills are also valuable, as unexpected challenges often arise during different project phases. For those aiming to be highly attractive on the job market, experience in both production and project management can be advantageous. Building a network within the industry and participating in industry events can also open doors to new opportunities. Finally, demonstrating drive and engagement is important, as many employers value initiative and a willingness to develop.

Key facts about Time Study Engineer, Machine

• Salary range: 37,000–68,000 SEK/month
• Average salary: 45 300 SEK/month
• Education level: University engineering degree, 3 years
• Work environment: Factories, workshops, and offices
• Available jobs in the profession: 564

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years in the profession, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as production developer, project manager, or specialist in efficiency and lean production. Some time study engineers move on to leadership positions, such as production manager or quality manager. Projections from the Employment Service for engineers and technicians in mechanical engineering do not provide an exact assessment for time study engineers, but indications suggest continued demand driven by industry needs for efficiency and technological development. In 2024, there were a total of 564 available jobs in the profession, demonstrating good opportunities for new and experienced engineers to find employment. Specializations in digitalization, automation, or sustainable production can further strengthen career prospects.

Frequently asked questions about Time Study Engineer, Machine

• What does a time study engineer in mechanical engineering earn?
  - The average salary is 45 300 SEK per month, with a range from 37,000 to 68,000 SEK depending on experience and education.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 43 200 SEK while men earn 45 600 SEK, which means women have 95% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a time study engineer in mechanical engineering?
  - Usually, a university engineering degree in mechanical engineering or similar technical education, often supplemented with courses in production technology.
• What is the job market like for time study engineers?
  - There are good opportunities, with 564 available jobs in the profession and continued demand for efficiency improvements in industry.
• What tasks does a time study engineer perform?
  - The tasks include analyzing and improving production processes, measuring and standardizing work elements, and proposing production improvements.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for the profession?
  - The highest salary is 68,000 SEK for a woman with a doctoral degree in the municipal sector, while the lowest is 37,000 SEK for a woman with a high school education in the public sector.