Slipper nails

What does a slipper nailer do? – Tasks and work environment

A slipper nailer primarily works with assembling, nailing, and finishing slippers and similar footwear within the textile, leather, and shoe industries. The profession involves working with machines and hand tools to attach soles, reinforce edges, and ensure the products meet quality standards. The work is often performed in production environments where pace and precision are important. Many slipper nailers are part of small work teams, but tasks are often carried out independently, requiring good hand-eye coordination and attention to detail. The work environment is characterized by repetitive movements and some physical strain, but modern workplaces often provide ergonomic tools to reduce the risk of work-related injuries.

Salary development over time

The salary for slipper nailers has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 27,700 SEK, rising to 29 600 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary is 30 400 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 10% over the three-year period. This salary growth can partly be explained by increased demand for skilled labor in the textile and leather industries, as well as general industry wage adjustments and inflation compensation. Gender differences have remained relatively constant, with women earning about 95% of men's salaries. The trend indicates that the profession offers stable salary development, but salary ranges are influenced by sector and education level.

Slipper nailer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 30 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 29,400 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, high school education 3 years)
• Highest salary: 32,200 SEK/month (male, regional sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage: 183 SEK/hour (hourly employee, 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Men 31 200 SEK, women 29 700 SEK (women earn 95% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Highest salary for men in regional sector, highest salary for women 30,300 SEK

Education and qualifications

To work as a slipper nailer, a high school education in industry, textiles, or craftsmanship is usually required. Practical experience and skills in handling machines and tools are highly meritorious. Many employers view previous work in similar manufacturing industries positively, but internal training and induction programs are also common at workplaces.

• High school education: Industry, textile, or craft programs (2–3 years)
• Internship: Internships or apprenticeship positions are often offered during education
• Internal training: Many workplaces have their own induction programs
• Prerequisites: Familiarity with machines, precision, and good motor skills
• Courses: Safety and ergonomics courses may be included

Common benefits and compensations

Slipper nailers are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, work clothing, and sometimes meal subsidies. Compensation for inconvenient working hours may also be provided during shift work.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a slipper nailer varies depending on the region and demand within the textile and leather industries. The number of available jobs in the profession is relatively high, with 1,437 advertised positions according to the latest survey. Challenges in the profession include monotonous tasks, physically repetitive work, and the risk of strain injuries. Digitalization and automation are also affecting the labor market, leading to changes or elimination of certain tasks. The lack of formal educational requirements may create competition from individuals with diverse backgrounds, but practical experience is highly valued by employers.

Tips for those who want to become a slipper nailer

To succeed as a slipper nailer, it is beneficial to combine precision with practical skills and patience. Gaining early experience with machines and tools, such as through internships or summer jobs, increases chances of employment. Good teamwork skills are valuable in production environments, where teams often collaborate to achieve common goals. Flexibility and willingness to learn new tasks help manage changes in work duties and technology. Physical endurance is also important, as the work can be monotonous and require standing most of the day. Attention to detail reduces errors and improves product quality. Finally, showing interest in ergonomics and work environment contributes to a long and sustainable career in the profession.

Key facts about slipper nailers

• Salary range: 29,400–32,200 SEK/month
• Education level: High school education (2–3 years), often with practical training
• Work environment: Industrial production, monotonous and physically demanding
• Vacant jobs: 1,437 advertised positions (profession group)
• Gender salary difference: Women earn 95% of men's salaries

Career paths and future prospects

After several years of experience, a slipper nailer can advance to foreman or production supervisor, or specialize in more advanced tasks such as quality control or machine maintenance. There are also opportunities to move into other roles within the textile and leather industries, such as machine operator or production technician. According to the Employment Service's forecast, no precise assessment is made for the profession due to limited data, which means that future prospects are uncertain but the current availability of jobs in the profession is good. Those interested in developing within the industry often have good opportunities for further education and internal career advancement.

Frequently asked questions about slipper nailers

• What does a slipper nailer earn?
  - The average salary is 30 400 SEK per month, ranging from 29,400 to 32,200 SEK depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• Are there differences between men and women in the profession?
  - Yes, women earn on average 95% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What education is required to become a slipper nailer?
  - High school education in industry, textiles, or craftsmanship is most common, often supplemented with practical training.
• What is the job market like for slipper nailers?
  - Currently, there are 1,437 vacant jobs within the profession, but the future outlook is uncertain according to the Employment Service.
• What tasks does a slipper nailer perform?
  - Tasks include assembling, nailing, and finishing slippers and working with machines and hand tools within production.
• What benefits are common?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, work clothing, and compensation for inconvenient working hours.
• How has the salary developed?
  - Salaries have increased by approximately 10% over the past three years, from 27,700 SEK in 2022 to 30 400 SEK in 2024.