- Salary statistics
- Wood craftsmen
Wood craftsmen
30 400 - 30 900 kr / month
Hantverksyrken
Salary progression Wood craftsmen
What does a woodworker do? – Tasks and work environment
A woodworker works with creating, repairing, and maintaining objects in wood, often focusing on craftsmanship, art objects, or functional items. Tasks can include carpentry, fine woodworking, restoration of older wooden items, and making custom orders. The work often takes place in small workshops, educational settings, or within craft studios, where precision and material sensitivity are crucial. The work environment is characterized by manual labor, meticulousness, and creative problem-solving, often involving both independent tasks and collaboration with other artisans.
Salary development over time
The salary for woodworkers has varied somewhat over recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 34,382 SEK, followed by a slight increase to 34 662 SEK in 2023. In 2024, however, the average salary has been adjusted downward to 30 900 SEK, representing a decrease of approximately 10.8% compared to the previous year. This decline can be explained by changes in the labor market, where demand for craft professions varies depending on economic conditions and societal needs. Salary development is also influenced by many woodworkers working in small-scale operations or on project basis, which can lead to significant individual variation.
Woodworker salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 30 900 SEK/month
- Lowest/Highest salary: Data not available
- Hourly wage: 186 SEK
- Gender differences: Data not available
- Regional differences: Data not available
Education and qualifications
The path to becoming a woodworker often starts with a vocational program in woodworking at high school, but many also choose technical college or specialized craft training. Practical experience is essential, and it is common to combine formal education with apprenticeships or internships with experienced artisans. Broad material knowledge and attention to detail are important qualifications, and some specializations may require additional certifications or courses.
- High school education: Vocational program in crafts, specializing in wood (3 years)
- Technical college: Specialized training in crafts or furniture carpentry (2–3 years)
- Internships: Apprenticeships or practical periods with established artisans
- Courses: Advanced courses in woodworking techniques, design, or restoration
- Prerequisites: Interest in craftsmanship and material knowledge
Many woodworkers develop their own signature styles or techniques over time, which can lead to their works becoming sought-after collectibles or used in exhibitions and public spaces. Combining traditional craftsmanship with modern design has become a growing niche that attracts both clients and collaborators.
Common benefits and compensations
Woodworkers are often offered benefits such as flexible working hours, opportunities for personal creation, and access to well-equipped workshops. Some employers provide wellness allowances, work clothing, and insurance, especially within larger organizations or educational sectors. Self-employed individuals have the freedom to manage their assignments but are also responsible for pensions and insurance themselves.
Competition and challenges
Competition within the profession can be significant, especially since many work as freelancers or in small companies where assignments are project-based. Digitalization and cheaper mass production of wooden items pose high demands on the artisan's unique skills and ability to offer customized solutions. Establishing oneself in the market requires patience and a good network, while there is also a need to constantly innovate and adapt offerings. For those working in schools or larger institutions, competition may be less intense, but pedagogical skills and formal qualifications are often required.
Tips for aspiring woodworkers
To succeed as a woodworker, it is beneficial to have a genuine interest in wood and material knowledge from the start. Precision is a key trait, as much of the work involves accuracy and detailed craftsmanship. Creativity helps in finding personal expressions and solutions for unique projects, while patience is needed to complete larger projects or learn new techniques. Seeking internships and collaborating with other artisans provide valuable experience and networking opportunities. Continually developing skills through courses or self-study can also be crucial, especially in a field where tradition meets innovation. Finally, the ability to work independently is as important as enjoying working in creative teams, as assignments often vary in scope and working style.
Key facts about Woodworkers
- Average salary: 30 900 SEK/month
- Hourly wage: 186 SEK
- Education level: High school or technical college
- Work environment: Workshop, school, or private studio
- Available jobs: 341 within the profession
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession, a woodworker can develop into more advanced craft roles, such as specialized craftsperson, instrument maker, or established self-employed within woodworking. There are also opportunities to work in education as a craft teacher or supervisor, especially if complemented with pedagogical training. The employment service assesses that demand for qualified craftsmen remains relatively stable, although competition can be fierce in certain niches. According to recent statistics, there were 341 available jobs in the field, indicating ongoing need for skilled woodworkers. Expanding expertise in areas such as design, restoration, or modern techniques can improve job prospects.
Frequently asked questions about Woodworkers
- What does a woodworker earn?
- The average salary is 30 900 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 186 SEK. - What education is required to become a woodworker?
- Typically, high school vocational programs or technical colleges are required. - Are there many job opportunities for woodworkers?
- Currently, there are 341 available jobs within the profession. - What are the most common work environments for woodworkers?
- Most work in workshops, schools, or private studios, often with both independent and collaborative projects. - What does the future look like for woodworkers?
- The outlook is stable, especially for those combining traditional craft with modern design or education. - What personal qualities are important for the profession?
- Precision, creativity, patience, and independence are especially valuable qualities for woodworkers.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 30400 kr | 30900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 30400 kr | 30900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 30400 kr | 30900 kr |
About the data
All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.
All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.
Profession Wood craftsmen has the SSYK code 7319, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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