Oven attendant, glass, ceramics

What does a furnace operator in glass and ceramics do? – Tasks and work environment

A furnace operator in glass and ceramics is responsible for monitoring, controlling, and maintaining furnaces used in the production of glass and ceramic products. Tasks include loading raw materials into the furnace, adjusting temperatures and timings according to product specifications, and inspecting the process to ensure quality and safety. It is also common to perform basic maintenance and troubleshoot equipment. The work environment is characterized by high temperatures, noise, and sometimes dusty conditions, requiring protective gear and precision. The work is often performed in shifts, both day and night, and can involve physically demanding tasks.

Salary development over time

The salary for furnace operators in glass and ceramics has shown a clear increase in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 34,400 SEK/month, which increased slightly to 33 700 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen more significantly to 37 100 SEK, representing a roughly 10% increase from 2022 to 2024. This positive trend can be linked to increased demand for skilled labor in the industry, as well as a shortage of experienced furnace operators driving up salary levels. Inflation and general adjustments in the labor market have also affected salary development, but the specialized nature of the profession makes the demand for the right skills particularly influential on salary levels.

Furnace operator, glass, ceramics salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 37 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 35,400 SEK/month (women), 36,900 SEK/month (men)
• Highest salary: 35,700 SEK/month (women), 39,000 SEK/month (men)
• Hourly wage (average): 223 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 95% of what men do
• Regional differences: Variations may occur depending on industry location and demand

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a furnace operator in glass and ceramics often goes through a vocational upper secondary program in industrial technology, but many employers also value practical experience and internal training. Technical interest, accuracy, and the ability to work according to instructions are key qualities. An introductory training at the workplace is often required to learn how to handle specific machines and processes.

• Upper secondary education: Industrial technology program, approx. 3 years
• Practical training: Workplace-based internships or apprenticeship programs are common
• Internal training: Introduction and further training at the workplace
• Prerequisites: Good physical health, technical interest, and precision
• Tips for choosing: Select schools with a focus on industry or materials technology

Common benefits and compensations

Furnace operators in glass and ceramics are often covered by collective agreements that entitle them to shift allowances, overtime pay, and extra vacation days. Other benefits may include wellness contributions, work clothing, and access to occupational health services. In some cases, bonuses or profit sharing are also offered depending on production outcomes.

Competition and challenges

The profession of furnace operator in glass and ceramics competes with other technical and industrial roles for labor, especially in regions where the industry is well established. One of the main challenges is that the work environment can be physically demanding and exposed to heat and noise, requiring high standards of occupational safety. Additionally, continuous updates on technical changes and new safety routines are necessary. The shortage of younger workers entering the industry may affect recruitment and skills supply in the long term. Meanwhile, automation and digitalization could change the nature of the work, necessitating new skills development.

Tips for those who want to become a furnace operator in glass and ceramics

To succeed as a furnace operator in glass and ceramics, it is beneficial to develop both technical understanding and practical problem-solving skills. A careful approach helps to detect deviations early and prevent quality issues. Flexibility and the ability to work in shifts are important, as production often runs around the clock. Good physical health facilitates the more physically demanding parts of the job, and teamwork skills are crucial since many tasks are performed in teams. Curiosity about materials and manufacturing processes makes it easier to quickly learn new tasks and adapt to technological changes. Resilience and the ability to handle responsibility under pressure are also valuable, especially during downtime or unexpected events.

Key facts about furnace operators in glass and ceramics

• Salary range: 35,400–39,000 SEK/month
• Educational level: Vocational upper secondary education (industrial technology program) or equivalent
• Work environment: Shift work, high temperatures, noisy environment
• Demand: 1,437 job openings in spring 2024
• Gender salary gap: Women earn 95% of what men do

Career paths and future outlook

A furnace operator in glass and ceramics can, after 3–5 years, advance to leadership roles such as team leader, process manager, or production planner, especially with further education or proven experience. There are also opportunities to specialize in quality control or maintenance. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate a steady need for process and machine operators within the industry, although there is no specific assessment for this niche. With 1,437 job openings in spring 2024, the job market is relatively healthy, but competition for the most attractive positions may occur. Automation and technological development could influence tasks in the future, making continuous training important for long-term career development.

Frequently asked questions about furnace operators in glass and ceramics

• What does a furnace operator in glass and ceramics earn?
  - The average salary is 37 100 SEK/month, with a range from 35,400 to 39,000 SEK/month depending on experience, education, and gender.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 95% of what men do within the profession.
• What education is required to become a furnace operator?
  - A vocational upper secondary education in industrial technology is most common, often supplemented with practical training and internal courses.
• What does the work environment look like?
  - The work environment often involves shift work, high temperatures, and noise, requiring protective gear.
• What are the future prospects?
  - There is steady demand within the profession, with 1,437 job openings in spring 2024.
• What benefits are common?
  - Collective agreements, shift allowances, overtime pay, wellness contributions, and work clothing are typical benefits.
• Can one advance within the profession?
  - Yes, opportunities exist to become a team leader, process manager, or specialize in quality control.