Oven set, ceramic

What does a ceramic kiln setter do? – Tasks and work environment

A ceramic kiln setter works with loading, monitoring, and optimizing the firing process in ceramic kilns. The profession involves carefully placing ceramic products such as tiles, porcelain, or art objects into industrial kilns, following precise firing curves, and ensuring the temperature remains correct for each material. The work environment is often industrial, with high temperatures, dust, and noise, requiring good physical condition and great attention to detail. It often includes quality control, basic maintenance of equipment, and collaboration with other operators and technicians to ensure a smooth production flow.

Salary development over time

The profession of ceramic kiln setter has experienced a clear salary increase in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 34,400 SEK, which decreased slightly to 33 700 SEK in 2023, before rising sharply to 37 100 SEK in 2024. The total increase between 2023 and 2024 is approximately 10%, reflecting a notable rise possibly due to increased demand or adjustments in collective agreements. Salaries have also been influenced by skill requirements and developments within Swedish industry, where specialized operators are becoming increasingly valuable. The trend indicates that the profession has become more attractive salary-wise, especially for those with post-secondary education or specialized knowledge in ceramics production.

Ceramic kiln setter salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 37 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 35,400 SEK/month (female, high school education)
• Highest salary: 39,000 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage (average): 223 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 95% of what men do (35,700 SEK vs. 37 400 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data missing

Education and qualifications

To work as a ceramic kiln setter, a high school education with a focus on industry, technology, or crafts is usually required, often supplemented with on-the-job training. Many employers also seek experience with industrial processes and technical skills related to material handling. Shorter post-secondary courses or specialized classes in ceramics and firing processes can provide a competitive advantage, especially for more advanced tasks.

• High school education: Technical or industrial programs, 3 years
• Post-secondary education: Short vocational training or courses in ceramics and firing processes
• Internship: On-the-job training is common and often advantageous
• Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of technology and mathematics
• Tips for choosing: Interest in materials science and precision appreciated by employers

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for ceramic kiln setters include collective agreement-based allowances for unsocial hours, wellness contributions, and work clothing. Many employers also offer opportunities for further training, subsidized lunches, and access to occupational health services. In some cases, bonus systems and extra days off may be available, especially within larger industries.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a ceramic kiln setter is relatively limited, mainly due to the specialization of the profession and the fact that few people have the right skills or experience. A challenge, however, is that the labor market depends on the development of the Swedish ceramics industry, which in turn is influenced by economic cycles and automation. Since the job often requires shift work and handling heavy lifting, the work environment can be physically demanding. At the same time, technological developments may impose new requirements for digital skills and the ability to quickly adapt to changing production processes.

Tips for those wishing to become a ceramic kiln setter

To succeed as a ceramic kiln setter, it is good to combine technical interest with great precision and a sense of responsibility. Someone resilient with good physical condition will find it easier to handle the physical demands of the job, especially during shift work and heavy lifting. Being attentive and detail-oriented is a strength when it comes to avoiding mistakes during setup and firing. Flexibility and the ability to collaborate with other operators facilitate teamwork and contribute to smooth production. Last but not least, a willingness to learn new techniques and stay updated on firing processes and material development is crucial to remain attractive in the job market.

Key facts about Ceramic kiln setters

• Education level: High school, often supplemented with internships or short courses
• Work environment: Industrial, often with high temperatures and shift work
• Typical employment: Full-time, often in shifts
• Demand: Specialized and limited, with 1,437 available jobs in the profession
• Special skills: Materials science and experience with firing processes

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a ceramic kiln setter, opportunities may open for advanced roles such as process manager, team leader, or supervisor within production. Some choose to further their education in materials technology or production management, moving towards more qualified positions in the industry. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, there is no specific assessment for ceramic kiln setters, but within the broader group of process and machine operators in glass and ceramics, there are 1,437 available jobs, indicating some demand. However, the opportunities are affected by the development of Swedish industry and automation levels, so acquiring additional skills can be beneficial for career advancement.

Frequently asked questions about Ceramic kiln setters

• What does a ceramic kiln setter earn?
  - The average salary is 37 100 SEK/month, with variation depending on experience, education, and employer.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn 95% of what men do in the profession, which corresponds to 35,700 SEK for women and 37 400 SEK for men.
• What education is required to become a ceramic kiln setter?
  - High school education with a focus on technology or industry, supplemented with internship or specialized courses, is most common.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Detailed statistics are lacking, but salary levels may vary depending on the region and employer.
• What are the main challenges in the profession?
  - Physically demanding environment, shift work, and the need for technical skills are some of the main challenges.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The outlook is uncertain due to limited data, but there are some available jobs within the profession.
• What is the highest salary for a ceramic kiln setter?
  - The highest salary is 39,000 SEK/month and applies to a male private sector employee with post-secondary education.