Wool sorter

What does an Ullsorterare do? – Tasks and work environment

An Ullsorterare works with inspecting, classifying, and sorting raw wool according to quality, fiber length, and purity before it proceeds to further processing within the textile industry. The work often involves handling large volumes of wool, both manually and with the help of machines, requiring a keen eye for detail and good knowledge of different wool types. The work environment is typically industrial, often in larger textile factories or facilities where wool is processed. The surroundings can be dusty and noisy, which demands protective equipment and ergonomic workstations.

Salary development over time

The salary for an Ullsorterare has steadily increased over recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 27,700 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 29 600 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has risen further to 30 400 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 9.7% over the three-year period. This positive trend can partly be explained by an increased focus on sustainable materials and a certain demand for specialized skills within the textile industry. At the same time, salary levels remain relatively stable compared to other industrial jobs, reflecting the narrow niche of the profession and its dependence on the development of the textile sector. Salary increases have been slightly higher than inflation, indicating a cautious increase in demand for qualified Ullsorterare, even though the profession is small in numbers.

Ullsorterare salary – complete 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 (average): 183 SEK/hour
• Women's salary: 29 700 SEK/month (95% of men's salary)
• Men's salary: 31 200 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Highest salaries are found within the regional sector

Education and qualifications

To work as an Ullsorterare, a high school education with a focus on textiles, industry, or crafts is usually required. Many employers also value practical experience from the textile industry, and internal training at the workplace is common. Specialized courses in materials science and quality control can provide advantages during employment, although formal requirements vary among employers.

• High school education: Textile, industry, or craft programs (3 years)
• Practical experience: Practical experience from textile production is appreciated
• Internal training: Often introductory and mentoring at the workplace
• Courses: Materials science, quality control, and machine handling are meritorious
• Prerequisites: Precision, good eyesight, and interest in textile materials

Common benefits and compensations

The most common benefits for Ullsorterare include collective agreement insurances, occupational pension, and sometimes wellness allowances. In some cases, work clothes and subsidized lunches are also offered. Shift work may occur, often with additional pay on top of the base salary.

Competition and challenges

Competition for jobs as an Ullsorterare is relatively low, but the supply of jobs is also limited since the profession is narrow and there are few workplaces. Technological changes and automation within the textile industry can affect demand, while experience and specialized knowledge about wool provide competitive advantages. Challenges in the profession include physically demanding tasks, monotonous work environment, and risks of allergies or dust-related discomfort. Precision and patience are essential qualities for success and long-term satisfaction in the role.

Tips for those who want to become an Ullsorterare

To succeed as an Ullsorterare, it is good to have a keen eye for details, as sorting requires careful assessment of wool quality. Being resilient and having good physical condition facilitates the work, which is often repetitive and physically demanding. Showing interest in textile materials and a willingness to learn new machines or tasks is appreciated by employers. Flexibility is a strength, as tasks can vary between seasons and orders. Being able to work well in a team and collaborate effectively with colleagues is important, as production often occurs in groups. Responsibility and the ability to work independently are also advantageous, especially during quality controls and reporting. Finally, being meticulous about order and safety is important, as the work environment can be challenging.

Key facts about Ullsorterare

• Salary range: 29,400–32,200 SEK/month
• Education level: High school education (3 years) recommended
• Work environment: Industrial, often noisy and dusty
• Available jobs in the profession: 1,437 positions
• Gender salary differences: Women earn 95% of men's salary

Career paths and outlook

After a few years as an Ullsorterare, opportunities exist to advance to supervisory roles, such as foreman or quality manager within textile production. Some choose to specialize further in material analysis or pursue additional training as machine operators and technicians, which can lead to higher salaries and greater responsibilities. According to the Swedish Employment Service's forecasts, no specific assessment is available for the profession, but within the entire group of machine operators in textile, leather, and fur industries, 1,437 jobs are reported, indicating some demand. Since the profession is narrow and strongly influenced by the development of the textile industry, future prospects can vary, but specialized skills and experience are always valued in the job market.

Frequently asked questions about Ullsorterare

• What does an Ullsorterare earn?
  - An Ullsorterare has an average salary of 30 400 SEK per month.
• What is the highest salary for an Ullsorterare?
  - The highest salary is 32,200 SEK per month and belongs to a man in the regional sector.
• How do gender differences look in the Ullsorterare's salary?
  - Women earn on average 29 700 SEK, which is 95% of men's salary of 31 200 SEK.
• What education is required to become an Ullsorterare?
  - High school education in textiles, industry, or crafts is recommended, along with practical experience or work within the textile industry.
• What is the job market like for Ullsorterare?
  - There are 1,437 available jobs in the profession, but competition is low since the occupation is narrow.
• What qualities are important for an Ullsorterare?
  - Accuracy, endurance, good physical condition, and interest in textile materials are important qualities.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, the highest salaries are found within the regional sector.