Maintenance manager, metallurgy

What does a maintenance manager in metallurgy do? – Tasks and work environment

A maintenance manager in metallurgy is responsible for leading and coordinating maintenance work at facilities where metal extraction and processing occur. Tasks include strategic and operational work to ensure operational reliability, plan preventive maintenance, and optimize machinery performance. The role involves leading technicians and maintenance staff, preparing budgets, monitoring key figures, and developing routines for work environment and safety. The work environment is often industrial and may involve work in production-related settings with high safety requirements, including both office and field work.

Salary development over time

The salary for a maintenance manager in metallurgy has shown a stable and clearly upward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 42,700 SEK per month, increasing to 44 400 SEK in 2023 and reaching 47 400 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 11% over the period, with a particularly noticeable rise between 2023 and 2024. This salary development reflects increased demand for technical skills in the industry, along with technological changes and higher requirements for maintenance efficiency, which have contributed to elevating the profession's status and compensation levels. Women have experienced slightly lower salary growth than men, which is reflected in current gender pay differences.

Maintenance manager, metallurgy salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 47 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 36,900 SEK/month (female, public sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Highest salary: 48,500 SEK/month (male, private sector, unspecified education)
• Hourly wage (average): 285 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 44 900 SEK/month (93% of men's salary, men: 48,500 SEK/month)
• Regional differences: No specific regional salary data available

Education and qualifications

To work as a maintenance manager in metallurgy, a university degree in engineering, mechanical engineering, or industrial economics is usually required, often with specialization in metallurgy or maintenance. Many also have supplementary training in leadership and work environment, along with industrial production experience. Practical experience and good knowledge of process industry are highly meritorious.

• University engineering degree: 3 years, preferably focused on mechanical engineering/metallurgy
• YH (vocational) education: 2–3 years in maintenance technology or industrial production
• Leadership training: Short or longer courses, often required for managerial roles
• Internship/work experience: Several years of industry experience are often required
• Certifications: For example, in work environment or maintenance systems, are advantageous

Common benefits and compensation

Maintenance managers in metallurgy are often offered competitive benefits beyond salary, such as pension schemes, bonus programs, flexible hours, and wellness contributions. Other common compensations include opportunities for further education, corporate health services, and sometimes company cars or favorable travel and accommodation agreements when working in other locations.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as maintenance manager in metallurgy is moderate, but the role demands high technical competence and leadership skills. Challenges include managing rapid technological changes, digitalization of maintenance processes, and ensuring high safety and efficiency in production. Recruiting qualified personnel can be difficult, especially in regions with high demand for technical skills. Gender equality and reducing pay gaps are additional challenges for the industry. At the same time, there are good opportunities to influence and develop operations in the long term.

Tips for those who want to become a maintenance manager in metallurgy

To succeed as a maintenance manager in metallurgy, it is good to combine technical curiosity with strong leadership and team engagement skills. Being communicative and clear facilitates collaboration between different professional groups and creates a safe work environment. An analytical mindset makes strategic decisions regarding maintenance and investments easier, while problem-solving skills help during emergency stops and production changes. Flexibility is important, as the work often involves quick adjustments and unforeseen challenges. Gaining experience in process industry while staying updated on new technology provides a strong advantage. Finally, long-term thinking is essential for creating sustainable and efficient maintenance solutions.

Key facts about Maintenance Manager, Metallurgy

• Average salary: 47 400 SEK/month
• Salary range: 36,900–48,500 SEK/month
• Education: University engineering degree or YH education, 2–3 years
• Gender differences: Women earn 93% of men's salary
• Work environment: Industrial, combined office and production

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years as a maintenance manager in metallurgy, there are good opportunities for advancement, such as to production manager, technical manager, or specialist roles within maintenance and process development. Further education in leadership or project management can open additional doors to executive roles. The Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts for engineers and technicians in mining technology and metallurgy show that there are 564 available jobs in the field, but due to limited data, no specific future outlook is provided for this role. Overall, a stable demand for technical skills in industry, especially within process and metallurgy sectors, is observed.

Frequently asked questions about Maintenance Manager, Metallurgy

• What does a maintenance manager in metallurgy earn?
  - The average salary is 47 400 SEK per month, with a range between 36,900 and 48,500 SEK.
• What are the gender differences in salary for maintenance managers in metallurgy?
  - Women have an average salary of 44 900 SEK, which corresponds to 93% of men's average salary of 48,500 SEK.
• What education is required to become a maintenance manager in metallurgy?
  - Usually, a university engineering degree or YH education in engineering, along with industry experience, is required.
• What is the job market like for maintenance managers in metallurgy?
  - There are 564 available jobs, but no specific forecast for this role.
• What are the most common benefits for maintenance managers in metallurgy?
  - Pension schemes, bonus programs, wellness contributions, and further training are common benefits.
• Are there regional salary differences for the profession?
  - No detailed regional salary data is currently available.
• What career paths are available after some years in the profession?
  - Opportunities include progressing to production manager, technical manager, or specialist roles within the industry.