Setups, machine tools

What does an assembly technician in machine tools do? – Tasks and work environment

An assembly technician in machine tools is responsible for installing, adjusting, and setting up machines used in metalworking within the industry. Tasks include changing tools, ensuring machines are properly calibrated, and monitoring production to ensure the quality of the manufactured material. Precision and technical skills are required, as machines are often advanced and minor faults can lead to production stoppages or quality issues. The work environment is typically industrial, often in factories or workshops where noise levels can be high, and safety routines are important to minimize the risk of accidents.

Salary development over time

The salary for an assembly technician in machine tools has seen steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,000 SEK per month, increasing to 34 000 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average has risen further to 35 200 SEK. This development corresponds to a total increase of approximately 6.7% over three years. The increase can partly be explained by continued high demand for skilled machine operators and a labor shortage in the industry, which has driven up wages. At the same time, technological development and automation influence the future of the profession, potentially leading to changes in the long term.

Assembly technician, machine tools salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 35 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,400 SEK/month (female, private sector)
• Highest salary: 36,100 SEK/month (male, post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 212 SEK/hour
• Women's average salary: 34 100 SEK/month (96 % of men's salary)
• Men's average salary: 35 400 SEK/month

Education and qualifications

To work as an assembly technician in machine tools, a high school education with an industrial, technical, or similar focus is usually required. Many employers also value practical experience from workshop environments and sometimes supplementary courses in mechanical engineering or CNC. Certifications and further training can improve employment prospects and salary levels.

• High school education: Industrial technology program (3 years)
• Supplementary courses: Mechanical engineering, CNC, automation
• Practical training: Apprenticeship or workshop internship
• Certifications: Opportunities for industry-specific certifications
• Prerequisites: Technical interest and problem-solving skills

Common benefits and compensations

Many assembly technicians in machine tools are covered by collective agreements that include benefits such as overtime pay, shift allowances, wellness contributions, and occupational health services. It is also common to have occupational pensions, work clothing, and sometimes extra vacation days or bonuses based on production results.

Competition and challenges

The profession as an assembly technician in machine tools is characterized by high demand and a shortage of qualified workers, making competition for jobs relatively low. However, demand is expected to decline over the next five years, mainly due to increased automation and technological development in the industry. This means that a broad technical competence and adaptability will become increasingly important to meet future requirements. At the same time, increased demands for digital skills and machine knowledge may make it harder for those who do not continuously upgrade their skills to remain competitive.

Tips for those who want to become an assembly technician in machine tools

To succeed as an assembly technician in machine tools, it helps to be precise and have a genuine interest in technology. Developing problem-solving skills is crucial, as unexpected machine breakdowns are common and require quick action. Flexibility and willingness to learn new systems and machines provide major advantages, especially as technology evolves rapidly. Being communicative and able to collaborate effectively with colleagues makes the work easier, as many tasks require teamwork. Engagement and responsibility are valued by employers, particularly during shift work and under time pressure. Gaining practical experience and networking within the industry during your education can open doors to employment. Finally, being proactive and seeking further training or certifications when opportunities arise is highly beneficial.

Key facts about assembly technicians in machine tools

• Salary range: 31,400–36,100 SEK/month
• Education level: High school education, often with a technical focus
• Work environment: Industrial workshop environment, often shift work
• Demand: Great job opportunities today, but declining over five years
• Number of job openings: 1,437 within the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After several years of experience as an assembly technician in machine tools, opportunities can open for roles such as supervisor, production technician, or quality manager in the industry. Some choose to specialize in CNC technology or further educate themselves in automation and machine programming. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that the job market for machine setters and machine operators in metalworking is currently good, but demand is expected to decrease over five years due to increased automation and technological advancements. Despite this, there are still many available positions, offering good opportunities for those willing to develop their skills.

Frequently asked questions about assembly technicians in machine tools

• What does an assembly technician in machine tools earn?
  - The average salary is 35 200 SEK per month, with a range between 31,400 SEK and 36,100 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What education is required to become an assembly technician in machine tools?
  - High school education with a technical or industrial focus is most common, often supplemented with practical training and courses in mechanical engineering.
• What is the job market like for assembly technicians in machine tools?
  - Demand is currently high with 1,437 job openings, but it is expected to decline over the next five years.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 34 100 SEK per month, which is 96% of men's salaries.
• What benefits are common in the profession?
  - Benefits include collective agreements, overtime pay, wellness allowances, and occupational pensions.
• Can one advance within the profession?
  - Yes, opportunities include roles such as supervisor, production technician, or specialization in CNC and automation.
• How does technological development affect the profession?
  - Automation and digitalization increase the demands on technical skills and may, in the long term, reduce the need for traditional assemblers.