How much does a Graders make

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  2. Graders

Graders

35 600 kr

Construction machine operators etc.

33 100 - 37 400 kr / month

Women earn 99% of what men do.

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What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Graders

Average salary 35 600 kr
Males 35 600 kr
Females 35 200 kr
1 Likes 0 Comments 23 Vacant jobs ->

What does a motor grader operator do? – Tasks and work environment

A motor grader operator is responsible for driving and maneuvering graders during construction, maintenance, and repair of roads as well as other civil engineering projects. Tasks include leveling and shaping surfaces, as well as laying gravel, sand, or asphalt with high precision. The work is often performed outdoors, sometimes under challenging weather conditions and on various terrains. A grader operator regularly collaborates with other machine operators, supervisors, and contractors to ensure that road projects progress according to schedule and safety standards.

Salary development over time

The salary of a motor grader operator has shown a stable and slightly positive trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 34,700 SEK per month, increasing to 34 900 in 2023. For 2024, the average monthly salary is 35 600, representing an increase of approximately 2 % from the previous year. This salary growth reflects a continued high demand for skilled construction machinery operators in the construction and civil engineering sector. Market needs for experienced operators and technological advancements in machinery have contributed to maintaining high salary levels. Regional differences, education level, and work experience also influence salary levels.

Motor grader operator salary – comprehensive overview

  • Average salary: 35 600 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 33,100 SEK/month (man, private sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
  • Highest salary: 37,400 SEK/month (woman, regional sector, high school education up to 2 years)
  • Hourly wage: 214 SEK
  • Gender differences: Women earn 99% of what men do (35 200 SEK compared to 35 600 SEK)
  • Regional differences: Salary variations occur depending on employer and sector

Education and qualifications

To work as a motor grader operator, a high school diploma with a focus on construction and machinery is usually required, followed by specialized training in civil engineering machinery. Practical experience is highly valued, and many employers seek documented experience in operating various types of machinery. Additional certifications and courses can increase employability and enable higher salaries.

  • High school education: Construction and civil engineering program, machinery operation training (about 3 years)
  • Certifications: Vocational certificates for graders from industry organizations
  • Internship: On-the-job training during education
  • Prerequisites: Driver's license B, sometimes also C
  • Further training: Courses in machinery safety and work environment

Motor grader operators often work under time pressure and must adapt to weather conditions, making flexibility and problem-solving skills important qualities. It is not uncommon to work at various locations and sometimes during inconvenient hours, especially during intensive construction seasons.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Many grader operators are covered by collective agreements and are offered benefits such as per diems for work at different locations, extra compensation for unsociable hours, wellness allowances, as well as pension and insurance coverage. Opportunities for further training and skills development are often included.

Challenges and competition

The job market for grader operators is characterized by a paradoxical situation where there are both recruitment difficulties and some attrition from the profession. Despite large national job opportunities, regional variations in demand exist. Challenges include staying updated on technological developments and safety requirements, as well as managing work environment risks such as noise, vibrations, and long working hours. Competition for the most attractive positions can be high, especially in regions with major infrastructure projects. Those who are flexible and willing to work at different locations have good employment prospects.

Tips for aspiring motor grader operators

To succeed as a grader operator, it is beneficial to be meticulous and have a good sense of technology, as machine handling requires precision and responsibility. Practical aptitude facilitates quick problem-solving in the field. Flexibility and adaptability are also important, as tasks and work sites can vary greatly. Teamwork skills are key, since the work often takes place in teams where communication and safety are crucial. Being able to work under pressure helps during tight deadlines or challenging weather conditions. Finally, an interest in machinery and technology provides a solid foundation for enjoying and developing in the profession.

Key facts about motor grader operators

  • Education level: High school with machinery operation specialization
  • Work environment: Outdoors, often at mobile work sites
  • Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide
  • Typical employment form: Full-time, often seasonal
  • Special skills: Machinery handling and safety routines

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years in the profession, many grader operators have the opportunity to advance to supervisory roles, become instructors, or specialize in advanced machinery and techniques. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast for civil engineering machinery operators, demand for the profession is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, but job opportunities are still considered plentiful. Those who pursue further training in machinery safety, work management, or machinery service can broaden their career options further. With 379 registered job vacancies in the field, it is clear that the need for competent grader operators remains high.

Frequently asked questions about motor grader operators

  • What does a motor grader operator earn?
    - The average salary is 35 600 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 214 SEK.
  • Are there gender differences in salary?
    - Yes, women earn 99% of what men do in the profession.
  • What education is required to become a motor grader operator?
    - High school education with machinery operation specialization and vocational certificates are usually required.
  • What does the job market look like?
    - Opportunities for employment are plentiful, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
  • What is the highest and lowest salary for a motor grader operator?
    - The highest salary is 37 400 SEK, and the lowest is 33 100 SEK, depending on sector and education.
  • What benefits are common?
    - Per diems, overtime pay, wellness allowances, as well as pension and insurance are common benefits.
  • Are there regional salary differences?
    - Yes, salaries can vary depending on employer and region.

Richard Andersson

Richard Andersson - 2025-07-10 23:34:33

Occupation
Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Graders is 37400 kr. This salary belongs to a woman working in the Regional sector with a upper secondary education, maximum 2 years. The highest salary for a man in this profession is 37000 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Graders is 33100 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Privately employed officials. The lowest salary for a woman in this profession is 34700 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
18-24 103% 31100 kr 31900 kr
25-34 98% 34000 kr 35300 kr
35-44 99% 35600 kr 36700 kr
45-54 36400 kr 37800 kr
55-64 33900 kr 35300 kr
65-68 33400 kr 34700 kr
Snitt 99% 34400 kr 35600 kr
* Empty columns indicate that the statistical data was insufficient to allow for a statistically significant conclusion.
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession Graders has the SSYK code 8342, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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