What does a Vägmålare do? – Tasks and Work Environment
A Vägmålare is responsible for applying road markings such as lines, symbols, and crosswalks on roads, parking areas, and other traffic surfaces. The work is usually performed outdoors and requires precision as well as an understanding of traffic flow and safety regulations. Vägmålare often work in teams and use specialized machinery, paints, and tools to ensure markings are durable and clear. The work environment is characterized by varying weather conditions, working near busy roads, and sometimes irregular hours to minimize traffic disruptions.
Salary development over time
The salary for Vägmålare has shown a steady upward trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 35,600 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 38 400 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 7.9%. For 2024, the average salary continued to rise to 38 700 SEK, a slightly more modest increase of 0.8% compared to the previous year. This development reflects a stable demand for the profession, with wages influenced by inflation and an increased need for infrastructure maintenance. The shortage of qualified Vägmålare and increased infrastructure projects have helped keep wages high, although the growth rate has plateaued somewhat in the past year.
Vägmålare salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 38 700 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 26,800 SEK/month (female, public sector, low education level)
- Highest salary: 42,100 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education less than 3 years)
- Hourly wage: 233 SEK
- Gender differences: Women earn 91% of what men do (men: 38 900 SEK, women: 35 300 SEK)
- Regional differences: Data not available
Education and qualifications
To work as a Vägmålare, a high school education in construction and civil engineering is usually required, followed by practical training or internal training in road marking. Experience in construction work and a good understanding of safety procedures are important qualifications. Some employers also offer certification courses and further training to meet industry requirements.
- High school education: Construction and civil engineering program (3 years)
- Professional introduction: Practical training or trainee programs with contracting companies
- Certifications: Courses in safety and machinery operation
- Prerequisites: Driver's license B, good physical condition, and teamwork skills
- Further education: Industry-specific advanced training and certifications
Vägmålare often need to work at night or early mornings to minimize traffic disruptions. This requires flexibility and the ability to quickly adapt to different schedules and weather conditions. Many appreciate the variation and seeing tangible results of their work every day.
Common benefits and compensations
Vägmålare are often covered by collective agreements that include holiday pay, overtime premiums for inconvenient hours, and sometimes per diems for work in other locations. Benefits such as work clothing, wellness allowances, and insurance are also common, especially with larger employers within the contracting industry.
Competition and challenges
The labor market for Vägmålare is characterized by a balance between supply and demand, but demand is expected to increase over the next five years. A challenge is the physically demanding nature of the work and exposure to weather and traffic, which impose high safety and work environment standards. The industry also exhibits a clear gender gap in salary and representation, with women still being a minority. Technological advances in road marking and new materials mean professionals need ongoing training to meet industry standards.
Tips for those who want to become Vägmålare
To succeed as a Vägmålare, it is good to be precise and have a strong attention to detail, as the work requires accuracy when applying road markings. Flexibility is an important trait since tasks often occur at inconvenient times and in varying weather conditions. The ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues is crucial, especially on larger projects where multiple people need to work together safely. Good safety awareness is also necessary, as work is often performed near busy roads. For those who are proactive and eager to learn new techniques, there are good opportunities for further development within the profession. Finally, physical endurance and the ability to handle monotonous work are important factors for thriving and progressing as a Vägmålare.
Key facts about Vägmålare
- Education level: High school education in construction and civil engineering
- Work environment: Outdoors, often near roads and in teams
- Typical work form: Full-time, sometimes shifts and night work
- Demand: Moderate, expected to increase in the next five years
- Special skills: Machinery operation and safety routines
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a Vägmålare, opportunities may open to take on more responsibility, such as supervisor or site manager for larger projects. Some choose to further their education in civil engineering or traffic planning to broaden career options. According to the Employment Service's forecast, the outlook for construction workers, including Vägmålare, is moderate today but expected to increase over five years. Currently, there are 379 job openings in the profession, indicating a stable job market. Increased investment in infrastructure and road maintenance drives demand, while technological innovations may create new specialized roles within the profession.
Frequently asked questions about Vägmålare
- What is the average salary of a Vägmålare?
- A Vägmålare has an average salary of 38 700 SEK per month.
- What are the gender differences in Vägmålare salaries?
- Men earn on average 38 900 SEK and women 35 300 SEK, which means women earn 91% of men's salaries.
- What education is required to become a Vägmålare?
- Typically, a high school education in construction and civil engineering along with practical training or internal education.
- What is the work environment like for Vägmålare?
- Work is conducted outdoors, often near busy roads, involving physical labor and teamwork.
- Are there good future prospects for Vägmålare?
- Yes, demand is expected to increase over the next five years according to the Employment Service.
- What are the highest and lowest salaries for Vägmålare?
- The highest salary is 42,100 SEK, and the lowest is 26,800 SEK per month.
- How many job openings are available for Vägmålare?
- Currently, there are 379 available jobs within the trade group.
