Weaving pliers

What does a weaving loom operator do? – Tasks and working environment

A weaving loom operator is responsible for monitoring, adjusting, and maintaining machines used in weaving and textile production, with particular focus on bleaching, dyeing, and washing textiles. Tasks include starting and stopping machines, checking process parameters, identifying and correcting deviations, and ensuring that quality standards are met for the finished material. The environment is often industrial, with noise, humidity, and chemicals, requiring precision, safety awareness, and adherence to routines. Work is typically performed in shifts and may involve both independent tasks and teamwork.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for weaving loom operators has shown a steady but slow increase. In 2022, the average salary was 26,600 SEK per month. The following year saw a marginal increase to 26 500 SEK, representing a slight decrease of 0.4 %. Between 2023 and 2024, the salary increased more noticeably from 26 500 SEK to 27 800 SEK, a rise of approximately 4.9 %. This trend can be explained by a gradually increasing demand for skilled labor in the textile industry, and some employers in certain regions have had to raise wages to attract and retain staff. Despite the overall steady development, wages are also influenced by factors such as experience, workplace, and education level.

Weaving loom operator salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 27 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 23,400 SEK/month (man, public sector, high school education 3 years)
• Highest salary: 30,000 SEK/month (woman, public sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage: 167 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn on average 27 900 SEK, men 27 700 SEK
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on location and employer, but larger variations are primarily between sectors rather than regions.

Education and qualifications

To work as a weaving loom operator, a high school education with a focus on industry, textiles, or technology is usually required. Many employers also value practical experience from similar work within the textile or manufacturing industry. On-the-job training is often provided to learn specific machines and processes. Some workplaces may also offer internal training or require safety certifications for machinery.

• High school education: Industrial technology program or textile specialization, 3 years
• Internships: Internships during education are highly recommended
• Internal training: Common upon hiring
• Certifications: Machinery safety certificates may be required
• Prerequisites: Practical experience with machinery production is advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Weaving loom operators are often covered by collective agreements that guarantee occupational pensions, overtime pay, and insurance. Other common benefits include subsidized meals, wellness allowances, and work clothing. Some employers also offer bonus systems linked to production targets and further training within the profession.

Competition and challenges

The job market for weaving loom operators is characterized by some competition, primarily depending on geographic location and the number of textile industries in the region. Digitalization and automation have transformed the role, increasing the need for technical knowledge and continuous skills development. Despite relatively stable demand, the availability of permanent positions can vary, and many jobs are linked to temporary production needs. Safety and quality standards are high, making employers prefer candidates with proven experience and relevant education. Challenges related to the working environment include noise, shift work, and physical strain, requiring good health and endurance.

Tips for aspiring weaving loom operators

To succeed as a weaving loom operator, it’s good to have an interest in technology and machinery, as well as being meticulous in your work. Attention to detail and an eye for small deviations make it easier to monitor and adjust machines and materials. Good teamwork skills are important since work often takes place in teams and requires communication between different functions and shifts. Flexibility and stress tolerance are valuable qualities, as the production environment can be intense and tasks may change quickly. Practical experience from industry or similar environments gives an advantage, and actively seeking internships or summer jobs during training is recommended. Continual education and staying updated on new textile production technologies increase career opportunities. Lastly, being solution-oriented is beneficial, as troubleshooting and problem-solving are common daily tasks.

Key facts about weaving loom operators

• Average salary: 27 800 SEK/month
• Salary range: 23,400–30,000 SEK/month
• Education level: High school education, preferably industrial or textile focus
• Work type: Shift work in an industrial environment
• Available jobs in the profession: 1,437

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years as a weaving loom operator, there are opportunities to advance to supervisor, process manager, or technician within textile production. Some choose to specialize in quality control or machinery maintenance, while others pursue further education to become production technicians or operations managers. According to the Employment Service, no specific forecast exists for weaving loom operators due to limited data, but within the broader group of machine operators in bleaching, dyeing, and washing, there are currently 1,437 job openings. The outlook is considered relatively stable, especially for those with technical skills and experience with automated processes. However, there is some uncertainty about long-term demand as automation may change the job landscape for the profession.

Frequently asked questions about weaving loom operators

• What does a weaving loom operator earn?
  - The average salary for a weaving loom operator is 27 800 SEK per month. The highest reported salary is 30,000 SEK and the lowest is 23,400 SEK.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - No, within this profession, women and men earn approximately the same. Women have an average salary of 27 900 SEK, men 27 700 SEK.
• What education is required to become a weaving loom operator?
  - High school education with a focus on industry or textiles is most common. Practical experience is also advantageous.
• What is the job market like for weaving loom operators?
  - Currently, there are 1,437 job openings. Forecasts are uncertain but demand remains relatively stable.
• What does the work environment look like?
  - Work takes place in an industrial environment, often with shift work and exposure to noise, chemicals, and physical strain.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Occupational pension, overtime pay, insurance, wellness allowance, and subsidized lunch are typical benefits.
• Can one develop within the profession?
  - Yes, opportunities exist to advance to supervisor, technician, or specialize in quality control and maintenance.