Workshop mechanic, all-round

What does a workshop mechanic in metalwork do? – Tasks and work environment

A workshop mechanic in metalwork is responsible for manufacturing, assembling, maintaining, and repairing machine components and metal products. Tasks can range from advanced processing on manual and computer-controlled machines to measurement, inspection, and fine-tuning of details. The profession requires precision, technical knowledge, and the ability to interpret drawings. The work environment is often workshop-based, sometimes noisy, involving heavy lifting, but modern workshops have good safety measures and ergonomic tools.

Salary development over time

The salary development for a workshop mechanic, all-round, has been steadily rising over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,000 SEK per month, increasing to 34 000 SEK in 2023 and further to 35 200 SEK in 2024. The total increase over this period is approximately 6.6%, reflecting both general industry wage trends and continued demand for skilled labor. Salary increases can also be explained by labor shortages in the profession and increased demands for technical competence as machinery modernizes. Despite this positive trend, the rate of wage growth has begun to level off somewhat, likely due to increased automation and efficiency in Swedish industry.

Workshop Mechanic, all-round, salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 35 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,400 SEK/month (women), 31,800 SEK/month (men)
• Highest salary: 36,100 SEK/month (men), 34,500 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 212 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 96% of what men do (men: 35 400 SEK, women: 34 100 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on region and employer

Education and qualifications

To work as a workshop mechanic in metalwork, a high school diploma with a focus on industrial technology is usually required, supplemented with practical experience in a workshop. Some employers also require certifications in CNC technology or welding, as well as experience reading and interpreting technical drawings. Further education and specialization are available through vocational colleges or industry-specific courses.

• High school education: Industrial technology program, 3 years
• Certificates/certifications: CNC operator, welding licenses
• Internship: Often at least 15 weeks during high school
• Further education: Vocational college, 1–2 years for specialization
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility, mathematics, and technology

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for workshop mechanics include shift and overtime allowances, wellness contributions, work clothing, and sometimes bonuses for production targets. Some employers also offer extra vacation, pension contributions, or opportunities for skills development through internal training.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a workshop mechanic is currently relatively low, as the industry is characterized by a labor shortage and significant employment opportunities. At the same time, the profession faces challenges from increased automation and technological development, which may streamline certain tasks in the future. To meet future demands, mechanics need continuous training and staying updated on new machines and digital control systems. Physical strain and high safety requirements mean that precision and endurance are important qualities for long-term success in the profession.

Tips for those wishing to become a workshop mechanic in metalwork

To succeed as a workshop mechanic in metalwork, it is beneficial to have a technical interest and a willingness to learn new things constantly. Precision is crucial, as small errors can have significant consequences in production, so practice working methodically and following instructions. Flexibility and problem-solving skills make it easier to handle unexpected challenges and quickly adapt to new machines or processes. Being cooperative and communicative contributes to a smoother workday, especially in environments where multiple roles work closely together. A strong safety mindset is also important, as many tasks require protective equipment and carefulness to avoid accidents. Finally, taking initiative for further training or certification can open more career opportunities and lead to higher wages over time.

Key facts about Workshop Mechanic, all-round

• Salary range: 31,400–36,100 SEK/month
• Education level: High school diploma or vocational college
• Work environment: Workshop-based, often shift work
• Gender difference: Women earn 96% of men's salary
• Demand: Large labor shortage, but decreasing long-term need

Career paths and future outlook

After 3–5 years as a workshop mechanic, there are opportunities to advance to more specialized roles, such as CNC technician, production engineer, or supervisor within the workshop. Some choose to further their education in automation or quality technology, which can lead to roles in process development or technical support. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that the job market for machine setters and operators in metalwork is good, with high demand and current labor shortages. However, demand is expected to decline over five years due to increased automation and technological development. Despite this, there are currently over 1,400 job openings in the profession, offering good opportunities for newcomers.

Common questions about Workshop Mechanic, all-round

• What does a Workshop Mechanic, all-round, earn?
  - The average salary is 35 200 SEK per month, with a range between 31,400 and 36,100 SEK depending on experience, region, and education.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn an average of 34 100 SEK, which is 96% of men's salary (men: 35 400 SEK).
• What education is required to become a workshop mechanic?
  - A high school diploma from the industrial technology program or equivalent, often combined with internships and sometimes certifications in CNC or welding.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - In the short term, demand is high and there is a labor shortage, but over five years, the need is expected to decrease due to increased automation.
• Are there regional differences?
  - Yes, salaries can vary depending on region and employer. Larger industrial areas often offer slightly higher wages.
• What are common tasks for workshop mechanics?
  - Manufacturing, assembly, maintenance, and repair of metal products, as well as working with CNC machines and reading technical drawings.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Opportunities to advance to CNC technician, supervisor, production engineer, or further education in automation and quality.