Toolmaker

36 000 kr

Blacksmiths

35 200 - 36 000 kr / month

Hantverksyrken

What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Toolmaker

Average salary 36 000 kr
Males 36 100 kr
Females 0 kr

What does a toolmaker do? – Tasks and work environment

A toolmaker works with manufacturing, repairing, and maintaining tools, molds, and other precision components used in industry. The job often involves machining metal through forging, grinding, turning, and milling to create parts with very tight tolerances. The toolmaker uses both traditional craftsmanship techniques and advanced machine equipment in their daily work. The work environment is typically workshop-based, involving both manual and computer-controlled tasks, requiring precision and technical understanding.

Salary development over time

The salary for a toolmaker has fluctuated in recent years, with an average salary of 36 000 SEK per month in 2024. The previous year, 2023, the average salary was slightly higher at 37 900 SEK, which represents a decrease of about 5% compared to the previous year. In 2022, the average salary was 32,300 SEK, indicating a significant increase to 2023, followed by a slight decline in 2024. This variation may be due to changes in demand within the industry, economic conditions, and the availability of skilled labor. Regional differences and the types of assignments relevant to the profession may also explain these trends.

Toolmaker salary – comprehensive overview

  • Average salary: 36 000 SEK/month
  • Lowest/Highest salary: Data unavailable
  • Hourly wage: 216 SEK/hour
  • Gender differences: Men earn on average 36 100 SEK/month, data for women is unavailable
  • Regional differences: Specific data unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a toolmaker, a typical requirement is a vocational upper secondary education in industrial technology or equivalent, often followed by practical training or an apprenticeship. Many employers also value experience in machine processing and reading technical drawings, as well as a willingness to continuously develop technical skills. Specialized courses in tool manufacturing, CNC technology, and materials science are advantageous.

  • Vocational training: Industrial technology program (3 years)
  • Practical training/apprenticeship: Usually 6–12 months
  • Certifications: Possible in CNC or welding
  • Prerequisites: Basic mathematics and technical interest
  • Further education: Courses in CAD/CAM and advanced tool technology

Many toolmakers develop a unique sense for materials and precision, making them highly sought-after problem solvers in the industry. Their craftsmanship combined with technical knowledge opens doors to specialized roles and consulting assignments.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Toolmakers are often offered benefits such as reduced working hours, wellness allowances, and sometimes bonuses linked to production targets. Occupational pension and insurance are typically included in collective agreements, and access to work clothing and protective equipment is standard. Opportunities for further training and certification are also available with many employers.

Challenges and competition

The job market for toolmakers is relatively small but specialized. A lack of new recruits and retirements can create competition for the most attractive positions, while automation and technological development demand new skills. Since the profession is influenced by the manufacturing industry’s economic cycle, demand can fluctuate over time. Technological advances mean that toolmakers need to stay updated with new machinery and digital tools, which can be challenging without ongoing training.

Tips for aspiring toolmakers

To succeed as a toolmaker, it’s important to be meticulous and have a genuine interest in technology and problem-solving. Developing patience and a high attention to detail makes it easier to work with precision tasks. Flexibility and willingness to learn new methods are essential, as techniques and machinery are constantly evolving. Good teamwork skills facilitate daily work, especially in larger workshops where many tasks are performed in teams. A practical mindset combined with analytical skills simplifies solving unexpected challenges. Finally, being communicative helps maintain clear dialogue with colleagues and management, ensuring a smooth workflow.

Key facts about Toolmakers

  • Education level: Vocational upper secondary education, often with practical training
  • Work environment: Workshop with machines and manual work
  • Demand: Approximately 341 available jobs within the profession (May 2024)
  • Special skills: High precision, material knowledge, reading technical drawings

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a toolmaker can advance to roles such as supervisor, production technician, or CNC programming specialist. Some choose to work as consultants or start their own business in tool manufacturing and maintenance. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, it is difficult to give a specific outlook for the future of toolmakers, as the profession is part of a broader occupational group with limited data. However, the number of available jobs indicates a certain demand, especially for those with specialized skills and relevant education. Continuous skills development and experience with new technologies increase opportunities for career advancement.

Common questions about Toolmakers

  • What does a toolmaker earn?
    - The average salary is 36 000 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 216 SEK for hourly workers.
  • What education is required to become a toolmaker?
    - A vocational upper secondary education in industrial technology is most common, often with practical training and certification opportunities.
  • Are there job opportunities for toolmakers?
    - There are approximately 341 available jobs within the profession according to current statistics.
  • What does the salary development look like for toolmakers?
    - Salaries have fluctuated in recent years, with a clear increase between 2022 and 2023, followed by a slight decline in 2024.
  • What qualities are important for a toolmaker?
    - Accuracy, technical interest, problem-solving skills, and flexibility are key qualities.
  • Do toolmakers mainly work daytime?
    - Most work daytime hours, but shift work may occur depending on the workplace.

Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
25-34 35200 kr 36300 kr
Snitt 35200 kr 36000 kr
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 Toolmaker has the SSYK code 7221, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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