Tool responder

What does a tool turner do? – Tasks and work environment

A tool turner works with manufacturing, maintaining, and repairing advanced tools, molds, and machine parts used in industry. The work often involves manual and computer-controlled lathes, milling machines, and grinding machines to shape metal and other materials with high precision. Tool turners interpret technical drawings, set up machines, monitor the manufacturing process, and check the dimensional accuracy of the parts produced. The work environment is generally workshop-based and can be noisy, with demands for accuracy, safety, and good physical endurance. It is common to work in teams with other technicians and operators, but independent tasks also occur regularly.

Salary development over time

The salary for tool turners has shown steady and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,000 SEK per month. In 2023, the average increased to 34 000 SEK, representing a growth of about 3%. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 35 200 SEK, which is an increase of just over 3.5% compared to the previous year. This salary development reflects ongoing demand for skilled labor in the metal industry, despite increased automation and technological changes. The salary increase can also be explained by a shortage of experienced tool turners and the need for employers to compete for talent. At the same time, the salary range is relatively narrow, indicating a homogeneous salary level within the profession.

Tool turner salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 35 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,400 SEK/month (female, private sector)
• Highest salary: 36,100 SEK/month (male, post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 212 SEK (average, hourly paid)
• Gender difference: Women earn 34 100 SEK, men 35 400 SEK – women earn 96% of men's salaries
• Regional differences: Regional data varies – generally higher salaries in metropolitan areas and industrial regions

Education and qualifications

To become a tool turner, a vocational education in industrial technology or workshop technology is typically required, often at high school or adult education level. Many employers seek practical experience and good knowledge of reading technical drawings, measurement techniques, and machine handling. Certifications in CNC technology and further education in metalworking are advantageous and can positively influence salary development.

• Vocational training: Industrial technology program (3 years, high school)
• Adult education: Komvux / vocational college, 1–2 years
• Certifications: CNC, measurement techniques, work environment
• Internships: Often mandatory part of the education
• Prerequisites: Passed mathematics, technology, and Swedish

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to base salary, benefits such as shift allowances, occupational pension, wellness contributions, work clothing, and sometimes bonus programs are often offered. Some employers also provide training opportunities and subsidized lunches. Overtime compensation and flexible working hours are available at certain companies, especially in larger industrial groups.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a tool turner has recently been characterized by a certain shortage of qualified workers, creating good opportunities for those with the right skills. At the same time, technological development and increased automation are changing job tasks, and demand for more advanced machine knowledge is increasing. Over five years, the need for traditional tool turners is expected to decrease, partly due to digitalization and efficiency improvements in industry. Therefore, continuous further training is necessary to meet new requirements and remain competitive. The work environment can be physically demanding, with high demands on accuracy and safety.

Tips for those who want to become a tool turner

To succeed as a tool turner, it’s good to combine technical interest with precision and patience. An analytical mindset helps with troubleshooting and machine setup, while good teamwork skills facilitate collaboration with other technicians. Being flexible and adaptable is an advantage when new machines or techniques are introduced, and a willingness to continuously develop skills through education and certifications is crucial to stay attractive on the job market. Practical experience, such as internships during training, provides valuable insights and increases the chances of quickly finding employment. Working methodically and systematically reduces errors and contributes to high quality in daily work. Finally, good physical endurance is important, as the profession often involves standing work and handling heavier materials.

Key facts about tool turners

• Average salary: 35 200 SEK/month
• Lowest/highest salary: 31,400–36,100 SEK/month
• Education level: High school or adult education in industrial technology
• Typical work environment: Workshop, industry, sometimes shift work
• Demand: High today, but decreasing over five years

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years as a tool turner, opportunities exist to advance to roles such as production technician, supervisor, CNC programmer, or quality inspector. Some choose to specialize in advanced machine technology or materials science, which can lead to higher salaries and increased responsibility. According to the Employment Service’s forecast, job opportunities within the profession are currently good, but demand is expected to decline over time due to technological development and automation in industry. Despite this, there are currently about 1,437 job openings in the profession of machine setters and operators, metalwork, indicating a continued strong need for skills in the field. For those who continuously upgrade their skills and follow technological developments, the future outlook remains positive, although competition may increase.

Frequently asked questions about tool turners

• What is the average salary for a tool turner?
  - The average salary for a tool turner is 35 200 SEK per month.
• What are the lowest and highest salaries for tool turners?
  - The lowest salary is 31,400 SEK and the highest is 36,100 SEK per month, depending on experience, gender, and education.
• Are there differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 34 100 SEK and men 35 400 SEK, which means women earn 96% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a tool turner?
  - Vocational training at high school or adult education in industrial technology is most common, often supplemented with internships and certifications.
• What are the future prospects?
  - Demand is high today but is expected to decrease over five years due to automation, according to the Employment Service.
• How many job openings are available?
  - There are approximately 1,437 job openings in the profession of machine setters and operators, metalwork.
• What benefits are common?
  - Common benefits include shift allowances, occupational pension, wellness contributions, work clothing, and sometimes bonus programs.