Appliances fitter, manufacturing

What does a whitegoods assembler in manufacturing do? – Tasks and working environment

A whitegoods assembler in manufacturing is responsible for assembling, installing, and sometimes testing appliances such as refrigerators, dishwashers, and stoves within industrial production lines. The assembly is often carried out according to carefully designed instructions, including tasks like screwing, connecting electrical cables, and sealing components. The work takes place in a factory environment, where the pace can be fast and the tasks repetitive. Safety regulations and ergonomic work positions are important to prevent injuries. The work is often done in teams, requiring good cooperation and communication skills.

Salary development over time

The salary for whitegoods assemblers in manufacturing has shown stable and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 29,600 SEK per month, increasing to 30 600 SEK in 2023. In the latest year, 2024, the average salary has risen to 32 700 SEK, which is approximately a 10 percent increase over the period. This trend reflects a continued demand for the profession within the industry, where technological development and retirements influence the need for new recruits. The increase can also be explained by collective bargaining salary adjustments and increased competition for labor. Despite the salary rise, differences between genders remain, with men earning more on average than women in the profession.

Whitegoods assembler, manufacturing salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 32 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 29,700 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 35,600 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 196 SEK
• Men's average salary: 33 100 SEK/month
• Women's average salary: 31 100 SEK/month
• Women earn: 94% of what men do
• Regional differences: The highest salaries for men are found in the regional sector

Education and qualifications

To work as a whitegoods assembler in manufacturing, a basic education in technology or industry is often required, typically at the high school level. Practical experience and the ability to follow technical instructions are highly valued, and many employers offer internal training to ensure the right skills. For certain tasks, specific certifications may be required, such as electrical competence when working with electrical components.

• High school education: Industrial technology programs (3 years)
• Certifications: Electrical competence may be required for some tasks
• Practical training: On-the-job training or internships during education
• Prerequisites: Technical interest and good understanding of instructions
• Additional courses: Safety training and ergonomics

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for whitegoods assemblers in manufacturing include collective agreement-insured insurances, occupational pension, and sometimes wellness allowances. Many employers also provide workwear, subsidized lunches, and opportunities for skills development. Overtime pay and shift allowances are common for work outside regular hours.

Competition and challenges

Competition for jobs as a whitegoods assembler in manufacturing is paradoxical, with a surplus of unemployed within the profession and reports of difficulty in finding candidates with the right skills. This is partly due to increased technical requirements and work experience, especially with automation. The work environment can be physically demanding with repetitive tasks, requiring precision and endurance. Changes in production pace or technology can also quickly alter job duties, demanding flexibility and a willingness to develop.

Tips for aspiring whitegoods assemblers in manufacturing

To succeed as a whitegoods assembler in manufacturing, it’s good to combine technical interest with accuracy and a willingness to collaborate. Early internships or summer jobs in industry help gain insight into the work environment and practical experience. Being flexible and able to quickly adapt to new routines is an advantage, especially as technology evolves. Good physical fitness and endurance facilitate repetitive tasks and heavy lifting, while problem-solving skills make it easier to handle unexpected situations. Social skills and communication are also important, as work often occurs in teams and under time pressure. Showing responsibility and a desire to learn new things increases chances of development and advancement in the profession.

Key facts about whitegoods assembler in manufacturing

• Educational level: High school education in industry or technology
• Work environment: Factory setting with high pace and teamwork
• Typical work form: Full-time, shift work is common
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide
• Special skills: Technical abilities and capacity to handle machinery

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a whitegoods assembler in manufacturing, opportunities open to advance to roles such as supervisor, production technician, or quality inspector. Continued education can lead to specialization in automation or maintenance. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast for assemblers of metal, rubber, and plastic products, job opportunities are expected to remain strong over the next five years, with stable demand and some recruitment difficulties for employers. The profession is influenced by industry cycles, but technological development and retirements suggest a continued need for skilled assemblers. Currently, there are 1,437 job openings in the field, underscoring a healthy job market.

Frequently asked questions about whitegoods assembler in manufacturing

• What does a whitegoods assembler in manufacturing earn?
  - A whitegoods assembler in manufacturing has an average salary of 32 700 SEK per month.
• How do the differences between men's and women's salaries look?
  - Men earn on average 33 100 SEK and women 31 100 SEK, which means women earn 94% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a whitegoods assembler?
  - High school education in industry or technology is most common, often supplemented with practical training.
• Are there good job opportunities in the profession?
  - Yes, there are many opportunities, and the job market is considered stable in the coming years.
• What is the highest and lowest salary in the profession?
  - The highest salary is 35,600 SEK (male, regional sector), the lowest is 29,700 SEK (female, various sectors).
• What personal qualities are important in the profession?
  - Accuracy, technical interest, teamwork skills, and flexibility are highly valued.
• What makes the working environment special for whitegoods assemblers?
  - The work environment is often fast-paced and requires both physical endurance and teamwork.