Surface finisher, wood, crafts

What does a wood and craft surface treatment specialist do? – Tasks and work environment

A wood and craft surface treatment specialist is responsible for refining, protecting, and giving final finishes to wood products. Tasks include sanding, staining, varnishing, painting, and oiling everything from furniture to carpentry and interior details. The process requires precision and a good sense of materials and finish, as small errors can be noticeable on the final product. The profession is often practiced in workshops or industrial facilities, where the work environment involves handling chemicals, dust, and machinery. Protective equipment and good ventilation are important to ensure health and safety, and the tasks can be physically demanding and repetitive.

Salary development over time

The salary for wood and craft surface treatment specialists has shown a steady but slightly increasing trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,435 SEK per month, followed by a marginal increase to 31 691 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has increased further to 31 823 SEK per month. This corresponds to a total salary increase of approximately 1.2% over three years, in line with the general trend for similar craft professions. The relatively modest salary increase is largely due to continued strong competition for jobs, while the demand for skilled surface treatment specialists remains stable but not growing. The labor market has not experienced major disruptions, contributing to the steady trend in salary development.

Wood and craft surface treatment specialists salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 31 823 SEK/month
• Lowest/Highest salary: Data unavailable
• Hourly wage: 191 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Data unavailable
• Regional differences: Data unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a wood and craft surface treatment specialist, a vocational high school education in crafts is usually required, such as specialization in fine carpentry or wood technology. Many employers value experience from the industry and practical skills, often gained through internships or trainee positions. For some specialized roles, further training or certification courses may be necessary.

• High school education: Crafts program, with specialization in fine carpentry or wood technology (3 years)
• Internships: Longer internship periods during or after education are very common
• Courses/certifications: Specialized courses in surface treatment, varnishing, or environmental management can be advantageous
• Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of wood and tool handling
• Tips for choosing: Look for programs closely linked to working life with opportunities for internships

Common benefits and compensations

Surface treatment specialists in wood and crafts are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, work clothes, and sometimes extra vacation days. Some employers provide subsidized lunches or employee discounts on materials and tools. Irregular working hours may occur, but overtime pay and shift premiums are common for work outside regular hours.

Competition and challenges

The job market for wood and craft surface treatment specialists is characterized by stable demand, but competition for positions can be tough, especially in regions with fewer wood industries or carpentry shops. Quality requirements are high, and employers often seek candidates with documented experience and specialized skills. Challenges in the profession include physical strain, exposure to chemicals, and the need to stay updated on new materials and techniques. Digitalization and automation also influence the industry, making it important to develop skills to remain competitive. The role requires great accuracy, which can be strenuous during high production volumes.

Tips for aspiring wood and craft surface treatment specialists

To succeed as a wood and craft surface treatment specialist, it’s beneficial to combine technical curiosity with attention to detail and a strong sense of quality. Being meticulous and patient is crucial, especially during tasks where small mistakes can have large consequences on the final result. Practical experience, preferably through internships or summer jobs, provides valuable insights into work processes and helps develop a feel for the material. Collaboration skills are important since the work is often team-based, but independence and initiative are also appreciated when responsible for own projects. A continuous desire to learn new techniques and follow industry developments increases chances of employment and advancement. Good physical endurance also facilitates the work, as many tasks require strength and precision.

Key facts about wood and craft surface treatment specialists

• Average salary: 31 823 SEK/month
• Education level: High school vocational training (3 years)
• Work environment: Workshop/industry with chemical handling
• Demand: 341 available jobs according to latest data
• Special skills: Surface treatment, varnishing, sanding

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years of work experience, a wood and craft surface treatment specialist can develop into more specialized roles, such as supervisor, quality manager, or technician in surface treatment. Opportunities also exist to work in the production of exclusive furniture or to start their own business. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, demand remains stable, with a relatively balanced competition and good job prospects for those with the right skills. However, digitalization and new environmental requirements may change skill needs in the future, making ongoing skill development important. The industry also offers opportunities for further education in areas like product development or management for those seeking advancement.

Common questions about wood and craft surface treatment specialists

• What does a wood and craft surface treatment specialist earn?
  - The average salary is 31 823 SEK per month according to recent statistics.
• What education is required to become a surface treatment specialist in wood?
  - Most commonly, a vocational high school education in crafts, preferably with a focus on wood or carpentry.
• What is the work environment like for a surface treatment specialist?
  - Work often takes place in workshops or industrial facilities with exposure to dust, chemicals, and machinery.
• Are there many job openings for surface treatment specialists in wood?
  - There are 341 available jobs according to current data.
• What personal qualities are important in this profession?
  - Attention to detail, patience, teamwork skills, and technical understanding are especially valuable.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Demand is stable, and job opportunities are good for those with the right skills.
• What is the average hourly wage for a surface treatment specialist in wood?
  - The average hourly wage is 191 SEK.