Backline technician

What does a Backline Technician do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Backline Technician primarily works with handling, installing, and maintaining technical equipment for live performances, concerts, theater productions, and other events. Tasks include rigging and testing instruments and amplifiers, as well as quickly resolving technical issues during ongoing performances. The work is often done in teams alongside sound engineers, artists, and stage crew, where coordination and communication are essential. The work environment can be physically demanding and involve irregular hours, evenings, weekends, and working under time pressure in large arenas as well as smaller venues.

Salary Development Over Time

The salary for Backline Technicians has shown a clear upward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,400 SEK per month, increasing to 39 700 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 41 700 SEK, representing an overall increase of approximately 11.5% during this period. This development reflects an increased demand for technical expertise in live and stage production, as well as the growing complexity of modern arrangements. The salary increase can also be linked to technological advancements and the need for specialized personnel, along with the restart of the events industry after pandemic years.

Backline Technician Salary – Complete Overview

• Average Salary: 41 700 SEK/month
• Lowest Salary: 35,200 SEK/month (female, privately employed worker, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Highest Salary: 47,200 SEK/month (male, privately employed white-collar worker, unspecified education)
• Hourly Wage: 251 SEK/hour (average, hourly worker)
• Gender Differences: Men earn 44 700 SEK, women earn 37 800 SEK (85% of men's salary)
• Regional Differences: No specific data available

Education and Qualifications

The path to becoming a Backline Technician often involves practical experience and technical education in sound or broadcasting technology. Formal education at high school or post-secondary level is common, but many supplement this with certifications and courses in music production, electronics, or stage production. Internships and trainee positions provide valuable insight into the profession and are often a stepping stone into the job market.

• High School Education: Technical or Artistic programs with focus on sound/light
• Post-secondary Education: YH programs in sound and broadcasting technology (1–2 years)
• Certifications: Courses in electrical safety, sound engineering, or stage production
• Internships/Trainee: Internships at production companies, theaters, or music events
• Prerequisites: Technical interest and understanding of music equipment

Common Benefits and Perks

For Backline Technicians, it is common to receive additional pay for unsociable hours, travel per diems, and sometimes bonuses linked to tours or major productions. Other benefits may include wellness allowances, work clothing, and opportunities for further training at the employer’s expense. Collective agreements are common, providing a secure foundation for both salary and working conditions.

Competition and Challenges

Competition for permanent positions as a Backline Technician can be high, especially in larger cities and at major production companies. Many work as freelancers or on a project basis, requiring flexibility and the ability to quickly adapt to new teams and technical solutions. Technological innovations and rapid changes in the industry demand ongoing training. Additionally, irregular hours and physical strain pose challenges to the work environment. Despite this, the profession offers great opportunities for those with the right skills and network.

Tips for Aspiring Backline Technicians

To succeed as a Backline Technician, it is beneficial to combine technical interest with meticulousness and problem-solving skills. Building a strong network in the industry and seeking internships provides valuable contacts and experience. Flexibility and resilience are important qualities, as the work often involves quick adjustments and working under pressure. Continuously updating technical knowledge through courses and certifications makes it easier to meet new demands. Engagement and responsibility are appreciated by employers and colleagues, especially when handling expensive and sensitive equipment. Being communicative and collaborative facilitates teamwork on stage. Finally, showing initiative and curiosity often leads to new development opportunities within the profession.

Key Facts about Backline Technicians

• Education Level: Usually high school or YH education in technology or sound
• Work Environment: Events, concerts, and tours with varied workplaces
• Work Form: Often project-based or freelance, but permanent positions also exist
• Demand: 620 job openings within image and broadcast technicians
• Gender Distribution: Men have higher average salaries than women, women earn 85% of men's salaries

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years as a Backline Technician, opportunities open to advance to roles such as lead technician, technical coordinator, or production manager within the event and music industry. Some choose to specialize in areas like sound engineering, broadcasting, or tour management. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, there is no specific forecast for Backline Technicians, as the profession falls under the broader category of image and broadcast technicians. However, the number of job openings (620) indicates steady demand, especially for larger events and industry growth. Continued technological development and increased focus on live experiences suggest good prospects for skilled Backline Technicians.

Frequently Asked Questions about Backline Technicians

• What is the salary of a Backline Technician?
  - The average salary for a Backline Technician is 41 700 SEK per month.
• How do salary differences between men and women look?
  - Men earn an average of 44 700 SEK and women 37 800 SEK, which means women earn 85% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a Backline Technician?
  - Typically, a high school or YH education in technology, sound, or broadcasting, along with practical experience.
• What is the job market like for Backline Technicians?
  - There are 620 job openings within the profession of image and broadcast technicians, indicating steady demand.
• What tasks does a Backline Technician perform?
  - Tasks include rigging, testing, and maintaining technical equipment, as well as troubleshooting during live events.
• How high can the salary become as a Backline Technician?
  - The highest recorded salary is 47,200 SEK per month.
• What benefits are common in the profession?
  - Common benefits include overtime pay, per diems, wellness allowances, and further training.