What does a pediatric surgeon do? – Tasks and work environment
Pediatric surgeons are specialist doctors who perform surgical procedures on children and adolescents, from newborns up to teenagers. Their tasks include diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of congenital and acquired diseases requiring surgical interventions. Common procedures include operations on the gastrointestinal tract, urinary system, chest, and sometimes emergency trauma cases. The work often takes place in multidisciplinary teams in an environment where collaboration with pediatric nurses, anesthesiologists, and other specialists is essential. The work environment is characterized by high demands on precision, empathy, and stress tolerance, as the patient group is particularly vulnerable, and communication with both children and their families is a central part of the job.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, pediatric surgeons' salaries have shown a clear upward trend. In 2022, the average salary was 86,400 SEK per month, which increased to 92 200 SEK in 2023 and reached 93 600 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of approximately 8.3 % over the period, which is higher than the average for many other healthcare professions. The salary increase can be linked to the growing demand for specialist doctors, especially in pediatric surgery where there is a noticeable skills shortage. Factors such as lengthy training, high specialization requirements, and increasing healthcare needs among children contribute to the positive salary development. Additionally, regional competition for qualified staff has driven up salaries further, particularly in metropolitan areas and larger hospitals.
Pediatric surgeon salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 93 600 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 84,600 SEK/month (male), 91,200 SEK/month (female)
- Highest salary: 110,600 SEK/month (male), 101,500 SEK/month (female)
- Hourly wage (average): 563 SEK/hour
- Gender differences: Women earn 98% of men's salary (92 900 SEK/month vs 94 300 SEK/month)
- Regional differences: Salary peaks are often found in metropolitan regions and at university hospitals
Education and qualifications
The path to becoming a pediatric surgeon is long and requires both theoretical and practical training. First, a medical degree is necessary, followed by internship (AT) and specialist training (ST) in surgery, then further specialization in pediatric surgery. In addition to formal education, specific certifications and continuing education are often required to stay updated on new treatment methods and techniques.
- Medical degree: Basic education, at least 5.5 years
- Internship (AT): About 1.5–2 years
- Specialist training (ST) in surgery: 5 years, then subspecialization in pediatric surgery
- Practical training and supervision: Extensive practical experience during both AT and ST
- Continuing education: Ongoing courses and certifications in new surgical techniques
Pediatric surgery is one of the few medical specialties where a single surgical technique must be adapted to the child's age, size, and developmental stage. It requires both detailed knowledge and great flexibility, as a procedure suitable for a teenager could be life-threatening for an infant patient.
Common benefits and compensations
Pediatric surgeons are often offered benefits such as extra vacation weeks, salary exchange options, generous occupational pensions, and opportunities for professional development. Additional perks may include on-call allowances, wellness grants, and sometimes access to research funding or paid further training. Larger hospitals may also offer relocation support and housing assistance during recruitment.
Competition and challenges
The profession of pediatric surgery is highly demanded, and competition for training positions is significant. Despite good job opportunities, there is a paradoxical shortage of experienced pediatric surgeons, leading to high workloads and sometimes difficulties covering on-call duties. Challenges include rapid medical advances requiring continuous education, and high emotional stress, as patients are often in vulnerable situations. Technological developments in minimally invasive surgery and the need for interdisciplinary collaboration also place high demands on flexibility and ongoing skill development.
Tips for those wanting to become a pediatric surgeon
To succeed as a pediatric surgeon, it is beneficial to combine medical interest with patience and problem-solving skills. Precision is crucial, as small mistakes can have serious consequences for young patients. Good communication facilitates teamwork with colleagues and families, and empathy helps create a sense of security for the children. Flexibility is another important trait, as the work often involves unexpected challenges and quick adjustments. A long-term drive and willingness to continually update one's skills provide the best conditions for a successful career in pediatric surgery. Actively seeking mentorship and taking advantage of internship opportunities during training also offer valuable experience for the future.
Key facts about pediatric surgeons
- Education level: Medical degree + specialist training (at least 12 years total)
- Work environment: Hospitals, often university hospitals or larger pediatric clinics
- Demand: Very high, especially in metropolitan areas and regional hospitals
- Work mode: Full-time, often with on-call duties and standby
- Special skills: Surgery on children of various ages and conditions
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a pediatric surgeon, there are opportunities to advance to leadership roles, such as department head or responsible for a pediatric surgical unit. Many also choose to deepen their expertise in subspecialties like neonatal surgery or pediatric urology. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, the outlook is very positive, with continued increasing demand for specialist doctors in pediatric surgery over the next five years. The shortage of trained pediatric surgeons is expected to persist, providing excellent job opportunities and salary growth potential. Currently, there are 371 vacant positions nationwide, and research or teaching careers are also promising for those who want to combine clinical work with academic pursuits.
Frequently asked questions about pediatric surgery
- What does a pediatric surgeon earn?
- The average monthly salary for a pediatric surgeon is 93 600 SEK.
- How do you become a pediatric surgeon?
- First, a medical degree, followed by internship (AT), specialist training (ST) in surgery, and then specialization in pediatric surgery.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn on average 98% of men's salaries within the profession.
- What is the job market like for pediatric surgeons?
- The job market is very good with high demand and many available positions.
- What are the biggest challenges in the profession?
- Emotional stress, high demands for precision, and continuous education are some of the main challenges.
- Where do pediatric surgeons usually work?
- Most work in hospitals, primarily university hospitals and larger pediatric clinics.
- What is the highest and lowest salary for a pediatric surgeon?
- The highest salary is 110,600 SEK/month (male), 101,500 SEK/month (female). The lowest is 84,600 SEK/month (male), 91,200 SEK/month (female).
