Image and repro graphics

What does an Image and reprographics technician do? – Tasks and work environment

An Image and reprographics technician primarily works with preparing, processing, and customizing original images and graphic material for printing or digital publishing. The profession often involves handling advanced image editing software, color management, retouching, and checking print originals. The work is performed in close collaboration with graphic designers, printing houses, and sometimes directly with clients, where accuracy and attention to detail are crucial. The work environment is usually office- or studio-like, with a focus on digital tools and often a fast pace to meet tight deadlines.

Salary development over time

Salaries for Image and reprographics technicians have shown steady growth in recent years, with an average of 33,000 SEK in 2022, an increase to 34 800 SEK in 2023, and a slight decrease to 34 700 SEK in 2024. The total increase from 2022 to 2024 is approximately 5.1%, although salary between 2023 and 2024 showed a marginal decline. This trend reflects a stable but somewhat cautious market, where demand for technical skills in image processing and printing remains strong, but digitalization and automation influence competition. Salary differences between genders are still noticeable, and education level and experience can significantly impact salary development.

Image and reprographics technician salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 34 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,800 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 37,800 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 209 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 85% of what men do (31 900 SEK/month for women, 37 700 SEK/month for men)
• Regional differences: Data varies, but metropolitan regions tend to offer higher salaries

Education and qualifications

To work as an Image and reprographics technician, a typical requirement is upper secondary education in graphic technology or equivalent vocational training, often supplemented with specialized courses in image processing and printing technology. Practical experience and good knowledge of relevant software are essential, and many employers also value certifications or work samples.

• Upper secondary education: Graphic technology, 3 years
• Vocational college: Prepress, graphic production, 1–2 years
• Certifications: Courses in Adobe Creative Suite and color management
• Internships: Internships or trainee periods at print shops or agencies
• Prerequisites: Basic computer skills, interest in images and color

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for Image and reprographics technicians include wellness allowances, flexible working hours, professional development opportunities, and sometimes access to digital tools and software. Some employers also offer extra vacation days and subsidized lunches.

Competition and challenges

The competition in the profession of Image and reprographics technicians has increased due to changes driven by digitalization and automation. Technological innovations require professionals to constantly update their skills and adapt to new workflows and software. At the same time, declining demand for traditional printing services means the job market is evolving, which can lead to increased competition for the most attractive positions. The ability to quickly learn new technologies and work creatively under time pressure is therefore crucial for success. The profession also demands good communication skills and an eye for detail, which can be challenging in a high-paced environment.

Tips for those who want to become an Image and reprographics technician

To succeed as an Image and reprographics technician, it's important to be precise and have a good sense of color and form, as the profession often requires accuracy in image processing and print adjustment. Being curious about technology and able to quickly learn new software or workflows is an advantage, given the rapid development of the graphic industry. Patience and methodical work under time pressure help with deliveries under tight deadlines. A communicative and service-oriented attitude facilitates collaboration with colleagues, agencies, and clients. Building a strong portfolio and participating in relevant courses or certifications can improve job prospects. Finally, the ability to work independently and take responsibility for the entire production chain from original to finished print is highly valued.

Key facts about Image and reprographics technicians

• Education level: Upper secondary or vocational college in graphic technology
• Work environment: Office, studio, or print shop with digital tools
• Typical employment: Full-time, sometimes shift or project-based
• Demand: Approximately 1,437 job openings in 2024
• Special skills: Image editing, color management, prepress techniques

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, an Image and reprographics technician can advance to specialist roles in color management, digital publishing, or production technology. Some choose to further their education to become project managers in graphic production or technical experts in the printing industry. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts for related professions such as pre-press technicians and printers, no specific assessment is made for Image and reprographics technicians due to limited data, but there are still a significant number of job openings within the profession. Rapid technological development and digitalization mean that demand for skills in new publishing formats and software is expected to continue being important for future career opportunities.

Frequently asked questions about Image and reprographics technicians

• What is the average salary of an Image and reprographics technician?
  - The average salary is 34 700 SEK per month.
• How do salary differences between women and men look?
  - Women earn 31 900 SEK, which corresponds to 85% of men's salary at 37 700 SEK.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for Image and reprographics technicians?
  - The highest salary is 37,800 SEK and the lowest is 31,800 SEK per month.
• How does one become an Image and reprographics technician?
  - Most commonly through upper secondary education or vocational college in graphic technology, along with internships.
• What are the job responsibilities of an Image and reprographics technician?
  - Preparing originals, image processing, color management, and adjustments for printing or digital publishing.
• What is the job market like?
  - There are approximately 1,437 job openings within the profession, but no detailed forecast is available.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Accuracy, technical interest, teamwork skills, and creativity are key qualities.