- Salary statistics
- Cytologist Assistant salary
Cytologist Assistant salary
Latest available salary statistics are for 2025. Compare average pay, salary range and related job listings.
27 400 - 55 300 SEK / month
Women earn 99% of what men do.
Hälso- & sjukvård
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Salary progression Cytologist Assistant
What does a Cytology Assistant do? – Tasks and Work Environment
A Cytology Assistant primarily works with preparing, analyzing, and assessing cell samples in medical laboratory operations. The role involves assisting biomedical analysts and physicians in cytological examinations, where cells from bodily fluids or tissues are examined to detect pathological changes such as cancer or infections. The work requires precision, a good understanding of laboratory processes, and a high level of responsibility. Cytology Assistants are often employed in hospital laboratories or private diagnostics companies. The work environment is characterized by sterile, technically advanced laboratories where safety procedures and quality assurance are central.
Lönutveckling över tid
Over the past three years, the salary for Cytology Assistants has shown a clear positive trend. In 2022, the average salary was 37,200 SEK per month. The following year, 2023, the average increased to 41 200 SEK, representing an increase of about 6.5%. Between 2023 and 2024, the salary continued to rise to 40 600 SEK, an additional increase of around 4%. This steady salary development reflects a continued high demand for specialized skills in cytology and laboratory medicine. Salaries are also influenced by factors such as education level, work experience, and the sector of the employer. Since the profession is part of the biomedical analyst group, general skill shortages and increased diagnostic demands have contributed to rising salaries in recent years.
Cytology Assistant Salary – Complete Overview
- Average salary: 40 600 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 28,600 SEK/month (woman, public sector)
- Highest salary: 57,300 SEK/month (woman, private sector, research education)
- Highest salary for men: 55,700 SEK/month
- Lowest salary for men: 29,600 SEK/month
- Hourly wage (average): 248 SEK
- Women earn: 40 600 SEK (99% of men's salary)
- Men earn: 41 000 SEK
Education and Qualifications
To work as a Cytology Assistant, a degree in biomedical laboratory science is generally required, often in the form of a biomedical analyst degree focusing on laboratory medicine. In some cases, additional courses or certifications in cytology may be necessary, especially for work in larger or specialized laboratories. Practical laboratory experience is highly meritorious, and employers often seek good knowledge of laboratory techniques and cell biology.
- Biomedical analyst degree: 3 years (college/university)
- Specialized courses in cytology: 1–2 semesters (further education)
- Internship/Trainee: Laboratory internship during studies
- Prerequisites: Science-oriented upper secondary education
- Certification: May be required by some employers
Many Cytology Assistants develop a very keen eye for detail over time, enabling them to often detect subtle changes in cell samples that can be crucial for the patient's diagnosis. This ability is highly valued in laboratory medicine and can lead to specialist roles or supervisory positions.
Common Benefits and Compensation
Cytology Assistants are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowances, and compensation for unsocial hours. Other common benefits include skills development, subsidized lunches, and access to occupational health services. Public sector roles may also include extra vacation days and flexible working hours.
Competition and Challenges
Competition for Cytology Assistant positions varies by region and employer, but nationally, job prospects are considered good. At the same time, the profession faces a paradoxical recruitment situation: there is a shortage of trained personnel, but the proportion of part-time workers and those leaving the profession is relatively high. Challenges include high demands for accuracy, handling sensitive samples, and keeping up with rapid technological developments in laboratory diagnostics. The ability to work under pressure and follow strict routines is crucial for success in the role.
Tips for Aspiring Cytology Assistants
To succeed as a Cytology Assistant, it’s important to combine analytical skills with a strong eye for detail, as small deviations in cell samples can be significant. Patience and thoroughness help maintain high quality in laboratory work, especially during busy periods. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with doctors and colleagues, which is essential for accurate analysis. Flexibility and a willingness to learn new techniques are also valuable, as laboratory methods and equipment are constantly evolving. Staying updated through continuous education and relevant courses can open doors to more specialized roles. A structured work approach and adherence to safety routines contribute to both personal and patient safety. Finally, a genuine interest in medicine and laboratory science is a key driver for long-term development in the profession.
Key Facts about Cytology Assistants
- Educational level: Biomedical analyst degree (3 years)
- Work environment: Laboratory-based, often at hospitals or private labs
- Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide
- Number of vacancies: 375 within the profession
- Gender distribution: Mostly women, but men have slightly higher average salaries
Career Paths and Future Outlook
After three to five years in the profession, a Cytology Assistant can advance to more specialized roles, such as a cytodiagnostics specialist or supervisor for new staff. There are also opportunities for further education in areas like molecular biology, histopathology, or leadership, which can lead to managerial positions. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, the job market for biomedical analysts, including Cytology Assistants, remains strong with ample opportunities and unchanged demand over the next five years. Technological advances and increased diagnostic requirements suggest that the role will remain important and in demand in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cytology Assistants
- What does a Cytology Assistant earn?
- The average salary for a Cytology Assistant is 40 600 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, sector, and education. - How do salary differences between men and women look?
- Men earn on average 41 000 SEK while women earn 40 600 SEK, which means women have about 99% of men's salaries. - What education is required to become a Cytology Assistant?
- A biomedical analyst degree of three years, often supplemented with specialized courses in cytology. - What does the job market look like?
- Job opportunities are plentiful, with approximately 375 vacancies nationwide. - Are there opportunities for further education?
- Yes, further education in areas such as molecular biology or leadership is possible and can lead to specialized or managerial roles. - What benefits are common?
- Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, skills development, and compensation for unsocial hours. - What are the main challenges in the profession?
- High demands for accuracy, continuous training, and handling sensitive samples are some of the biggest challenges.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 29300 kr | 31100 kr | |
| 25-34 | 96% | 34600 kr | 35900 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 39100 kr | 40400 kr |
| 45-54 | 96% | 42200 kr | 43800 kr |
| 55-64 | 102% | 43600 kr | 45000 kr |
| 65-68 | 45800 kr | 47900 kr | |
| Snitt | 99% | 39200 kr | 40600 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 102% | 29500 kr | 30300 kr |
| 25-34 | 100% | 33400 kr | 34500 kr |
| 35-44 | 100% | 37500 kr | 38600 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 40100 kr | 41500 kr |
| 55-64 | 103% | 42100 kr | 43400 kr |
| 65-68 | 97% | 43200 kr | 44800 kr |
| Snitt | 103% | 37900 kr | 39100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 29800 kr | 29800 kr | |
| 25-34 | 101% | 33600 kr | 33900 kr |
| 35-44 | 100% | 38100 kr | 38600 kr |
| 45-54 | 94% | 39100 kr | 39200 kr |
| 55-64 | 106% | 40300 kr | 40300 kr |
| 65-68 | 40000 kr | 40900 kr | |
| Snitt | 102% | 37800 kr | 38100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 66% | 47900 kr | 51500 kr |
| 35-44 | 114% | 38400 kr | 38900 kr |
| 45-54 | 43000 kr | 44100 kr | |
| 55-64 | 44900 kr | 46700 kr | |
| Snitt | 81% | 42700 kr | 44100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 102% | 29500 kr | 30300 kr |
| 25-34 | 101% | 33400 kr | 34400 kr |
| 35-44 | 100% | 37500 kr | 38600 kr |
| 45-54 | 101% | 40200 kr | 41500 kr |
| 55-64 | 103% | 42200 kr | 43500 kr |
| 65-68 | 98% | 43300 kr | 44900 kr |
| Snitt | 104% | 37900 kr | 39100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 37600 kr | 40000 kr | |
| 35-44 | 43900 kr | 45700 kr | |
| 45-54 | 49600 kr | 0 kr | |
| 55-64 | 51200 kr | 53400 kr | |
| Snitt | 43600 kr | 46100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 37600 kr | 40000 kr | |
| 35-44 | 43900 kr | 45700 kr | |
| 45-54 | 49600 kr | 0 kr | |
| 55-64 | 51200 kr | 53400 kr | |
| Snitt | 43600 kr | 46100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 96% | 35400 kr | 37100 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 39500 kr | 41200 kr |
| 45-54 | 96% | 43000 kr | 45400 kr |
| 55-64 | 102% | 42600 kr | 44300 kr |
| Snitt | 99% | 39000 kr | 41000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 102% | 28500 kr | 29900 kr |
| 25-34 | 100% | 33200 kr | 34400 kr |
| 35-44 | 100% | 37000 kr | 38600 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 39800 kr | 41500 kr |
| 55-64 | 103% | 40800 kr | 42200 kr |
| 65-68 | 97% | 43600 kr | 45900 kr |
| Snitt | 103% | 36600 kr | 38000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 101% | 33300 kr | 33600 kr |
| 35-44 | 100% | 38100 kr | 38500 kr |
| 45-54 | 94% | 39900 kr | 41400 kr |
| 55-64 | 106% | 38100 kr | 38100 kr |
| Snitt | 102% | 36800 kr | 37500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 66% | 57600 kr | 62200 kr |
| 35-44 | 114% | 33700 kr | 35200 kr |
| Snitt | 81% | 48900 kr | 52000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 102% | 28500 kr | 29900 kr |
| 25-34 | 101% | 33000 kr | 34100 kr |
| 35-44 | 100% | 37000 kr | 38700 kr |
| 45-54 | 101% | 39600 kr | 41300 kr |
| 55-64 | 103% | 40900 kr | 42300 kr |
| 65-68 | 98% | 43900 kr | 45900 kr |
| Snitt | 104% | 36500 kr | 38000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 29500 kr | 30900 kr | |
| 25-34 | 96% | 34400 kr | 35600 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 39000 kr | 40100 kr |
| 45-54 | 96% | 42000 kr | 43400 kr |
| 55-64 | 102% | 43700 kr | 45100 kr |
| 65-68 | 45100 kr | 46900 kr | |
| Snitt | 99% | 39200 kr | 40600 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 102% | 29800 kr | 30400 kr |
| 25-34 | 100% | 33500 kr | 34500 kr |
| 35-44 | 100% | 37700 kr | 38600 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 40200 kr | 41500 kr |
| 55-64 | 103% | 42300 kr | 43500 kr |
| 65-68 | 97% | 43200 kr | 44700 kr |
| Snitt | 103% | 38200 kr | 39300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 29800 kr | 29800 kr | |
| 25-34 | 101% | 33700 kr | 34000 kr |
| 35-44 | 100% | 38100 kr | 38600 kr |
| 45-54 | 94% | 39000 kr | 39000 kr |
| 55-64 | 106% | 40500 kr | 40500 kr |
| 65-68 | 40000 kr | 40000 kr | |
| Snitt | 102% | 38000 kr | 38200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 66% | 38200 kr | 40800 kr |
| 35-44 | 114% | 39800 kr | 40000 kr |
| 45-54 | 40000 kr | 40700 kr | |
| 55-64 | 45200 kr | 47300 kr | |
| Snitt | 81% | 41300 kr | 42300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 102% | 29700 kr | 30400 kr |
| 25-34 | 101% | 33500 kr | 34500 kr |
| 35-44 | 100% | 37600 kr | 38600 kr |
| 45-54 | 101% | 40200 kr | 41600 kr |
| 55-64 | 103% | 42400 kr | 43700 kr |
| 65-68 | 98% | 43300 kr | 44800 kr |
| Snitt | 104% | 38200 kr | 39300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 36700 kr | 38800 kr | |
| 35-44 | 43200 kr | 44900 kr | |
| 45-54 | 48800 kr | 50900 kr | |
| 55-64 | 51600 kr | 53800 kr | |
| Snitt | 43100 kr | 45300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 36700 kr | 38800 kr | |
| 35-44 | 43200 kr | 44900 kr | |
| 45-54 | 48800 kr | 50900 kr | |
| 55-64 | 51600 kr | 53800 kr | |
| Snitt | 43100 kr | 45300 kr |
About the data
All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.
All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.
Profession Cytologist Assistant has the SSYK code 3212, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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