Dragist, pharmaceutical industry

What does a Dragist in the pharmaceutical industry do? – Tasks and working environment

A Dragist in the pharmaceutical industry primarily works with the production, handling, and quality control of medicines and pharmaceutical products. Tasks often include monitoring machinery and processes, weighing and dosing ingredients, and documenting production data according to strict quality and safety regulations. The work environment is usually cleanrooms or other specialized production facilities where precision and hygiene are critical. Collaboration with other professionals such as pharmacists, laboratory staff, and technicians is common to ensure production meets current regulations and standards.

Salary development over time

The salary for Dragists in the pharmaceutical industry has shown steady but variable growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 35100 SEK per month, increasing to 37100 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has been adjusted to 36 500 SEK, representing a slight decrease from the previous year but still about a 4% increase over the three-year period. This variation may be due to changes in demand for skilled labor, inflation effects, and wage negotiations within the industry. Salary levels are also influenced by educational requirements and the industry's growing need for quality assurance and technical skills. Overall, the profession remains stable regarding salary development, with small differences between genders and good opportunities for increases with experience and specialization.

Dragist in the pharmaceutical industry salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 36 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 35,600 SEK/month (men), 35,800 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 38,600 SEK/month (men), 38,300 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 219 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn the same or slightly more than men
• Regional differences: Small, but highest salaries are found within regional sectors

Education and qualifications

To work as a Dragist in the pharmaceutical industry, a high school education with a science or technical focus is usually required, supplemented with specific courses in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Many employers also prefer candidates with post-secondary education or experience from similar industrial work. Practical experience and a good understanding of quality assurance are highly valued qualities in the profession.

• High school education: Science or technology, 3 years
• Post-secondary courses: In pharmaceutical production and quality assurance
• Internship: Often required or relevant work experience
• Certifications: GMP training (Good Manufacturing Practice) is advantageous
• Prerequisites: Precision, technical understanding, and good hygiene habits

Common benefits and compensations

Employees working as Dragists in the pharmaceutical industry are often offered benefits such as extra vacation days, wellness allowances, occupational pension, and opportunities for skill development. Shift or overtime compensation is common for working during inconvenient hours, along with insurance covering work-related injuries and illnesses. Some employers also offer subsidized meals and bonus programs linked to production targets.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as a Dragist in the pharmaceutical industry is generally moderate but can vary depending on region and economic conditions. One of the main challenges is maintaining accuracy and complying with complex regulations, especially as production continuously evolves with new technologies and traceability requirements. The industry is highly regulated, requiring ongoing training and adaptation to changing legal standards. Since the work environment is often process-intensive and routine-driven, high demands are placed on stress tolerance and the ability to work systematically. The availability of job openings is good within the profession, but the requirements for documented competence have increased.

Tips for those who want to become a Dragist in the pharmaceutical industry

To succeed as a Dragist in the pharmaceutical industry, it is helpful to develop a strong sense of accuracy and quality, as work requires following instructions precisely. Being flexible and able to quickly familiarize oneself with new routines or machinery makes it easier to adapt to changes in production. An interest in technology and systematic work facilitates handling advanced equipment and documenting processes. Teamwork and good communication skills are important, as work often occurs in teams and with various professional roles. Actively seeking internships or trainee positions provides valuable experience and increases chances of employment. An interest in learning more about pharmaceuticals and quality assurance offers advantages in the job market. Finally, it is important to demonstrate responsibility and follow safety routines, as production places high demands on both the work environment and product safety.

Key facts about Dragist in the pharmaceutical industry

• Education level: High school or post-secondary with technical/pharmaceutical focus
• Work environment: Process industry, often cleanroom or environment-controlled
• Typical work schedule: Shift work or daytime, depending on the workplace
• Demand: 1,437 available positions within the profession (2024)
• Gender distribution: Even, with equal pay for women and men

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a Dragist in the pharmaceutical industry, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as process operator, team leader, or quality manager within production. Some choose to further their education in laboratory work or specialize in production technology and automation. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that there is no specific assessment for the profession due to limited data, but demand within the profession is relatively good with over 1,400 reported job openings. The future outlook is considered stable, especially for those with experience, flexibility, and good knowledge of quality management and GMP. Digitalization and automation are expected to influence the profession, which can open new career opportunities for those interested in technology.

Frequently asked questions about Dragist in the pharmaceutical industry

• What does a Dragist in the pharmaceutical industry earn?
  - The average salary is 36 500 SEK per month, with minor differences between women and men.
• How has the salary development for Dragists in the pharmaceutical industry progressed?
  - Salaries have increased from 35100 SEK (2022) to 36 500 SEK (2024), with a peak at 37100 SEK (2023).
• Is special education required to become a Dragist?
  - A high school education in technology/science is required, preferably supplemented with courses or certifications in pharmaceutical manufacturing.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - No, women earn the same or slightly more than men in this profession.
• What are the workplace environment requirements for Dragists?
  - Strict hygiene rules, work in cleanrooms, and requirements for precision and documentation apply.
• What are the future prospects?
  - Demand remains stable within the profession, with over 1400 reported job openings in 2024.