Film technician, developing, copying

What does a film technician in development and copying do? – Tasks and work environment

A film technician in development and copying works with the technical handling of analog and digital film formats. Tasks include chemical development of film rolls, copying film material, quality control, and maintenance of advanced laboratory equipment. The work is often performed in darkrooms or specially adapted laboratory environments where precision and accuracy are crucial. The film technician also collaborates closely with photographers, directors, and other technicians to ensure that the final material meets the highest standards regarding image quality and durability.

Salary development over time

The salary for film technicians in development and copying has increased significantly over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 32,600 SEK per month, rising to 33 600 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary reached 38 100 SEK, which represents an increase of about 17% over the period. This development reflects a growing demand for specialized technical skills within the photo and film industry, where digitalization and preservation needs of analog formats have contributed to raising the profession's status. Although the group is relatively small, technological advances and industry needs for quality assurance have caused salaries to rise faster than the average for many other technical professions.

Film technician in development and copying salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 38 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 36,000 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 39,800 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 229 SEK
• Women's average salary: 36,900 SEK/month (96% of men's salary)
• Men's average salary: 38,500 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Limited data, variations may occur between city and smaller towns

Education and qualifications

To work as a film technician in development and copying, a high school education with specialization in photography, media, or technology is usually required. Many employers also seek post-secondary courses or certifications in photographic technology and laboratory work. Practical experience and understanding of both chemical and digital processes are important for success in the profession.

• High school education: Specialization in photography, media, or technology (3 years)
• Post-secondary courses: Photographic technology, laboratory techniques (shorter than 3 years)
• Certifications: Specialized training in film development and copying
• Internship: Recommended to gain necessary laboratory experience
• Prerequisites: Basic chemistry and digital image processing

Common benefits and compensations

Among the most common benefits for film technicians in development and copying are collective agreement-based occupational pension, wellness allowance, and opportunities for skills development. Subsidized lunches and insurance through the employer are often offered. Flexible working hours may occur, especially in project-based work or during production peaks.

Competition and challenges

The profession of film technician in development and copying is relatively niche, and competition for available positions can be high, especially in larger cities where the film and media industry is more concentrated. Technological developments have also caused tasks to change rapidly, requiring continuous further training. At the same time, the profession's specialized nature is an advantage for those with the right expertise, as demand for expertise in analog film and preservation projects remains significant. Limited training places and employers may make it difficult to establish oneself without networks or internships.

Tips for those wanting to become a film technician in development and copying

To succeed as a film technician in development and copying, it is good to be analytical and precise, especially when working with chemical processes where small mistakes can impact the final result. A genuine interest in technology facilitates the profession, as it requires understanding both older and modern machines. Patience and the ability to work systematically are important, as many steps require precision and repetition. Practical experience, preferably through internships or part-time jobs, provides valuable insights and contacts in the industry. Good teamwork skills ease collaboration with other technicians and creative professionals. Flexibility and willingness to learn new methods are also assets, as tasks evolve with technology. Finally, an interest in visual language and artistic expression is an advantage, especially for those working in preservation or artistic film production.

Key facts about film technicians in development and copying

• Education level: High school education with post-secondary courses
• Work environment: Laboratories and darkrooms, often project-based
• Typical employment: Permanent or project-based employment
• Demand: Limited number of positions, 1,437 available jobs in the group
• Special skills: Chemical development and digital image processing

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a film technician in development and copying can advance to more specialized roles, such as technical project manager, laboratory manager, or expert in digital restoration of film. There are also opportunities to work in education or as a consultant on larger film and archive projects. According to the Employment Service's occupational forecast, there are limited data to precisely assess future prospects, but within the broader group of machine operators in chemical and photographic products, there are 1,437 available jobs. Digitalization and increased focus on cultural heritage preservation may open new opportunities, but competition for the most specialized roles is expected to remain high.

Frequently asked questions about film technicians in development and copying

• What does a film technician in development and copying earn?
  - The average salary is 38 100 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and education.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 36,900 SEK and men 38,500 SEK, which means women earn approximately 96% of what men do.
• What education is required to become a film technician?
  - High school education with specialization in photography, media, or technology, along with post-secondary courses in photographic technology, are recommended.
• What is the job market like for film technicians?
  - The number of positions is limited, but there are 1,437 available jobs within the broader occupational group.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries in the profession?
  - The highest salary is 39,800 SEK/month and the lowest 36,000 SEK/month, depending on education and sector.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Accuracy, technical interest, and teamwork skills are central qualities for success.
• What benefits are usually offered?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, and skills development opportunities.