Occupational physiotherapist

What does a company physiotherapist do? – Tasks and work environment

A company physiotherapist works to prevent, investigate, and treat work-related discomforts among employees at companies and organizations. Tasks include individual interventions, ergonomic assessments, rehabilitation planning, and advice on work environment and lifestyle. Company physiotherapists are often key resources in systematic occupational health efforts and collaborate closely with employers, occupational health services, HR departments, and other specialists. The work environment features a mix of office work, site visits at workplaces, and clinical examinations in dedicated clinics. Flexibility and the ability to adapt to different work environments are central to the role.

Salary development over time

The salary of a company physiotherapist has shown steady and positive growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 35,700 SEK per month, rising in 2023 to 37 200 SEK. In 2024, the salary increased further to 39 100 SEK, representing approximately a 9.5% increase over three years. This trend reflects increased demand for specialist competence in occupational health, as well as a broader focus on preventive measures to reduce sick leave and improve work capacity. Salary increases have been slightly higher than the average for physiotherapists overall, which can be explained by the additional responsibilities and close work with employers on strategic occupational health issues.

Company physiotherapist salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 39 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,000 SEK/month (male, municipal sector)
• Highest salary: 47,800 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, doctoral studies)
• Hourly wage: 235 SEK
• Women: 38 800 SEK/month
• Men: 39 600 SEK/month
• Women earn: 98% of what men do

Education and qualifications

To work as a company physiotherapist, licensure as a physiotherapist or physical therapist is required, obtained after university studies. Many also choose to pursue further training in occupational health, ergonomics, or occupational medicine to meet the specific demands of the role. Practical experience from clinical work and a good understanding of occupational health issues are advantageous.

• Licensed physiotherapist/physical therapist: 3 years of university education
• Further training in occupational health or ergonomics: 1–2 semesters
• Internship/clinical work: Often requires at least 1–2 years of work experience
• Certification: Some employers require certification in occupational health
• Courses in work environment and rehabilitation: Meritorious for the role

Common benefits and compensations

Company physiotherapists are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, professional development, occupational pension, and sometimes extra vacation days. Access to occupational health resources and opportunities to participate in conferences and training are common.

Competition and challenges

Demand for company physiotherapists remains high, but competition for attractive positions can vary by region and employer. The recruitment situation is characterized by a paradox: while there are difficulties in recruiting, the proportion of part-time workers and those leaving the profession is relatively high. Staying updated on occupational health legislation, evidence-based methods, and digital tools is essential to remain competitive. Challenges often include balancing clinical work with administrative and strategic tasks, and managing workplaces with varying occupational health issues. The ability to communicate and collaborate with different professional groups is a key success factor.

Tips for aspiring company physiotherapists

To succeed as a company physiotherapist, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a genuine interest in occupational health and preventive measures. Being communicative and attentive facilitates collaboration with employees and employers, while a structured approach makes it easier to handle multiple projects simultaneously. Flexibility is important as work environments and tasks often vary between assignments. It is recommended to actively seek experience in both clinical physiotherapy and work-related rehabilitation. Building a network within occupational health can increase opportunities for interesting jobs, and further training in ergonomics or occupational medicine adds clear value. Engagement in development work and a desire to contribute to sustainable workplaces are qualities appreciated by employers.

Key facts about Company Physiotherapists

• Education level: Licensure as a physiotherapist/physical therapist (3 years)
• Work environment: Varied – office, clinic, and site visits
• Demand: Great opportunities for jobs nationwide
• Work form: Often employed within occupational health or as a consultant
• Special skills: Ergonomics, occupational health, rehabilitation

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a company physiotherapist, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as occupational health specialist, team leader in occupational health, or consultant in occupational health development. Some choose to specialize further in areas like ergonomics, rehabilitation coordination, or organizational development. According to the Employment Service, job prospects for physiotherapists and physical therapists are strong, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over five years. There are also good opportunities for those wishing to work in education, supervision, or research within the field. Currently, there are 375 job openings in the profession, indicating a stable labor market.

Frequently asked questions about Company Physiotherapists

• What does a company physiotherapist earn?
  - The average salary is 39 100 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and education.
• How does one become a company physiotherapist?
  - Licensure as a physiotherapist or physical therapist is required, often supplemented with further training in occupational health or ergonomics.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn 98% of what men do within the profession.
• Which workplaces hire company physiotherapists?
  - Common employers include occupational health companies, larger organizations, and public sector entities.
• What are the future prospects?
  - Job opportunities are abundant and demand is expected to remain stable over the next five years.
• What is needed to achieve the highest salary in the profession?
  - Higher education, such as doctoral studies, along with experience and work within the municipal sector can lead to higher salaries.
• What are the biggest challenges in the profession?
  - Balancing clinical and strategic work, and staying updated within occupational health and rehabilitation.