- Salary statistics
- Research engineer, physics salary
Research engineer, physics salary
Latest available salary statistics are for 2025. Compare average pay, salary range and related job listings.
49 000 - 61 600 SEK / month
Women earn 95% of what men do.
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Salary progression Research engineer, physics
What does a research engineer in physics do? – Tasks and work environment
A research engineer in physics works on developing and conducting advanced experiments, analyzing data, and contributing to scientific progress across various physics disciplines. Tasks often include designing measurement equipment, simulations, programming, as well as documenting and reporting research results. The environment is usually laboratory- or university-based, where collaboration with researchers and PhD students is a natural part of daily work. High demands are placed on accuracy, analytical skills, and the ability to work independently under time pressure.
Salary development over time
The salary for a research engineer in physics has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 47,500 SEK per month. The following year, 2023, it rose to 52 000, representing an increase of approximately 4.6%. In 2024, the trend continued upward to 54 300, a further increase of about 4.6% compared to the previous year. This salary development reflects both an increased demand for research skills in physics and the overall appreciation of technical professions. The market's need for specialized technical expertise and advanced data analysis skills has likely contributed to the observed salary improvements. The steady and stable growth indicates a strong position for the profession in the job market.
Research Engineer, Physics salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 54 300 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 47,800 SEK/month (female, private sector, short post-secondary education)
- Highest salary: 63,000 SEK/month (male, private sector, doctoral degree)
- Hourly wage (average): 313 SEK
- Women earn: 52 200 SEK/month (95% of men's salary)
- Men earn: 54 900 SEK/month
- Regional differences: Data varies by region, but higher salaries are often found in metropolitan areas and large research institutes.
Education and qualifications
To work as a research engineer in physics, a solid academic background in physics or related technical fields is usually required. Many hold a Master of Science in Engineering or a master's degree in physics, with some progressing to doctoral studies, especially for more advanced or specialized roles. Practical experience from laboratory environments and knowledge in programming, statistics, and data analysis are often crucial for success in the profession.
- Formal degree: Master of Science in Engineering in Technical Physics (5 years) or master's in physics (5 years)
- Research education: Doctoral degree (PhD) may be required for certain positions
- Internships/trainee: Laboratory internships and project work during studies are highly meritorious
- Prerequisites: Strong mathematical and scientific foundation from upper secondary school
- Courses/certifications: Additional training in programming, statistics, or measurement technology can provide competitive advantages
Many research engineers in physics have the opportunity to participate in international collaborations and projects, providing exciting work experiences and valuable networks. This global aspect contributes to the profession's continuous development and offers new technical challenges.
Common benefits and compensations
In addition to the base salary, benefits such as pension schemes, wellness allowances, flexitime, and opportunities for remote work are often offered. Further education, conference participation, and access to advanced technical equipment are other common perks. Some employers also provide extra vacation days and support for international exchanges or research residencies.
Competition and challenges
Despite strong demand for research engineers in physics, competition for the most attractive positions exists, especially at leading research institutes and universities. Challenges include rapid technological advances, requirements for continuous skill development, and a job market where employers seek both deep subject knowledge and broad technical understanding. Additionally, project funding and access to research grants can affect job security. The ability to collaborate across disciplines and adapt to new research methods is crucial for long-term success.
Tips for those aspiring to become research engineers in physics
To succeed as a research engineer in physics, it is beneficial to combine strong analytical skills with curiosity and perseverance. Early internships or summer jobs in research environments help build experience and networks. Precision is a vital trait, especially in experimental work and data analysis, while good communication skills facilitate collaboration and reporting. Keeping up-to-date with new methods and techniques enhances competitiveness, as does the ability to work independently and take initiative. Finally, resilience is important, as research projects often involve long processes and unforeseen challenges.
Key facts about Research Engineer, Physics
- Education level: Master of Science in Engineering or master's, often with research training
- Typical work environment: Laboratory, university, or research institute
- Work form: Project-based and often interdisciplinary collaboration
- Demand: Great opportunities for employment, especially in technical and academic settings
- Special skills: Advanced data analysis, programming, and experimental methodology
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a research engineer in physics, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as project manager, research director, or specialized expert in areas like measurement technology or computer simulations. Many also pursue doctoral studies or move into leadership positions within industry. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, opportunities for employment are plentiful, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. The national recruitment situation is characterized by a shortage of qualified candidates, even as many leave the profession, opening opportunities for recent graduates and specialists. Currently, there are 564 job openings within the group of civil engineers in mechanical engineering, which includes research engineers in physics.
Common questions about Research Engineer, Physics
- What does a Research Engineer in Physics earn?
- The average salary is 54 300 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, education, and employer. - What education is required to become a research engineer in physics?
- Usually, a Master of Science in Engineering or a master's degree in physics, sometimes also a doctoral degree. - Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn on average 95% of what men do in the profession. - What does the job market look like?
- Opportunities for employment are plentiful, and demand is expected to remain stable in the coming years. - What are the tasks of a research engineer in physics?
- Tasks include conducting experiments, data analysis, programming, and reporting within physics research. - What are the career paths?
- After a few years, it is common to take roles such as project manager, research director, or expert within the field. - What benefits are commonly offered?
- Pension schemes, wellness allowances, flexitime, and opportunities for international collaborations are typical.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 97% | 45300 kr | 45600 kr |
| 35-44 | 93% | 54900 kr | 55400 kr |
| 45-54 | 98% | 59000 kr | 59700 kr |
| 55-64 | 97% | 59400 kr | 60200 kr |
| Snitt | 95% | 53800 kr | 54300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 101% | 44400 kr | 44700 kr |
| 35-44 | 102% | 51300 kr | 51800 kr |
| 45-54 | 97% | 56400 kr | 57000 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 58000 kr | 58200 kr |
| 65-68 | 55400 kr | 55400 kr | |
| Snitt | 96% | 54200 kr | 54600 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 101% | 44400 kr | 44700 kr |
| 35-44 | 101% | 51300 kr | 51800 kr |
| 45-54 | 97% | 56400 kr | 57000 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 57900 kr | 58200 kr |
| 65-68 | 55400 kr | 55400 kr | |
| Snitt | 96% | 54200 kr | 54600 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 97% | 45300 kr | 45600 kr |
| 35-44 | 93% | 55000 kr | 55500 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 59100 kr | 59800 kr |
| 55-64 | 97% | 59500 kr | 60300 kr |
| Snitt | 95% | 53800 kr | 54300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 97% | 45300 kr | 45600 kr |
| 35-44 | 93% | 55000 kr | 55500 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 59100 kr | 59800 kr |
| 55-64 | 97% | 59500 kr | 60300 kr |
| Snitt | 95% | 53800 kr | 54300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 97% | 45600 kr | 45900 kr |
| 35-44 | 93% | 55800 kr | 56400 kr |
| 45-54 | 98% | 59200 kr | 59900 kr |
| 55-64 | 97% | 59700 kr | 60500 kr |
| Snitt | 95% | 54400 kr | 54900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 101% | 44200 kr | 44700 kr |
| 35-44 | 102% | 51100 kr | 51600 kr |
| 45-54 | 97% | 56600 kr | 57300 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 58100 kr | 58300 kr |
| 65-68 | 55400 kr | 55400 kr | |
| Snitt | 96% | 54600 kr | 55000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 101% | 44200 kr | 44700 kr |
| 35-44 | 101% | 51100 kr | 51600 kr |
| 45-54 | 97% | 56600 kr | 57300 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 58000 kr | 58300 kr |
| 65-68 | 55400 kr | 55400 kr | |
| Snitt | 96% | 54600 kr | 55000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 97% | 45600 kr | 45900 kr |
| 35-44 | 93% | 55900 kr | 56400 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 59200 kr | 60000 kr |
| 55-64 | 97% | 59800 kr | 60600 kr |
| Snitt | 95% | 54400 kr | 54900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 97% | 45600 kr | 45900 kr |
| 35-44 | 93% | 55900 kr | 56400 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 59200 kr | 60000 kr |
| 55-64 | 97% | 59800 kr | 60600 kr |
| Snitt | 95% | 54400 kr | 54900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 97% | 44400 kr | 44600 kr |
| 35-44 | 93% | 52100 kr | 52400 kr |
| 45-54 | 98% | 58400 kr | 59000 kr |
| 55-64 | 97% | 58100 kr | 58700 kr |
| Snitt | 95% | 51800 kr | 52200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 101% | 44800 kr | 44900 kr |
| 35-44 | 102% | 51900 kr | 52400 kr |
| 45-54 | 97% | 55600 kr | 55800 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 57500 kr | 57500 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 52800 kr | 53000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 101% | 44800 kr | 44900 kr |
| 35-44 | 101% | 52000 kr | 52300 kr |
| 45-54 | 97% | 55600 kr | 55800 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 57500 kr | 57500 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 52800 kr | 52900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 97% | 44400 kr | 44600 kr |
| 35-44 | 93% | 52100 kr | 52400 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 58500 kr | 59100 kr |
| 55-64 | 97% | 58100 kr | 58700 kr |
| Snitt | 95% | 51800 kr | 52100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 97% | 44400 kr | 44600 kr |
| 35-44 | 93% | 52100 kr | 52400 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 58500 kr | 59100 kr |
| 55-64 | 97% | 58100 kr | 58700 kr |
| Snitt | 95% | 51800 kr | 52100 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 Research engineer, physics has the SSYK code 2144, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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