What does a research engineer in chemistry earn?

The average salary is 52,300 kronor per month, with variations depending on experience, education, and employer.

How do salary differences between women and men look?

Men earn an average of 54,200 kronor, women 49,800 kronor, which means women earn 92% of men's salaries.

What education is required to become a research engineer in chemistry?

Typically, a Master of Science in Engineering or a master's degree in chemistry/chemical engineering is required, sometimes also doctoral studies.

What tasks does a research engineer in chemistry perform?

Tasks include experimental research, analysis, method development, and documentation in laboratory environments.

What is the job market like for research engineers in chemistry?

Demand is good, especially in larger cities and research-intensive companies, with a total of 564 job openings in the profession.

What benefits are common in the profession?

Occupational pension, skills development, wellness contributions, and sometimes bonus programs are common benefits.

Research engineer, chemistry salary

53 900 SEK

Civil engineering professions in chemistry and chemical engineering

Latest available salary statistics are for 2025. Compare average pay, salary range and related job listings.

50 400 - 61 300 SEK / month

Women earn 92% of what men do.

Tekniskt arbete

Average salary 53 900 SEK/month Monthly gross salary

Salary range 50 400 - 61 300 SEK Latest available range Data year 2025 Latest published dataset

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Salary trend About the role What does a research engineer in chemistry do? – Tasks and work environment Salary development over time Research engineer in chemistry salary – comprehensive overview Open jobs Related occupations About the data

Salary progression Research engineer, chemistry

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What does a research engineer in chemistry do? – Tasks and work environment

A research engineer in chemistry primarily works on developing and conducting experimental studies, analyzing chemical processes, and contributing to research projects within both academic and industrial settings. Tasks often include planning laboratory experiments, interpreting results, developing new methods, and documenting research data. Collaboration frequently occurs in interdisciplinary teams where communication skills and precision are crucial. The work environment is characterized by advanced laboratory equipment, high safety standards, and a combination of practical and theoretical work.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salary development for research engineers in chemistry has shown steady growth. In 2022, the average salary was 49200 kronor per month, increasing to 52 300 kronor in 2023, representing an increase of about 4.7%. Between 2023 and 2024, the salary continued to rise to 53 900 kronor, an increase of an additional 1.6%. This trend reflects ongoing demand for qualified chemistry expertise, especially in research-intensive industries and academic institutions. The market is influenced by technological advances, increased investments in green chemistry and sustainability, which drive the need for specialists and thus salary increases.

Research engineer in chemistry salary – comprehensive overview

Average salary: 53 900 SEK/month
Lowest salary: 48,500 SEK/month (female, shorter than 3-year post-secondary education)
Highest salary: 56,800 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, doctoral degree)
Hourly wage: 315 SEK/hour
Gender differences: Men 55 700 SEK, women 51 500 SEK (women earn 92% of men's salary)
Regional differences: Varies depending on labor market and proximity to larger universities or research-intensive companies

Many research engineers in chemistry have opportunities to work internationally or participate in global research projects, which provide valuable experience and contacts worldwide. International collaborations are especially common in the pharmaceutical industry and environmental technology.

– statsskuld.se

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a research engineer in chemistry usually involves a Master of Science in Engineering or a master's degree in chemistry or chemical engineering. Many employers also require doctoral studies or experience with advanced laboratory work. Practical experience, such as through thesis work or internships, is highly valued. In-depth knowledge in specific areas such as organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, or materials science can be advantageous.

Master of Science in Engineering in Chemistry/Chemical Engineering: 5 years
Master’s or graduate degree: 1–2 years after bachelor’s degree
Doctoral studies (PhD): Recommended for advanced research positions
Internship/thesis work: Usually within industry or at universities
Special courses and certifications: In areas such as laboratory safety or advanced analysis

Common benefits and compensations

Besides the base salary, research engineers in chemistry often receive benefits such as occupational pension, extra vacation days, wellness contributions, and subsidized lunch. Larger companies may also offer bonus programs, skills development, and opportunities for international assignments. Employment at universities sometimes provides access to research resources, conferences, and flexible working hours.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a research engineer in chemistry varies by region and specialization, but demand is generally good in larger cities and research-intensive fields. Challenges can include rapid technological changes, requirements for continuous further education, and adapting to new research areas. Staying updated with the latest technology and developing specialized skills in areas like sustainable chemistry or drug development are crucial to remain attractive in the job market. Additionally, project-based funding and dependence on external research grants can create some job insecurity.

Tips for those aspiring to become a research engineer in chemistry

To succeed as a research engineer in chemistry, it’s helpful to combine analytical precision with a genuine curiosity for new technologies and methods. A strong problem-solving focus aids in handling complex research questions and finding innovative solutions, especially in developing new processes. Being communicative facilitates collaboration with other researchers and effective documentation of results. Early internships during education are beneficial for gaining valuable laboratory experience and establishing contacts in the industry. Flexibility and quick adaptation to new knowledge are important traits as the research field constantly evolves. Engaging in international projects or networks broadens perspectives. Finally, continuous education in current chemical specialties and techniques is advisable.

Key facts about research engineers in chemistry

Education level: Master of Science in Engineering or master’s in chemistry/chemical engineering
Work environment: Advanced laboratories and research settings
Work form: Usually full-time, sometimes project-based employment
Demand: Good, especially in larger cities and research-intensive companies
Special skills: Laboratory techniques, analytical methods, and project management

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a research engineer in chemistry, opportunities include advancing to project manager, specialist, or senior researcher within companies or academic institutions. Some choose to pursue doctoral studies or postdoctoral positions to expand their research opportunities further. Others move into leadership roles in laboratory operations or product development. According to the latest assessment from the Employment Service, there is no specific forecast for this profession due to limited data, but the overall outlook for chemical engineers and chemical technologists shows good demand and several available positions – a total of 564 job openings in the broader profession. The future prospects are thus positive, especially for those with specialized skills and international project experience.

Common questions about research engineers in chemistry

What does a research engineer in chemistry earn?
- The average salary is 53 900 kronor per month, with variations depending on experience, education, and employer.
How do salary differences between women and men look?
- Men earn an average of 55 700 kronor, women 51 500 kronor, which means women earn 92% of men's salaries.
What education is required to become a research engineer in chemistry?
- Usually, a Master of Science in Engineering or a master's degree in chemistry/chemical engineering, sometimes also doctoral studies.
What tasks does a research engineer in chemistry perform?
- Tasks include experimental research, analysis, method development, and documentation in laboratory environments.
What is the job market like for research engineers in chemistry?
- Demand is good, especially in larger cities and research-intensive companies, with a total of 564 job openings in the profession.
What benefits are common in the profession?
- Occupational pension, skills development, wellness contributions, and sometimes bonus programs are common benefits.

Richard Andersson - 2025-07-11 01:45:47

Occupation

Salary distributed by age and sector

Age	Women's salary as a percentage of men's	Base salary	Monthly salary
25-34	97%	44100 kr	44700 kr
35-44	90%	51800 kr	52900 kr
45-54	103%	58500 kr	59300 kr
55-64	90%	59200 kr	60000 kr
Snitt	92%	53100 kr	53900 kr

Age	Women's salary as a percentage of men's	Base salary	Monthly salary
25-34	97%	44100 kr	44700 kr
35-44	90%	51800 kr	52900 kr
45-54	103%	58500 kr	59300 kr
55-64	90%	59200 kr	60000 kr
Snitt	92%	53100 kr	53900 kr

Age	Women's salary as a percentage of men's	Base salary	Monthly salary
25-34	97%	44100 kr	44700 kr
35-44	90%	51800 kr	52900 kr
45-54	103%	58500 kr	59300 kr
55-64	90%	59200 kr	60000 kr
Snitt	92%	53100 kr	53900 kr

Age	Women's salary as a percentage of men's	Base salary	Monthly salary
25-34	97%	44600 kr	45400 kr
35-44	90%	53500 kr	55000 kr
45-54	103%	57700 kr	58700 kr
55-64	90%	61300 kr	62300 kr
Snitt	92%	54600 kr	55700 kr

Age	Women's salary as a percentage of men's	Base salary	Monthly salary
25-34	97%	44600 kr	45400 kr
35-44	90%	53500 kr	55000 kr
45-54	103%	57700 kr	58700 kr
55-64	90%	61300 kr	62300 kr
Snitt	92%	54600 kr	55700 kr

Age	Women's salary as a percentage of men's	Base salary	Monthly salary
25-34	97%	44600 kr	45400 kr
35-44	90%	53500 kr	55000 kr
45-54	103%	57700 kr	58700 kr
55-64	90%	61300 kr	62300 kr
Snitt	92%	54600 kr	55700 kr

Age	Women's salary as a percentage of men's	Base salary	Monthly salary
25-34	97%	43800 kr	44100 kr
35-44	90%	49200 kr	49600 kr
45-54	103%	59500 kr	60200 kr
55-64	90%	55700 kr	56200 kr
Snitt	92%	51100 kr	51500 kr

Age	Women's salary as a percentage of men's	Base salary	Monthly salary
25-34	97%	43800 kr	44100 kr
35-44	90%	49200 kr	49600 kr
45-54	103%	59500 kr	60200 kr
55-64	90%	55700 kr	56200 kr
Snitt	92%	51100 kr	51500 kr

Age	Women's salary as a percentage of men's	Base salary	Monthly salary
25-34	97%	43800 kr	44100 kr
35-44	90%	49200 kr	49600 kr
45-54	103%	59500 kr	60200 kr
55-64	90%	55700 kr	56200 kr
Snitt	92%	51100 kr	51500 kr

* Empty columns indicate that the statistical data was insufficient to allow for a statistically significant conclusion.

Salary per sector

Salary based on education

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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, chemistry has the SSYK code 2145, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.