Plaster technician

What does a Gipstekniker do? – Tasks and work environment

A Gipstekniker primarily works within healthcare and is responsible for applying, adjusting, and removing plaster casts for fractures and other orthopedic injuries. Tasks also include providing support and advice to patients on cast care, as well as assisting doctors and other healthcare staff during treatments. Gipstekniker often work at orthopedic clinics, emergency departments, or inpatient wards. The work environment is clinical, characterized by close patient contact, high pace, and demands for accuracy and good communication skills.

Salary development over time

The salary for a Gipstekniker has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 27,100 SEK per month. In 2023, it rose to 29 400 SEK, corresponding to an increase of about 8.5%. For 2024, the average salary has continued upward to 30 200 SEK, representing a further increase of 2.7% compared to the previous year. The positive salary trend is linked to increased demand for qualified healthcare personnel and greater specialization within orthopedics. Shortages of trained staff and a focus on patient safety and quality have also contributed to higher salary levels for Gipstekniker. Women have experienced slightly higher salary growth than men during this period, as reflected in recent statistics.

Gipstekniker salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 30 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 26,500 SEK/month (female, public sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 41,700 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, doctoral degree)
• Lowest male salary: 26,800 SEK/month
• Highest male salary: 35,600 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 181 SEK
• Women earn: 30 400 SEK (102% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 29 800 SEK
• Regional differences: Data on regional differences is unavailable

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a Gipstekniker usually involves healthcare education at upper secondary level or equivalent adult education, supplemented with specialized courses and internships. A background as a care assistant is common before further training as a Gipstekniker. Practical experience from orthopedic departments is highly valuable, and some employers may require specific certifications or internal training to ensure the right competence.

• Formal education: Care and social services program or equivalent adult education (3 years)
• Specialized course: Gipstekniker training (often 1–2 semesters, offered at certain vocational colleges and hospitals)
• Internship: Experience from orthopedic ward or clinic is strongly recommended
• Certification: Possibility of internal authorization depending on employer
• Prerequisites: Basic healthcare education and good Swedish skills in speaking and writing

Common benefits and compensations

Gipstekniker are often offered benefits such as extra vacation, wellness allowances, evening and weekend shift premiums, and opportunities for professional development through internal and external training. Pension, healthcare insurance, and occasionally subsidized work clothing are other common benefits within the profession.

Competition and challenges

Competition for Gipstekniker positions is relatively low, but the main challenge lies in acquiring the right skills and experience. Since the role requires both technical skill and empathy, there are high demands for ongoing training and staying updated on new materials and techniques. The lack of formal training pathways can mean that entry routes into the profession vary greatly between employers. Patient flow and workload can also be uneven, requiring flexibility and resilience. The job can be physically demanding, involving heavy lifting and working in awkward positions.

Tips for those wishing to become a Gipstekniker

To succeed as a Gipstekniker, it is good to combine technical precision with a genuine interest in people. Being attentive and empathetic facilitates patient contact and creates a sense of security for those needing cast treatment. Resilience and prioritization skills are important since the pace is often high, especially in emergency departments. Securing internships early provides valuable insight into the profession and increases chances of employment. Good teamwork skills are essential since the work is done in close collaboration with other healthcare professionals. Continually updating oneself on new techniques and materials is also an important step in developing within the profession.

Key facts about Gipstekniker

• Education level: Upper secondary care and social services diploma, supplemented with specialized courses
• Work environment: Hospitals and clinics, often in teams with other healthcare staff
• Work form: Full-time or part-time, often days but also evenings and weekends
• Demand: 375 available jobs in the profession (May 2024)
• Gender distribution: Even, with slight salary advantages for women

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a Gipstekniker, there are opportunities to advance to leadership roles within orthopedic care, such as supervisor for Gipstekniker teams or training coordinator. Further education can also lead to work as an orthopedic engineer or specialist nurse. The prognosis from the Employment Service is uncertain for the Gipstekniker role, as it is part of a larger occupational group without individual assessments. Nevertheless, there is steady demand, with 375 available positions and a long-term need for expertise in orthopedic care. Technological development and increased specialization may further improve career opportunities over time.

Frequently asked questions about Gipstekniker

• What does a Gipstekniker earn?
  - The average salary for a Gipstekniker is 30 200 SEK per month.
• How to become a Gipstekniker?
  - The path goes through healthcare and social care education as well as specialized courses and internships in orthopedics.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn on average 30 400 SEK and men 29 800 SEK, which means women earn 102% of men's salaries.
• Where does a Gipstekniker work?
  - Most work in orthopedic clinics, emergency departments, or inpatient wards at hospitals.
• What are the future prospects?
  - No specific forecast, but there are 375 available jobs according to recent data.
• What is the highest salary for a Gipstekniker?
  - The highest salary is 41,700 SEK/month and belongs to a woman with a doctoral degree in the municipal sector.
• What is the lowest salary for a Gipstekniker?
  - The lowest salary is 26,500 SEK/month and belongs to a woman in the public sector with short pre-secondary education.