Graphic designer, printer

What does a graphic designer, printer do? – Tasks and work environment

A graphic designer, printer primarily works with producing printed materials such as brochures, posters, packaging, and books. The profession often involves managing both digital and analog printing processes, including preparing print layouts, selecting materials, and overseeing printing presses. The work environment can vary from small print shops to large production facilities, and the workday is characterized by a fast pace where accuracy and technical understanding are important qualities. Graphic designers, printers often collaborate with designers, project managers, and clients to ensure the final product meets aesthetic and technical requirements.

Salary development over time

Salary levels for graphic designers, printers have shown a relatively stable trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,100 SEK per month, which slightly decreased to 32 500 SEK in 2023, but increased significantly to 35 000 SEK in 2024. The total increase from 2023 to 2024 is approximately 7.7%, an unusually strong rise in the industry. This salary development can partly be linked to increased demand for specialized graphic services and the industry's adaptation to digitalization and technological innovations. At the same time, the job market for printers has been affected by economic fluctuations and changing production volumes, leading to periodic variations in salary development.

Graphic designer, printer salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 35 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 32,000 SEK/month (female), 34,000 SEK/month (male)
• Highest salary: 37,000 SEK/month (male), 32,300 SEK/month (female)
• Hourly wage: 210 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 89% of what men do (32,000 SEK compared to 35 800 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data varies; metropolitan regions tend to offer slightly higher salaries

Education and qualifications

To work as a graphic designer, printer, a high school education in graphic technology or equivalent is usually required, but further training at a vocational university or specialized courses is also an option. Practical experience and technical understanding of printing processes are crucial, and many employers value both formal education and hands-on skills. Good computer skills and a sense for color and form are also important competencies for success in the profession.

• High school programs: Graphic technology and design (3 years)
• Vocational university: Specialized training in printing technology (1–2 years)
• Certifications: Courses in digital printing and color management
• Internship: Often mandatory part of the education
• Prerequisites: Basic computer skills and interest in technology

Common benefits and compensations

For graphic designers, printers, benefits often include wellness allowances, subsidized lunches, and opportunities for skill development. In some cases, bonus programs, extra vacation days, or collective pension schemes are offered. Flexible working hours are common, especially at larger workplaces with shift work.

Competition and challenges

The profession as a graphic designer, printer is characterized by a competitive job market, where technological development and digitalization demand continuous skill updates. Automation of printing processes has led to fewer traditional printers being in demand, while the need for specialized graphic designers with digital skills is increasing. Success requires quickly adapting to new working methods and software. At the same time, industry changes mean that tasks are becoming more varied and extensive, which can be challenging but also rewarding for those who are flexible and proactive.

Tips for aspiring graphic designers, printers

To succeed as a graphic designer, printer, it is good to have an eye for detail and a strong sense of color and form, as precision is often crucial in the printing process. Those who are technically curious and willing to learn new digital tools have a significant advantage, especially as the industry develops rapidly. Being meticulous and organized helps in handling materials and machines, while creativity and problem-solving skills are often appreciated by employers and clients. Clear communication and teamwork skills are valuable, as work often takes place in teams and in close dialogue with clients. To increase your chances of employment, actively seek internships and build a broad portfolio of projects. Showing engagement and a willingness to develop is highly valued by employers in the printing industry.

Key facts about graphic designers, printers

• Education level: High school diploma with opportunities for further education
• Work environment: Printing houses, production environments, or digital workplaces
• Work arrangements: Full-time, part-time, and hourly employment
• Demand: 1,437 job openings within the profession (2024)
• Special skills: Digital printing, color management, and machine maintenance

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a graphic designer, printer can advance to roles such as production manager, print supervisor, or specialist in digital prepress. There are also opportunities for further education and working in project management or technical support within the printing industry. According to the Employment Service, future prospects are relatively stable, with continued demand for skilled professionals in graphic production despite increased automation. Digital skills and experience with advanced printing processes increase chances for career development and higher salaries. Flexibility and a willingness to learn new skills are important factors for long-term success in the industry.

Frequently asked questions about graphic designers, printers

• What does a graphic designer, printer earn?
  - The average salary is 35 000 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and region.
• Are there significant salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 89% of what men do, corresponding to 32,000 SEK compared to 35 800 SEK.
• What education is required to become a graphic designer, printer?
  - High school education in graphic technology is sufficient, but further training at a vocational university is advantageous.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Demand is stable, with 1,437 job openings recorded in 2024 according to the Employment Service.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a graphic designer, printer?
  - The highest salary is 37,000 SEK for men and 32,300 SEK for women. The lowest salary is 32,000 SEK for women and 34,000 SEK for men.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Precision, technical understanding, teamwork skills, and creativity are highly valued.
• What work arrangements are most common?
  - Full-time is most common, but part-time and hourly employment also occur within the industry.