Instrument optician salary

Optician – A Deep Dive into the Profession and Salary

Working as an optician, also known as a precision instrument maker, involves manufacturing, assembling, adjusting, and repairing precision instruments. These instruments can range from optical lenses to medical devices. The profession requires a steady hand, technical expertise, and often a background in mechanics or electronics.

Salary for an Optician

The salary for an optician has shown a positive trend. The average salary has increased from 31 900 SEK to 33 400 SEK. However, there is a noticeable difference between genders; men earn an average of 35 800 SEK, while women earn 28 000 SEK, meaning that women earn 78% of what men do in this profession.

• Average Salary: 33 400 SEK
• Average Salary for Men: 35 800 SEK
• Average Salary for Women: 28 000 SEK
• Highest Salary: 39200 SEK (male, private sector, post-secondary education less than 3 years)
• Lowest Salary: 28 000 SEK (female, unspecified education level)

Hourly-Paid Opticians

For hourly-paid opticians, the average hourly wage is 201 SEK, based on a working month of 166 hours. This results in a monthly salary close to the profession's average, indicating a relatively stable salary structure regardless of employment form.

Education and Skills Requirements

To become an optician, a technical education at the high school level is usually required, preferably in mechanics or electronics. Some employers may also require post-secondary education, especially for more advanced tasks. Many workplaces offer further training and certifications to keep the staff updated with the latest technology.

Working Conditions and Future Outlook

The working environment for an optician is often indoors in laboratory settings or workshops. The work can be physically demanding and often requires high concentration and dexterity. Many employers offer benefits such as paid further education, which can be an advantage for those looking to advance in the profession.

Forecasts for the future are difficult to make due to limited data. According to the assessments of the Swedish Public Employment Service, there is no clear prognosis for the profession as a whole, but there may be good opportunities depending on specialization and niche.

Advantages and Challenges in the Profession

One of the major advantages of working as an optician is the opportunity to work with innovative technology and constantly evolve. However, technological advancements can also pose a challenge; one must constantly update their skills and adapt to new technical environments.

Considerations for Opticians

For those considering a career as an optician, it is important to note that the profession requires precision and patience. The ability to work with small and complex components is crucial. Additionally, a steady hand and a technical interest are important qualities to thrive and succeed in this role.

In conclusion, the profession of an optician offers a stable salary development and opportunities for personal and professional growth. However, there are some challenges, especially regarding gender pay gaps and future outlook, which should be taken into account when considering this profession.