Camera technician

What does a Camera Technician do? – Tasks and work environment

A Camera Technician is responsible for installing, maintaining, and adjusting camera equipment in areas such as TV production, film, security, or industry. The work often involves preparing cameras for filming or broadcasting, performing technical tests, troubleshooting equipment, and ensuring image quality. Collaboration with directors, photographers, and production staff is common to create optimal conditions for various productions. The work environment can vary between TV studios, outdoor locations, and technical workshops, where flexibility and quick problem-solving are central aspects of the profession.

Salary development over time

The salary for a Camera Technician has seen steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,900 SEK per month, increasing to 33 400 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 34 800 SEK, representing an increase of over 9% across three years. This salary development reflects a continued high demand for technical expertise in camera technology, especially as digitalization and production technology become more advanced. Gender differences are significant, and the trend indicates that the industry needs to work further to level these disparities. The higher salary levels can also be linked to more technicians acquiring post-secondary education and the increasing need for specialized knowledge in image technology and equipment management.

Camera Technician salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 34 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 28,300 SEK/month (female), 35,200 SEK/month (male)
• Highest salary: 40,900 SEK/month (male), 35,800 SEK/month (female)
• Hourly wage: 209 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 75% of what men do (28,300 SEK/month vs 37 900 SEK/month)
• Regional differences: Data unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a Camera Technician, a technical education focusing on image, sound, or electronics is often required, usually at high school or post-secondary level. Many employers also seek practical experience in camera technology and production environments. In addition to formal education, ongoing professional development through courses, certifications, and self-study is common to stay updated with rapid technological advances.

• High school education: Electrical and Energy Program or Artistic Program with media specialization
• Post-secondary studies: YH training (1–2 years) in TV production, image technology, or similar
• Certifications: Courses in image technology, camera technology, and AV technology
• Internships: Common during education and an important pathway into the profession
• Prerequisites: Technical interest and understanding of image and sound technology

Common benefits and compensations

Camera Technicians are often offered benefits such as overtime pay for irregular hours, wellness allowances, and opportunities for further training. In some cases, equipment or technical support may be provided by the employer, especially for larger productions. Pension schemes and insurance are common, and project-based employment may include additional allowances for travel or overtime.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a Camera Technician varies depending on the labor market situation and region, but the profession is part of a broader occupational group with currently 341 available jobs. A challenge is the rapid technological development that demands continuous training and adaptability. The industry is also characterized by uneven working conditions, with both permanent and project-based employment, which can impact job security and workload. Gender salary disparities are clear and highlight the need for ongoing efforts toward a more equal labor market. Limited statistics make it difficult to provide precise future forecasts, but technical skills and specialization offer advantages in employment prospects.

Tips for aspiring Camera Technicians

To succeed as a Camera Technician, it’s beneficial to combine a technical interest with openness to new work environments and variable working hours. Precision is important, especially when handling and adjusting advanced equipment for broadcasts or recordings. Being solution-oriented helps with troubleshooting and quick adjustments, often required in fast-paced productions. Social skills and teamwork facilitate collaboration with directors, photographers, and other technical staff. Continuous education and staying updated on the latest technology are crucial to remain competitive. Flexibility makes working irregular hours and at different locations easier. Lastly, a creative mindset allows contributing ideas for visual solutions and production techniques.

Key facts about Camera Technicians

• Education level: High school or post-secondary education in technology/media
• Work environment: Varies – studio, outdoor, workshop
• Common employment: Permanent or project-based
• Demand: 341 available jobs in the field
• Special skills: Camera technology, image technology, troubleshooting

Career paths and outlook

After three to five years of experience, a Camera Technician can advance to roles such as Image Producer, Technical Manager, or specialist in advanced image technology. Opportunities also exist to work internationally or within niche areas like live broadcasts, sports production, or special effects. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, there is currently no specific forecast for the profession, but the number of available jobs is relatively high. Technological development and increasing demand for digital productions are expected to benefit the profession in the long term, although regional and company differences may affect competition.

Frequently asked questions about Camera Technicians

• What does a Camera Technician earn?
  - A Camera Technician has an average salary of 34 800 SEK per month in 2024.
• What education is required to become a Camera Technician?
  - Typically, a high school education in technology or media, often supplemented with post-secondary education or courses.
• What are the gender differences in the profession?
  - Women earn on average 28,300 SEK, which is 75% of men's average salary of 37 900 SEK.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - No available statistics for regional differences within the profession.
• What career opportunities are there for a Camera Technician?
  - After some years of experience, one can advance to roles such as Image Producer, Technical Manager, or specialist in image technology.
• What does the job market look like for Camera Technicians?
  - There are 341 available jobs, but the forecast is uncertain due to limited data.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a Camera Technician?
  - The highest salary is 40,900 SEK (male) and the lowest is 28,300 SEK (female).