- Salary statistics
- Conservator, paper
Conservator, paper
41 395 - 39 779 kr / month
Kultur, media, design
Salary progression Conservator, paper
What does a paper conservator do? – Tasks and work environment
A paper conservator is responsible for preserving, restoring, and protecting various paper-based objects, such as historical documents, books, posters, and artworks. The work involves analyzing damages, choosing appropriate conservation methods, and documenting processes carefully. Many work in museums, archives, or libraries, but assignments can also be carried out for private collections or within cultural heritage preservation. The work environment often resembles a laboratory, with special control of light, temperature, and humidity to ensure optimal conditions for sensitive materials.
Salary development over time
The salary development for paper conservators has been positive over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,200 SEK per month, increasing to 38 400 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average monthly salary is 39 779 SEK. This represents a total increase of approximately 10% over three years. The salary increases can partly be explained by an increased focus on cultural heritage preservation and higher demand for specialist skills within museums and archives. Meanwhile, the general wage trend in the cultural sector has been stable, benefiting the profession. Lack of detailed statistics on gender and regional differences makes it difficult to analyze potential differences between groups in more detail.
Paper conservator salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 39 779 SEK/month
- Lowest/highest salary: Data unavailable for exact levels
- Hourly wage: 239 SEK/hour
- Gender differences: Salary data not available by gender
- Regional differences: No available data on regional salary differences
Education and qualifications
To work as a paper conservator, a university or college degree in conservation is usually required, often with specialization in paper and graphics. The profession demands high levels of both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, and many employers value experience from internships or trainee programs. Continuing education in new techniques and materials is common, as methods and standards are constantly evolving.
- Formal education: Bachelor's (3 years) or master's (2 years) in conservation, often with a focus on paper
- Internships/trainee: Internships during studies or trainee positions at museums and archives
- Certifications: Certification options through industry organizations
- Prerequisites: High school diploma, often with a focus on science or art
- Further training: Courses and workshops on new conservation techniques
Working as a paper conservator often involves close collaboration with researchers, art historians, and other specialists. The ability to communicate and cooperate across disciplines is therefore just as important as technical craftsmanship.
Common benefits and compensation
Paper conservators often have access to benefits such as wellness allowances, paid training days, and extra vacation days. In some cases, flexible working hours and skill development through internal or external courses are offered. Pension schemes and insurance are typically included in employment conditions, especially with public employers like museums and archives.
Competition and challenges
The job market for paper conservators is relatively small and niche, which can lead to fierce competition for permanent positions. Many work project-based or as consultants, especially in connection with major restoration projects or temporary exhibitions. Challenges often involve staying updated on new materials and methods, working under time pressure, and sometimes with limited resources. There is also a constant need to balance preservation requirements with the aesthetic and historical values of objects. The limited availability of specialist positions makes mobility and flexibility important for success in the profession.
Tips for aspiring paper conservators
To succeed as a paper conservator, it’s helpful to have a strong interest in both art and science, as well as a meticulous and analytical approach. Patience is crucial, as restoration work often requires prolonged concentration and precision. Good collaboration skills are an asset, as work is often done in teams with other experts. Engagement with industry organizations and networking within the cultural sector can facilitate career start. It’s also important to stay curious about new techniques and methods, as the profession is constantly evolving. Being communicative and able to document work clearly is appreciated by employers. Finally, flexibility and willingness to work on projects or travel as needed are advantageous.
Key facts about Paper Conservator
- Education level: Bachelor's or master's in conservation
- Work environment: Museums, archives, specialized laboratories
- Typical employment: Project-based or consulting roles
- Demand: Limited permanent positions, about 620 job openings within the profession
- Special skills: Material knowledge and restoration techniques
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession, a paper conservator can advance to more specialized projects, become responsible for larger collections, or work as a specialist within major institutions. Opportunities also exist to further education and take roles as project managers or trainers in conservation. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, it’s not possible to provide an exact forecast for the future, as statistics for the profession are limited. However, within the field of art and similar sectors, there are about 620 job openings, indicating moderate but stable demand. Competition for permanent positions is high, but there is room for freelance or project-based work, especially for those who are flexible and possess broad skills.
Frequently asked questions about Paper Conservator
- What does a paper conservator earn?
- The average salary is 39 779 SEK per month. - What education is required to become a paper conservator?
- Typically, a bachelor's or master's degree in conservation, preferably with specialization in paper. - What does the job market look like for paper conservators?
- The job market is niche with a limited number of permanent positions, but approximately 620 job openings are available within the profession. - What workplaces are common for paper conservators?
- Museums, archives, libraries, and private collections are common workplaces. - What personal qualities are important in the profession?
- Meticulousness, patience, analytical skills, and good collaboration abilities are particularly valuable. - Are there opportunities for further education?
- Yes, continuing education and specialized courses are common to stay updated on new methods. - What is the salary level for hourly-employed paper conservators?
- The hourly wage averages 239 SEK.
Salary distributed by age and sector
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 Conservator, paper has the SSYK code 2651, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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