- Salary statistics
- Laboratory, physics salary
Laboratory, physics salary
Latest available salary statistics are for 2025. Compare average pay, salary range and related job listings.
44 500 - 61 000 SEK / month
Women earn 93% of what men do.
Naturvetenskapligt arbete
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Salary progression Laboratory, physics
What does a laboratory technician in physics do? – Tasks and work environment
A laboratory technician in physics primarily works on conducting and developing experimental investigations across various areas of physics. Tasks may include planning and executing laboratory experiments, handling and calibrating advanced equipment, analyzing measurement data, and reporting results. The work often involves close collaboration with researchers, engineers, and technicians within academic settings as well as industry. The work environment is typically laboratory-based, demanding high precision, safety awareness, and the ability to follow detailed instructions. In some cases, the work may also include supervising students or participating in development projects.
Salary development over time
The salary for physics laboratory technicians has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 48,500 SEK, which increased to 49300 SEK in 2023 and reached 53 100 SEK in 2024. This represents an increase of about 6.2% over the period, slightly above the average salary increase on the labor market. Factors driving this development include increased demand for advanced technical skills and the value employers place on laboratory contributions to research and technology development. The salary increase also reflects some competition for qualified scientific personnel, especially in sectors where physical experiments and measurements are central.
Laboratory technician, physics salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 53 100 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 41,600 SEK/month (female, private sector worker, short education)
- Highest salary: 58,500 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, research degree)
- Hourly wage (average): 310 SEK/hour
- Gender differences: Men 54 200 SEK, women 50 300 SEK – women earn 93% of men's salary
- Regional differences: Specific data is lacking, but generally higher salaries in metropolitan regions
Education and qualifications
To work as a laboratory technician in physics, a university degree in physics or a related natural science is usually required. Many employers also value experience from laboratory work or specialized courses in measurement technology or instrument handling. Practical experience in a laboratory setting, either through internships or thesis work, is highly regarded. For more advanced positions, a research degree or specialized certifications can be advantageous.
- Bachelor's degree in physics or equivalent (3 years)
- Master's or research degree provides a competitive edge
- Specialized courses in laboratory techniques and measurement technology
- Internship or thesis work in a laboratory environment
- Knowledge of mathematics and data processing
Many physics laboratories not only contribute to experimental work but also serve as important knowledge centers and mentors for new generations of researchers and technicians. Developing new measurement methods or improving instruments is often a central part of the role and can significantly influence the quality of research results. The profession suits those who enjoy problem-solving and working methodically in a dynamic environment.
Common benefits and compensations
In addition to the base salary, benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, opportunities for skills development, and extra vacation days are often offered. Occupational pensions, insurance, and subsidized lunches are also common, especially within the public sector and larger private employers. Research-related positions may also include conference travel and participation in international projects.
Competition and challenges
Competition for positions as a physics laboratory technician can vary depending on the labor market and region. Since the profession requires high education levels and specialized skills, the number of qualified applicants is often limited, but the number of advertised positions is relatively few in some areas. Technological advancements and digitalization increase the need for ongoing skills development, particularly in instrumentation and data analysis. Staying updated on new methods and safety standards can be challenging, making flexibility and a willingness to learn essential for long-term success.
Tips for those who want to become a laboratory technician in physics
To succeed as a physics laboratory technician, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with an interest in technology and details. A systematic approach facilitates both experiments and reporting, and precision is crucial for ensuring reliable results. Being communicative and able to collaborate with researchers and engineers is a strength, especially in larger projects. Flexibility and curiosity help quickly adopt new methods and techniques, which is important in a changing industry. Actively seeking internships, participating in research projects, and building networks within academia or industry increase the chances of securing attractive positions. Engagement with the subject and a desire to continuously develop your knowledge are particularly valuable in this role.
Key facts about laboratory technicians in physics
- Salary range: 41,600–58,500 SEK/month
- Average salary: 53 100 SEK/month
- Gender difference: Women earn 93% of men's salary
- Education requirement: At least a bachelor's degree in physics, often higher
- Job market: 143 job openings in the "physicists and astronomers" occupation group
Career paths and future outlooks
After three to five years as a physics laboratory technician, there may be opportunities to advance to more specialized roles, such as instrument manager, research engineer, or project leader within research and development. Further education or doctoral studies can open doors to academic positions, higher education, or leadership roles within industry. The Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts for the "physicists and astronomers" group indicate insufficient data for a definitive future outlook, but technological development and the need for advanced measurement techniques suggest continued demand for these skills. Currently, there are 143 job openings in the field, indicating some mobility in the job market.
Frequently asked questions about laboratory technicians in physics
- What does a laboratory technician in physics earn?
- The average salary is 53 100 SEK/month, with a range from 41,600 to 58,500 SEK/month depending on experience, education, and sector. - Are there differences between men and women in the laboratory profession?
- Yes, women earn on average 93% of what men do, which corresponds to 50 300 SEK versus 54 200 SEK per month. - What education is required to become a laboratory technician in physics?
- At least a bachelor's degree in physics or a related subject, often supplemented by a master's or doctoral degree. - What is the work environment like for a laboratory technician in physics?
- Work mainly takes place in laboratories with advanced equipment, often in teams with researchers and technicians. - What are the future prospects for laboratory technicians in physics?
- Prognoses are limited due to scarce data, but technological development and research needs suggest continued demand. - What benefits are common for laboratory technicians in physics?
- Wellness allowances, flexible hours, skills development, and occupational pensions are common benefits. - What career options are available after a few years in the role?
- Possible career paths include instrument manager, research engineer, or project leader within R&D.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 99% | 42300 kr | 42500 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 50900 kr | 51100 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 57600 kr | 57800 kr |
| 55-64 | 65700 kr | 65800 kr | |
| Snitt | 93% | 52900 kr | 53100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 104% | 38900 kr | 38900 kr |
| 25-34 | 101% | 42500 kr | 42600 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 50300 kr | 50500 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 56500 kr | 56700 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 62200 kr | 62300 kr |
| 65-68 | 111% | 62400 kr | 62400 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 51300 kr | 51400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 104% | 38900 kr | 38900 kr |
| 25-34 | 102% | 42400 kr | 42600 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 49400 kr | 49500 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 55800 kr | 55900 kr |
| 55-64 | 93% | 61300 kr | 61300 kr |
| 65-68 | 61200 kr | 61200 kr | |
| Snitt | 95% | 50600 kr | 50700 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 100% | 42500 kr | 42900 kr |
| 35-44 | 95% | 52500 kr | 52800 kr |
| 45-54 | 96% | 58800 kr | 59000 kr |
| 55-64 | 101% | 64700 kr | 65000 kr |
| 65-68 | 105% | 65300 kr | 65300 kr |
| Snitt | 94% | 53100 kr | 53400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 65800 kr | 66100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 65800 kr | 66100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 99% | 42500 kr | 42600 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 51200 kr | 51400 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 57600 kr | 57800 kr |
| 55-64 | 66500 kr | 66600 kr | |
| Snitt | 93% | 54100 kr | 54200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 104% | 38200 kr | 38200 kr |
| 25-34 | 101% | 42400 kr | 42500 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 50500 kr | 50700 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 56600 kr | 56700 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 62200 kr | 62300 kr |
| 65-68 | 111% | 61400 kr | 61400 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 51800 kr | 52000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 104% | 38200 kr | 38200 kr |
| 25-34 | 102% | 42300 kr | 42400 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 49700 kr | 49800 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 55800 kr | 55900 kr |
| 55-64 | 93% | 61800 kr | 61800 kr |
| 65-68 | 60700 kr | 60700 kr | |
| Snitt | 95% | 51200 kr | 51300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 100% | 42600 kr | 42800 kr |
| 35-44 | 95% | 53700 kr | 53900 kr |
| 45-54 | 96% | 60000 kr | 60200 kr |
| 55-64 | 101% | 64300 kr | 64600 kr |
| 65-68 | 105% | 64000 kr | 64000 kr |
| Snitt | 94% | 54700 kr | 55000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 99% | 42000 kr | 42400 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 50300 kr | 50500 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 57500 kr | 57700 kr |
| Snitt | 93% | 50100 kr | 50300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 104% | 39700 kr | 39700 kr |
| 25-34 | 101% | 42700 kr | 43000 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 49700 kr | 49900 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 56400 kr | 56600 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 61900 kr | 61900 kr |
| 65-68 | 111% | 68000 kr | 68000 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 49800 kr | 50100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 104% | 39700 kr | 39700 kr |
| 25-34 | 102% | 42800 kr | 43100 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 48300 kr | 48400 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 55900 kr | 55900 kr |
| 55-64 | 93% | 57200 kr | 57200 kr |
| Snitt | 95% | 48400 kr | 48600 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 100% | 42500 kr | 42900 kr |
| 35-44 | 95% | 51100 kr | 51400 kr |
| 45-54 | 96% | 57200 kr | 57600 kr |
| 55-64 | 101% | 65400 kr | 65500 kr |
| 65-68 | 105% | 67000 kr | 67000 kr |
| Snitt | 94% | 51400 kr | 51800 kr |
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 Laboratory, physics has the SSYK code 2111, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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