Laboratory assistant, photo laboratory

What does a laboratory assistant in a photo laboratory do? – Tasks and work environment

A laboratory assistant in a photo laboratory works with producing, processing, and analyzing photographic material. Tasks may include chemical development of film, digital image processing, quality control of photographic products, and maintenance of laboratory equipment. The work often takes place in specially equipped laboratory environments where precision, organization, and adherence to safety routines are essential. Both manual and automated processes are used, and collaboration with photographers, technicians, and other laboratory assistants is common.

Salary development over time

The salary for laboratory assistants in a photo laboratory has shown a clear upward trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 32,600 SEK per month, which increased to 33 600 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary reached 38 100 SEK, corresponding to an increase of about 17% over two years. This positive salary development can largely be explained by increased demand for specialized technical skills and general wage adjustments within the chemical-technical and photographic industries. Technological advancements and the need for more advanced equipment have also contributed to raising skill requirements and salaries in the profession. Despite the positive trend, some pay gaps between genders remain, with women earning an average of 96% of men's salaries.

Laboratory assistant in a photo laboratory salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 38 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 36,000 SEK/month (female, high school education 3 years)
• Highest salary: 39,800 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, post-secondary education <3 years)
• Hourly wage: 229 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Men 38,500 SEK/month, women 36,900 SEK/month (women 96% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data varies, but generally slightly higher salaries in metropolitan regions

Education and qualifications

To work as a laboratory assistant in a photo laboratory, at least high school education is usually required, preferably with a focus on science or technology. Many employers view post-secondary courses in chemistry, photography, or laboratory techniques positively. Practical experience and knowledge of both analog and digital image processing are often advantageous and can be gained through internships or trainee programs.

• High school education: Science or technical program (3 years)
• Post-secondary courses: In chemistry, photography, or laboratory techniques
• Internships: Experience from a photo laboratory or similar environment is recommended
• Certifications: Some employers may require internal or external safety training
• Prerequisites: Basic computer skills and interest in image processing

Common benefits and compensations

Laboratory assistants in a photo laboratory are often covered by collective agreements that provide vacation pay, occupational pension, and sometimes wellness allowances. Other common benefits include work clothing, subsidized lunch, and opportunities for skills development and further training within laboratory and photographic techniques.

Challenges and competition

The profession of a laboratory assistant in a photo laboratory is characterized by technological development and changing work methods. Digitalization has transformed tasks and set new requirements for skills in image processing and programming. Competition for jobs can vary depending on geographic location and the number of available positions, but within the profession, there were 1,437 job openings according to the latest data. A challenge is keeping up with rapid technological advances while some tasks still require traditional knowledge of chemical processes and analog photo work. The work environment can be demanding, and it is important to handle chemicals and equipment safely and responsibly.

Tips for those who want to become a laboratory assistant in a photo laboratory

To succeed as a laboratory assistant in a photo laboratory, it helps to combine technical interest with accuracy and the ability to work systematically. An eye for detail is valuable in quality control of images and materials, while analytical skills are useful in troubleshooting and problem-solving in the laboratory environment. Showing engagement with both analog and digital techniques can open more opportunities in the job market. Flexibility and adaptability are important traits when new methods or equipment are introduced. Being cooperative facilitates teamwork, which is often integral to the work process. It is also beneficial to stay updated on developments in photographic technology and laboratory work. Finally, a willingness to learn new tools and routines provides good prospects for a long and progressive career in the profession.

Key facts about laboratory assistants in a photo laboratory

• Education level: High school education, often supplemented with post-secondary courses
• Work environment: Laboratory environment with both chemical and digital tasks
• Work mode: Both independent and team-based
• Demand: 1,437 job openings within the profession according to latest statistics
• Special skills: Combination of chemical-technical and photographic expertise

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a laboratory assistant in a photo laboratory, there are opportunities to advance to more specialized roles, such as laboratory technician, production manager, or quality supervisor within photographic production. Development in digital image processing and automated laboratory processes can also lead to opportunities in IT-related image analysis services. The forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that it is difficult to give an exact future outlook for the profession, as it is part of a broader occupational group. However, there are currently a large number of job openings, suggesting a relatively healthy job market. Flexibility and willingness to further educate oneself in new technologies can be crucial for long-term career development.

Frequently asked questions about laboratory assistants in a photo laboratory

• What does a laboratory assistant in a photo laboratory earn?
  - A laboratory assistant in a photo laboratory has an average salary of 38 100 SEK per month.
• Are there pay differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 36,900 SEK and men 38,500 SEK, which means women earn 96% of men's salaries.
• What are the requirements to become a laboratory assistant in a photo laboratory?
  - High school education with a focus on science or technology and preferably additional courses in photography or chemistry.
• What is the job market like?
  - Currently, there are 1,437 job openings within the profession, but the future outlook is uncertain according to the Employment Service.
• What tasks are included in the profession?
  - Tasks include developing photographic material, digital image processing, quality control, and maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• What is the highest and lowest salary within the profession?
  - The highest salary is 39,800 SEK per month and the lowest is 36,000 SEK per month.
• Are there any special benefits offered?
  - Common benefits include vacation pay, occupational pension, wellness allowance, and sometimes subsidized lunch.