Salary progression Laboratory assistant, microbiological laboratory

Average salary 40 600 kr
Males 41 000 kr
Females 40 600 kr

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

A laboratory assistant in a microbiological laboratory prepares, conducts, and documents analyses of microorganisms. Common tasks include sampling, culturing bacteria and fungi, using specialized laboratory equipment, and recording results in data systems. The work is often performed in teams with biomedical analysts, doctors, and researchers, where precision and adherence to safety protocols are essential. The work environment emphasizes high standards of hygiene and safety, and many tasks are carried out in laboratories with protective gear.

Salary development over time

The salary for microbiological laboratory assistants has increased steadily over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,200 SEK, rising to 41 200 SEK in 2023 and reaching 40 600 SEK in 2024. This development represents a total increase of approximately 10.7% over three years, with a particularly clear rise between 2023 and 2024. The salary growth reflects a continued high demand for qualified laboratory staff, especially in microbiology, where increasing requirements for competence and specialization are noted in both the public and private sectors. Market needs for laboratory assistants have also been influenced by technological advances and increased volumes of sample analyses, contributing to positive salary development.

Laboratory assistant, microbiological laboratory salary – comprehensive overview

  • Average salary: 40 600 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 28,600 SEK/month (female, public sector)
  • Highest salary: 57,300 SEK/month (female, private sector, research-trained)
  • Hourly wage (average): 248 SEK
  • Women: 40 600 SEK/month (99% of men's salary)
  • Men: 41 000 SEK/month
  • Regional differences: Data unavailable, but variations may occur depending on labor market and employer.

Education and qualifications

To work as a laboratory assistant in a microbiological laboratory, a high school diploma with a science or technical orientation, along with supplementary training in laboratory technology or microbiology, is generally required. Many employers also seek experience from laboratory work or specific certifications. Internships and trainee programs are common to strengthen practical skills and improve employability.

  • High school diploma: Science or technical program (3 years)
  • Post-secondary education: Laboratory technology, microbiology, or biomedicine (1–2 years)
  • Certifications: Specialized courses in laboratory methods and safety
  • Internship: Laboratory internships during education or as a trainee
  • Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of chemistry, biology, and laboratory work

Many laboratory assistants quickly get the opportunity to work with advanced technology and participate in research projects, providing a unique insight into the latest developments in microbiology and medical research.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Laboratory assistants in microbiological laboratories are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, subsidized lunches, skills development, and extra vacation days. Occupational pension schemes and various insurances are typically included, especially in the public sector. Shift work may also involve overtime pay and additional compensation.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for microbiological laboratory assistants is characterized by high demand but also increasing requirements for specialized competence and flexibility. The recruitment situation is paradoxical: it is difficult to find qualified personnel while many are leaving the profession or working part-time. Challenges include rapid technological changes, high demands for documentation and quality assurance, and the need for ongoing training. Competition for the most attractive positions is greatest in metropolitan areas and leading research institutes.

Tips for those who want to become a microbiological laboratory assistant

To succeed as a laboratory assistant in a microbiological laboratory, it is helpful to have a strong sense of accuracy, as many tasks require precision and attention to detail. Curiosity and interest in technology and science facilitate learning new methods and instruments. Good collaboration skills are crucial since the work is often team-based, and a communicative personality contributes to smoother workflows. Flexibility and adaptability help when tasks change quickly or unexpected situations arise. Early internships and networking with professionals strengthen chances of employment, and a structured approach makes it easier to handle the high demands for documentation and quality.

Key facts about microbiological laboratory assistants

  • Education level: High school diploma with supplementary laboratory education
  • Work environment: Laboratory-based with high safety requirements
  • Demand: Very high, especially in public sector and research
  • Typical work form: Full-time, day shifts or shift work
  • Special skills: Microbiological analysis and laboratory techniques

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, opportunities open for specialization within microbiological fields or further education as a biomedical analyst or laboratory engineer. It is also common for laboratory assistants to advance to supervisory roles or be responsible for training new colleagues. According to the Employment Service, the job prospects for biomedical analysts, which include laboratory assistants, are very good. Over five years, demand is expected to remain unchanged, but recruitment remains challenging due to high requirements and attrition. For those wishing to develop further, there are good opportunities for specialization and participation in research projects.

Frequently asked questions about microbiological laboratory assistants

  • What does a microbiological laboratory assistant earn?
    - The average salary is 40 600 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, education, and employer.
  • How do gender differences in salary look?
    - Women earn an average of 40 600 SEK per month, which corresponds to 99% of men's salary at 41 000 SEK.
  • What education is required to become a laboratory assistant?
    - A high school diploma with a science orientation and supplementary training in laboratory technology or microbiology is recommended.
  • What tasks does a microbiological laboratory assistant perform?
    - Tasks include sampling, culturing, analyzing, and documenting microorganisms.
  • What are the future prospects for laboratory assistants?
    - Demand is very high according to the Employment Service and is expected to stay unchanged over the next five years.
  • Are there salary differences between regions?
    - Regional variations may occur, but detailed statistics are lacking for this profession.
  • What career paths are available?
    - Opportunities to further train as a biomedical analyst, laboratory engineer, or in leadership roles.

Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Laboratory assistant, microbiological laboratory is 55300 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Government sector with a post-secondary education, 3 years or more. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 45400 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Laboratory assistant, microbiological laboratory is 27400 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Public sector. The lowest salary for a woman in this profession is 27600 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
18-24 29300 kr 31100 kr
25-34 96% 34600 kr 35900 kr
35-44 97% 39100 kr 40400 kr
45-54 96% 42200 kr 43800 kr
55-64 102% 43600 kr 45000 kr
65-68 45800 kr 47900 kr
Snitt 99% 39200 kr 40600 kr
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
Register an account before you can comment

To write a comment you need to create an account.


Default Avatar

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 assistant, microbiological laboratory has the SSYK code 3212, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

Search salary statistics for occupation
8000 kr
90000 kr
Vacant jobs
Similar occupations

Compare salary, work tasks and job outlook in adjacent occupations to find roles with similar skills or pay levels.

  • Read more about working as Home care assistant

    Average salary: 29 600 SEK/month • Hälso- & sjukvård

    Compare with Laboratory assistant, microbiological laboratory

    Wed, 24 Jun 2026 - 08:05
  • Read more about working as Clinical pathologist

    Average salary: 98 000 SEK/month • Hälso- & sjukvård

    Compare with Laboratory assistant, microbiological laboratory

    Wed, 24 Jun 2026 - 09:45
  • Read more about working as Inspection veterinarian

    Average salary: 54 800 SEK/month • Hälso- & sjukvård

    Compare with Laboratory assistant, microbiological laboratory

    Wed, 24 Jun 2026 - 12:13
  • Read more about working as Histopathology Assistant

    Average salary: 40 600 SEK/month • Hälso- & sjukvård

    Compare with Laboratory assistant, microbiological laboratory

    Wed, 24 Jun 2026 - 12:09
  • Read more about working as Dog nurse

    Average salary: 34 800 SEK/month • Hälso- & sjukvård

    Compare with Laboratory assistant, microbiological laboratory

    Wed, 24 Jun 2026 - 12:12
  • Read more about working as Assistant nurse, care and specialist department

    Average salary: 35 000 SEK/month • Hälso- & sjukvård

    Compare with Laboratory assistant, microbiological laboratory

    Wed, 24 Jun 2026 - 14:12
Latest posts
  • Promocode - Discount code for Smartphoto
    Mon, 22 Jun 2026 - 12:00
  • Public Opinion - Novus Opinion Poll 2026-06-17 – Social Democrats Lose
    Wed, 17 Jun 2026 - 09:35
  • National Debt - National Debt – Level, GDP Share, and Development to 2026
    Mon, 8 Jun 2026 - 09:59
  • Inflation - Inflation May 2026 – KPIF Rises to 1.5 Percent
    Thu, 4 Jun 2026 - 08:30
  • Tips - Create a Professional Website with AI - That's Why I Built Deffe.com
    Tue, 19 May 2026 - 22:28
  • Municipality -
    Tue, 19 May 2026 - 00:35
Salary, Taxes, and Fees
Net salary 31 390
Net salary
31 390
Taxes
11 718
Fees
12 582

With our Swedish tax calculator, you can easily calculate your after-tax income (net salary).

Swedish Church Member

* Updated with 2026 taxes