Laboratory assistant, physical laboratory salary

Introduction to the profession Laboratory Assistant, Physical Laboratory

Working as a Laboratory Assistant in a physical laboratory means being an integral part of the research team, often involved in preparing experiments, handling equipment, and collecting data. This profession falls under the category of other health and care personnel according to the SSYK code and is an important support function within the healthcare sector.

Salary Statistics for Laboratory Assistant, Physical Laboratory

The average salary for a Laboratory Assistant in physical laboratories is 29 400 SEK per month. Women in the profession earn an average of 29 700 SEK, which is 103% of what men in the same occupational role earn, with an average salary of 28 800 SEK. The salary has increased from 27 100 SEK to 29 400 SEK since the last measurement, indicating a positive trend in salary development.

Salary Range

The salary range within the profession is relatively wide. The highest salary for a woman in the profession is 39300 SEK, and the highest salary for a man is 35400 SEK. The lowest salary for a man is 25600 SEK, while the lowest salary for a woman is 25800 SEK.

Hourly Wage

For those who are hourly employees, the average hourly wage is 177 SEK, based on 166 working hours per month. This provides flexibility for those who wish to work part-time or have varying work hours.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

A Laboratory Assistant in a physical laboratory assists in laboratory work by preparing equipment, handling samples, and assisting researchers and technicians in their work. This may include cleaning and sterilizing equipment, documenting experiment results, and ensuring that all materials are correctly labeled and organized.

Educational Paths and Career Opportunities

To become a Laboratory Assistant, a high school education with a focus on natural sciences or technology is usually required. Further education in laboratory technology or similar fields can enhance employability and opportunities for higher salaries. There are also opportunities for further training and specialization in specific laboratory areas.

Benefits and Working Conditions

The working conditions for a Laboratory Assistant may vary depending on the employer and workplace, but standardized working hours and opportunities for paid training to promote skills development are common. The ability to work from home is limited due to the practical nature of laboratory work.

Future Outlook and Challenges

The forecasts from the Employment Service for the occupational group that Laboratory Assistants belong to are limited, making specific assessments difficult. However, the need for laboratory personnel is generally stable, especially in the healthcare sector where the demand for research and development is constant.

Challenges in the Profession

Challenges for a Laboratory Assistant may include managing the stress of time-sensitive projects and the precision required in laboratory work. The work may also involve handling hazardous chemicals and biological substances, requiring strict adherence to safety protocols.

Summary

The profession of Laboratory Assistant in a physical laboratory offers a stimulating work environment with opportunities for development and a stable salary progression. With an average salary of 29 400 SEK and a wide salary range, it offers an attractive career path for those interested in science and laboratory work. Education and experience can lead to higher salaries and specialization opportunities, while working conditions are usually standardized with certain training benefits.