Laboratory engineer, chemistry

What does a laboratory engineer in chemistry do? – Tasks and work environment

A laboratory engineer in chemistry works with planning, conducting, and analyzing chemical experiments and tests. Tasks often include sampling, preparing chemical solutions, handling advanced laboratory equipment, and documenting results. The role requires precision, analytical skills, and the ability to follow safety routines, as work often takes place in laboratory environments with chemicals and sensitive equipment. Laboratory engineers in chemistry are found in both private and public sectors, such as research institutes, pharmaceutical companies, environmental laboratories, or manufacturing industries.

Salary development over time

The profession of laboratory engineer in chemistry has shown steady salary increases over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 38,700 SEK per month, which increased to 39 900 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has risen further to 41 700 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 7.8% over the period. This positive trend can be partly explained by increased demand for qualified laboratory expertise, especially in the pharmaceutical and environmental sectors, as well as higher requirements for specialized education and experience. The difference between genders has persisted, with women earning about 96% of men's salaries in the profession. It is clear that the market values experience and advanced education highly, which is also reflected in salary development.

Laboratory engineer chemistry salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 41 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,800 SEK/month (woman, private employee, high school education)
• Highest salary: 52,000 SEK/month (woman, private employee, postgraduate education)
• Hourly wage (average): 251 SEK
• Women: 40 900 SEK/month (96% of men's salary)
• Men: 42 600 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data varies, but generally higher salaries in metropolitan regions

Education and qualifications

To work as a laboratory engineer in chemistry, a university degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, or a related scientific field is usually required. Employers often value practical experience from laboratory environments as well as further training or certifications in relevant analysis methods and safety procedures. Some positions may require postgraduate studies, especially in research-intensive companies or organizations.

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry or chemical engineering (3 years): Most common basic education
• Master's or doctoral studies: Meritorious for advanced positions
• Internships/trainee programs: Often required or highly advantageous
• Certifications: For example, in laboratory analysis or safety
• Courses in instrument handling and quality work: Important for specialization

Common benefits and compensations

Laboratory engineers in chemistry are often covered by collective agreements, which include benefits such as occupational pension, insurance, flexitime, and wellness allowances. Other common compensations include opportunities for skills development, extra vacation days, and sometimes bonus programs or performance-based pay, especially in the private sector. Access to modern laboratory equipment and support for further education are also common.

Competition and challenges

The job market for laboratory engineers in chemistry is generally stable, but competition for the most attractive positions can be tough, especially in metropolitan areas and research-intensive regions. Developments in technology and automation increase demands for digital skills and advanced instrument handling. At the same time, high requirements for documentation, quality assurance, and compliance with safety regulations are expected. Challenges also include staying updated on new analysis methods and managing sometimes high work pace, especially near deadlines or with complex experiments.

Tips for those who want to become a laboratory engineer in chemistry

To succeed as a laboratory engineer in chemistry, it is good to develop both analytical skills and precision, as the work often requires exact measurements and interpretation of results. Being communicative facilitates collaboration in interdisciplinary teams, where exchanging information and ideas is crucial. Flexibility and adaptability are important qualities when new methods or instruments are introduced at the workplace. It is also wise to seek internships early to build practical experience and networks within the industry. Continuously furthering your education, such as through courses in new analysis methods, enhances competitiveness in the job market. A structured approach to work makes documentation and quality assurance easier, which are central in the profession. Finally, showing interest in developments within the chemical industry is advantageous, as innovation often drives new tasks and career opportunities.

Key facts about laboratory engineers in chemistry

• Educational level: Bachelor's degree or higher in chemistry/chemical engineering
• Work environment: Laboratories within industry, research, and public sector
• Typical employment form: Full-time, often daytime but some shift work occurs
• Gender distribution: Even, but some salary difference in favor of men
• Demand: 564 available jobs within the profession (2024)

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a laboratory engineer in chemistry can advance to specialist roles, project manager, or quality manager within laboratory operations. Further education, such as a master's or doctoral degree, opens opportunities for research positions or leadership roles in research and development. The employment service's forecasts for the profession of laboratory engineers are cautious due to limited data, but technological development and the increasing need for chemistry expertise in environmental, pharmaceutical, and industrial sectors suggest continued good prospects. The job market is particularly strong in metropolitan regions and within research-intensive companies.

Frequently asked questions about laboratory engineers in chemistry

• What does a laboratory engineer in chemistry earn?
  - The average salary is 41 700 SEK per month, but it varies between 31,800 SEK and 52,000 SEK depending on experience, education, and employment type.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 40 900 SEK while men earn 42 600 SEK per month, which means women earn 96% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a laboratory engineer in chemistry?
  - Usually, at least a bachelor's degree in chemistry or chemical engineering is required, but further education and internships are often advantageous.
• What is the job market like?
  - There are 564 available jobs within the profession, and demand is especially high in metropolitan areas and within research.
• What tasks does a laboratory engineer in chemistry perform?
  - Tasks include chemical analysis, sampling, instrument handling, documentation, and participation in research projects.
• What opportunities are there for further education?
  - There are good opportunities for further education through courses, certifications, and doctoral studies for those who want to specialize or advance.
• How much variation is there in salaries within the profession?
  - The salary range is significant, from 31,800 SEK to 52,000 SEK depending on education, sector, and experience.