Laboratory technician, chemistry

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

A laboratory technician in chemistry primarily works with conducting analyses, tests, and experiments on chemical substances in a laboratory setting. The work includes sampling, preparing solutions, calibrating, maintaining advanced laboratory equipment, and documenting results. The technician often collaborates with chemists, laboratory engineers, and researchers to ensure that laboratory processes meet quality standards and safety regulations. The work environment is usually indoors in specially equipped laboratories, where precision and work routines are crucial for safety and reliable results.

Salary development over time

Salary development for chemistry-focused laboratory technicians has been steadily increasing over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 38,700 SEK, which increased to 39 900 SEK in 2023 and reached 41 700 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to an increase of approximately 7.7% over three years. This trend can be partly explained by continued high demand for technical expertise in laboratory operations, especially in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries. Salaries have also been influenced by higher education requirements and technical specialization. At the same time, the job market remains relatively stable, with noticeable competition for qualified laboratory technicians, which further drives up salaries.

Laboratory technician chemistry salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 41 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,800 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, high school education)
• Highest salary: 52,000 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, postgraduate degree)
• Highest salary for men: 50,400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary for men: 37,000 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 251 SEK/hour
• Women’s salary in relation to men: 96%
• Average salary for men: 42 600 SEK/month
• Average salary for women: 40 900 SEK/month

Education and qualifications

The foundation for a career as a laboratory technician in chemistry is usually a high school education with a science/technology focus, often supplemented with post-secondary vocational training or university degree in chemistry or biochemistry. Many employers also value laboratory experience and knowledge of specific analysis methods. Practical experience, such as through internships or trainee programs, is often a requirement for employment and career development in the field.

• High school education: Science/technology program, 3 years
• Vocational higher education: Laboratory technician, 2 years
• University degree: Bachelor’s in chemistry or biochemistry, 3 years
• Certifications: Courses in laboratory techniques and safety
• Internship: Recommended as part of the education
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility in science subjects

Common benefits and compensations

Laboratory technicians in chemistry often have access to benefits such as wellness allowances, extra vacation days, professional development through courses and training, and flexible working hours. Pension schemes and comprehensive insurance solutions are also common, especially for private sector employees. Some employers also offer allowances for unsocial hours and work clothing.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a laboratory technician in chemistry varies depending on region and industry. In metropolitan areas and around universities, there is a higher concentration of employers and thus more opportunities, but also more applicants. Challenges in the profession include keeping up to date with new analysis methods, technological developments, and safety requirements. Increased automation and digitalization mean technicians must be prepared to adapt quickly and pursue continuous education. Additionally, workload can be high during project deliveries or when working with sensitive samples where precision is critical.

Tips for aspiring laboratory technicians in chemistry

To succeed as a laboratory technician in chemistry, it is important to have a strong sense of accuracy, as work requires precise measurements and documentation. It is also vital to be analytical and able to interpret results systematically, which facilitates troubleshooting of abnormal sample results. Good teamwork skills are valuable, as many projects are carried out in teams with other specialists. Flexibility and adaptability are needed to handle changes in routines and new technology. Finally, a genuine interest in science and technology enhances daily motivation and understanding of work tasks.

Key facts about laboratory technicians in chemistry

• Education level: High school or university education in science/chemistry
• Work environment: Laboratory-based, often in research or industrial settings
• Work arrangement: Full-time, sometimes shift work
• Demand: 564 job openings in the field (May 2024)
• Special skills: Instrumentation and laboratory methodology

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a laboratory technician in chemistry can advance to roles such as laboratory manager, specialist in specific analysis methods, or further education to become a laboratory engineer. Opportunities also exist in quality control, product development, or research and development, where experience and additional training enable access to more qualified positions. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, no specific outlook assessment is made for laboratory technicians in chemistry, but the number of available positions indicates stable demand. Specialization and technical skills are expected to continue to be important competitive advantages in the job market.

Frequently asked questions about laboratory technicians in chemistry

• What does a laboratory technician in chemistry earn?
  - The average salary is 41 700 SEK/month, with variations between 31,800 and 52,000 SEK depending on education, experience, and employer.
• What education is required to become a laboratory technician in chemistry?
  - Usually, a high school education in science/technology and post-secondary training or university degree in chemistry are required.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 96% of men's salaries in the profession.
• What is the job market like for laboratory technicians in chemistry?
  - There are 564 job openings in the field, and demand is assessed as stable.
• What tasks are included in the profession?
  - Tasks include sampling, analysis, documentation, and maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• What career opportunities are available?
  - After a few years, opportunities include roles as laboratory manager, specialist, or further education to become a laboratory engineer.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Attention to detail, analytical skills, teamwork ability, and an interest in science are important qualities.