Lithographer

What does a lithographer do? – Tasks and work environment

A lithographer works with producing printing plates and originals for various forms of print production. The work includes both traditional lithographic techniques and digital prepress, where image and text originals are processed before printing. The role often involves adjusting color, format, and layout, as well as controlling print quality. The work environment is usually technically advanced and can take place in smaller print shops or larger graphic production facilities. Precision, patience, and an eye for detail are central qualities in the profession.

Salary development over time

The salary for lithographers has shown a relatively stable development in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,000 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased slightly to 34 800 SEK, corresponding to a growth of about 5.5%. In 2024, the average salary has decreased slightly to 34 700 SEK, indicating a minor decline of just under 0.3% compared to the previous year. This trend reflects a market where demand remains relatively stable but technological changes and increased automation may impact the need for traditional lithographers. Gender differences have also been notable, with women earning an average of 85% of men's salaries, a pattern that persists over time. Regional variations occur, but generally salaries are consistent across the country.

Lithographer salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 34 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,800 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 37,800 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 209 SEK
• Women: 31 900 SEK/month
• Men: 37 700 SEK/month
• Women’s salary as a percentage of men’s: 85%
• Regional differences: Salaries vary slightly depending on region, but differences are generally small within the profession.

Education and qualifications

To work as a lithographer, a high school education in graphic technology or equivalent is usually required, often supplemented with further vocational training. Practical experience and technical understanding of printing processes are important factors for success in the profession. There are also opportunities for further training in digital prepress and image processing, which increase employability and the potential for specialization.

• High school education: Graphic technology or equivalent (3 years)
• Vocational training: Post-secondary education in prepress or printing technology (1–2 years)
• Certifications: Courses in digital prepress, color management, and image processing
• Internship: Industry-oriented internships during education are recommended
• Prerequisites: Technical interest and good color perception are advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Lithographers often receive benefits such as wellness allowances, reduced working hours, and opportunities for training in new technologies. Other common compensations include shift bonuses, extra vacation days, and pension contributions according to collective agreements. In some cases, insurance and subsidized meals are also offered at the workplace.

Competition and challenges

Competition within the lithography profession is strongly influenced by technological development, where digitalization and automation reduce the need for traditional lithographic skills. The job market is relatively limited, and it often requires continuous updating of skills to remain competitive. The shift to digital prepress has decreased demand for classical lithographers, while expertise in color management and image processing is more attractive. The profession is part of a larger occupational group, which means competition may also come from related roles such as prepress technicians and printers.

Tips for aspiring lithographers

To succeed as a lithographer, it’s good to be meticulous and detail-oriented, as small mistakes can have significant consequences in the printing process. A strong technical interest facilitates learning both traditional and digital methods. Being flexible and curious is valuable since development is rapid, and new technologies are constantly introduced in graphic production. Collaboration skills are also important, as many projects are team-based where communication with other professions is crucial. Initiative and willingness to further educate oneself increase chances for growth within the profession. Creative problem-solving is needed when unexpected challenges arise in production. Finally, patience and stress tolerance are appreciated, especially when working under tight deadlines and high quality standards.

Key facts about the lithographer

• Educational level: High school or vocational education in graphic technology
• Work environment: Technically intensive, often in print shops or graphic production
• Occupational group: Prepress technician
• Demand: 1,437 available jobs in the occupational group
• Gender salary difference: Women earn 85% of men's salaries

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a lithographer, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as prepress specialist, printing manager, or production technician within the graphic industry. Some choose further education in digital image management or project management to broaden their career options. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, no specific assessment is made for lithographers, but within the occupational group of prepress technicians and printers, there are currently 1,437 available jobs, indicating some demand. As the lithographer’s role evolves with developments in graphic technology, future prospects may vary depending on specialization and adaptability. Digital skills and experience with new printing techniques increase chances of continued employment and career development.

Frequently asked questions about lithographers

• What is the average salary of a lithographer?
  - The average salary is 34 700 SEK per month.
• What are the gender differences in salary for lithographers?
  - Men earn an average of 37 700 SEK and women 31 900 SEK, meaning women earn 85% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a lithographer?
  - High school education in graphic technology or equivalent, preferably supplemented with further training in prepress or digital printing technology.
• What is the job market like for lithographers?
  - There are 1,437 available jobs within the profession, but no specific forecast is made for lithographers.
• What are the tasks of a lithographer?
  - The lithographer works with producing printing plates, originals, and digital prepress for printing.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Regional differences exist but are generally small within the profession.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a lithographer?
  - The highest salary is 37,800 SEK and the lowest 31,800 SEK per month.