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What does a typesetter do? – Tasks and work environment

A typesetter primarily works within graphic production and printing, focusing on preparing and adjusting text and images for printing or digital publishing. The profession often involves working with advanced digital tools and software for layout and typography, as well as handling machines that automatically set and position text on printed materials. The work environment is typically technically advanced and can be both office-based and production-oriented, depending on the workplace’s size and focus. Typesetters are responsible for ensuring the final product meets high quality standards, which requires precision and an eye for detail.

Salary development over time

The salary for typesetters has shown relatively stable development over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,000 SEK per month, increasing to 34 800 SEK in 2023. In 2024, a slight decrease has been noted to 34 700 SEK, which corresponds to a change of about -0.3% compared to the previous year. Despite this minor decline, the salary level remains higher than two years ago, with a total increase of just over 5% from 2022 to 2024. This trend reflects a steady demand for the profession, although the market is competitive and influenced by digitalization. Salary differences may also depend on factors such as experience, education level, and geographic location.

Typesetter salary – a comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 34 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,800 SEK/month (female), 34,900 SEK/month (male)
• Highest salary: 37,300 SEK/month (female), 37,800 SEK/month (male)
• Hourly wage (average): 209 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 85% of what men do (31 900 SEK/month compared to 37 700 SEK/month)
• Regional differences: Specific data is missing, but wages may vary depending on location and job market

Education and qualifications

To work as a typesetter, a high school education in graphic design, media, or printing technology is usually required, along with practical experience with relevant software and machines. Some employers also require post-secondary courses or certifications in specific layout and prepress tools. Internships and trainee programs are common, providing valuable experience and industry insight. Self-study and online courses can also be a way to strengthen skills within the profession.

• High school education: Graphic design, media, or printing technology (3 years)
• Post-secondary courses: Layout, prepress, digital publishing
• Certifications: Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, or equivalent
• Internship/trainee: Common during education or as an introduction at the workplace
• Self-study: Online courses in typography, layout, and graphic tools

Common benefits and compensations

Typesetters are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and opportunities for skill development through courses or internal training. Pension schemes and insurance are generally included, along with collective agreements that specify overtime pay and holiday allowances. Some workplaces also offer subsidized lunches or employee discounts on products and services.

Competition and challenges

The profession of typesetter is competitive, especially due to rapid technological development and digitalization within graphic production. The availability of jobs is affected by economic conditions and the development of the printing industry, where some tasks are partially automated or outsourced abroad. Employers increasingly require specialized skills and experience with new digital tools. To remain competitive, it is important to continually update one's knowledge and be open to changes in workflows and production techniques.

Tips for those aspiring to become a typesetter

To succeed as a typesetter, it is helpful to have an eye for detail and a strong sense of quality, as the profession demands precision in both layout and handling of technical equipment. Being flexible and curious about new digital tools offers significant advantages, especially as workflows evolve rapidly. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with both creative and technical colleagues, contributing to a smooth workflow. Initiative and independence are important traits, as many tasks are performed under time pressure with a high level of responsibility for the final result. A structured work approach helps manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines. Actively seeking internships or trainee positions provides valuable experience and insight into industry requirements. Continuing education in software and prepress technology increases employment prospects.

Key facts about typesetters

• Education level: High school education, often with a focus on graphic production
• Work environment: Office and production-based, technically advanced environment
• Number of available jobs: 1,437 within the profession of prepress technicians and printers
• Gender differences: Women earn 85% of what men do
• Occupational group: Prepress technician

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years of experience, typesetters can advance to roles such as production manager, graphic designer, or specialist in prepress and digital publishing. Some choose to further their education in project management or digital media to broaden their professional profile. Forecasts from the Employment Service show that there are 1,437 available jobs within the profession of prepress technicians and printers, but no specific outlook for typesetters due to limited data. The industry is strongly influenced by technological development and digitalization, which means demand for the role may vary depending on region and the development of the graphic industry.

Frequently asked questions about typesetters

• What does a typesetter earn?
  - The average salary for a typesetter is 34 700 SEK per month.
• Are there significant salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 85% of what men do within the profession.
• What education is required to become a typesetter?
  - High school education in graphic production or media is most common, sometimes combined with post-secondary courses and certifications.
• What is the job market like for typesetters?
  - There are 1,437 available jobs within the profession of prepress technicians and printers, but no specific forecast for typesetters.
• What tasks does a typesetter perform?
  - Tasks include layout work, digital production, and handling prepress machines for printing and publishing.
• Are there opportunities for career development?
  - Yes, experienced typesetters can advance to roles such as production manager or graphic designer.
• What is the hourly wage for typesetters?
  - The average hourly wage is 209 SEK.