Museum technician

What does a Museum Technician do? – Tasks and Work Environment

Museum technicians are responsible for installation, operation, and maintenance of technical equipment in museum settings. Their tasks often include preparing and mounting lighting, sound systems, and digital solutions during exhibitions and events. The role also involves troubleshooting and repairing technical systems, as well as collaborating with exhibition producers and other technicians to ensure that the presentation of objects and information meets high standards. The work environment is varied and can range from workshops and exhibition halls to working at heights or in confined spaces, where safety and precision are central.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salaries for museum technicians have shown clear positive growth. In 2022, the average salary was 35,100 SEK per month, with a slight increase to 35 500 SEK in 2023. The largest increase occurred between 2023 and 2024, when the average salary rose to 38 600 SEK, an increase of approximately 8.7% in one year. This salary increase is linked to rising demand for technical skills within the museum sector and an increasing need for digital solutions in exhibitions. At the same time, education requirements and technical specialization have contributed to a stronger salary position for the profession. Salary levels also reflect the industry's efforts to attract and retain qualified technical staff in an increasingly digital work environment.

Museum Technician Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 38 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 33,600 SEK/month (female), 36,100 SEK/month (male)
• Highest salary: 40,300 SEK/month (female), 43,700 SEK/month (male)
• Hourly wage: 232 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 96% of what men do (37 300 SEK/month vs 38 800 SEK/month)
• Regional differences: Data not available, but variation may occur depending on employer and region

Education and Qualifications

To work as a museum technician, a technical education focused on lighting, sound, stage, or exhibition technology is usually required. Many employers prefer experience from similar roles, while some museums may offer internal training or internships. Basic knowledge of electricity, IT, and mechanics is often advantageous, as well as experience with project work and teamwork in creative environments.

• Post-secondary education: YH-education or university education in lighting, sound, or stage technology (1–3 years)
• Courses and certifications: Specialized courses in AV technology, electrical systems, or digital systems
• Internships: Internships or trainee programs at museums or performing arts institutions
• Prerequisites: Interest in technology, problem-solving skills, and experience with technical work
• Tips for choosing: Combine technical education with cultural interests and project experience

Common Benefits and Compensation

Typical benefits for museum technicians include wellness allowances, generous vacation, professional development, and sometimes flexible working hours. Pension schemes and insurance coverage are often included, along with opportunities for further training in technology and safety. Some employers also offer staff discounts or special cultural benefits.

Competition and Challenges

Competition for positions as a museum technician can vary depending on location and the size of the museum. Smaller museums often have fewer technical services, while larger institutions can offer more career opportunities and specialization. A challenge in the profession is staying updated on new technology and digital solutions, while also working with older systems. Temporary projects and short-term exhibitions can lead to periods of high workload. Technical faults and rapid changes in exhibition environments require problem-solving skills and flexibility.

Tips for aspiring Museum Technicians

To succeed as a museum technician, it is beneficial to combine technical interest with curiosity about culture and history. Good teamwork skills facilitate collaboration with exhibition producers and other specialists. Practical skills and precision are crucial for handling sensitive objects and advanced technology. It is also important to be solution-oriented and able to adapt quickly to technical challenges or changing conditions. Gaining experience through internships or volunteering at museums provides valuable contacts and experience. Engagement in technical networks and further education in digital technology also enhances future prospects. Finally, initiative and a structured work approach are key qualities for managing both independent and complex projects.

Key Facts about Museum Technicians

• Occupational group: Lighting, sound, and stage technicians
• Average salary: 38 600 SEK/month
• Typical education level: Post-secondary education, 1–3 years
• Work environment: Museums, exhibition halls, and cultural institutions
• Job openings in the field: 620

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years as a museum technician, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as technical coordinator, exhibition technician, or project manager within museum and exhibition activities. Specialization in digital media, lighting, or AV technology can open doors to more qualified positions. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts for lighting, sound, and stage technicians, no specific assessment is made for museum technicians due to limited data, but demand for technical skills within the cultural sector is expected to remain stable. The profession had 620 job openings during the latest survey, indicating some mobility and market demand. However, future prospects are influenced by the economic conditions of the museum sector and digital development.

Frequently Asked Questions about Museum Technicians

• What is the average salary of a Museum Technician?
  - The average salary is 38 600 SEK per month.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a Museum Technician?
  - The highest salary is 43,700 SEK (male), 40,300 SEK (female). The lowest salary is 33,600 SEK (female), 36,100 SEK (male).
• Are there gender differences in Museum Technician salaries?
  - Yes, women earn 96% of what men do.
• What education is required to become a Museum Technician?
  - Post-secondary education in technical fields, often 1–3 years.
• What is the job market like for Museum Technicians?
  - There are 620 job openings in the lighting, sound, and stage technology fields.
• What are the duties of a Museum Technician?
  - Installation, operation, and maintenance of technical equipment at exhibitions and museums.
• What is the hourly wage of a Museum Technician?
  - The hourly wage is 232 SEK.