What does a neurosurgeon do? – tasks and work environment
A neurosurgeon is responsible for diagnosing and treating diseases, injuries, and deformities of the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. The work involves advanced surgical procedures, often using microscopes and modern imaging technology. Neurosurgeons typically work at larger hospitals, in teams with other specialists, nurses, and assistant nurses. The work environment is characterized by a fast pace, complex cases, and a high level of responsibility for patients' lives and health.
Salary development over time
The salary for neurosurgeons has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 86,400 SEK per month. In 2023, it rose to 92 200 SEK, corresponding to an increase of about 6.7%. In 2024, the average salary was 93 600 SEK, a further increase of 1.5% compared to the previous year. This development is driven by increased demand for specialist skills, long training pathways, and complex work content. The trend also shows a growing need for neurosurgeons, which positively influences salaries due to high competition for qualified personnel.
Neurosurgeon salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 93 600 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 84,600 SEK/month (men), 91,200 SEK/month (women)
- Highest salary: 110,600 SEK/month (men), 101,500 SEK/month (women)
- Hourly wage: 563 SEK/hour
- Gender differences: Women earn on average 98% of men's salaries
- Regional differences: Data on regional variation is lacking, but salaries are generally highest at university hospitals in large cities.
Education and qualifications
To work as a neurosurgeon, a long and demanding education is required, with several formal steps from undergraduate studies to specialist competence. The path begins with medical training, followed by general service and specialist training in neurosurgery. Practical experience and continuous further education are crucial to stay updated in the field.
- Medical education: 6 years at university (medical program)
- General service (AT): Approximately 18–24 months
- Specialist training (ST) in neurosurgery: 5 years
- Licensing: Required after completing AT
- Research/further education: Common for career advancement and specialization
- Prerequisites: Science-oriented upper secondary school program recommended
Neurosurgeons often work with cutting-edge technology, such as robotic surgery and intraoperative imaging diagnostics. The technological development in the field means that the profession is constantly evolving, requiring a willingness to learn new skills and adapt to new equipment and working methods.
Common benefits and compensations
Neurosurgeons are often offered comprehensive benefits beyond their base salary. This commonly includes generous pension contributions, extra vacation, professional development, occupational pension, and insurance. On-call and standby duties often include additional night shift allowances and overtime compensation. Opportunities for research funding and participation in international conferences are also available.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as a neurosurgeon is relatively low, but recruitment difficulties occur due to the high skill requirements and lengthy training pathway. Challenges in the profession include long working hours, mental stress, and significant responsibility for patients' lives. Neurosurgeons often need to make quick decisions under stress, while technological advances require continuous further training. The shortage of specialists means workload can be high at some workplaces, especially at larger university hospitals.
Tips for those aspiring to become a neurosurgeon
To succeed as a neurosurgeon, it is beneficial to have strong analytical skills and a desire to constantly learn new things. Precision is crucial, as the work demands accuracy in every step, both in diagnostics and surgery. Being stress-resistant and decisive helps when unexpected situations arise during operations. Good teamwork skills are important, as the work is done in multidisciplinary teams. Additionally, resilience and commitment are required, as the educational path is long and extensive, and the work involves a great responsibility for patients' lives and futures.
Key facts about the neurosurgeon
- Education level: Medical license + 5 years of specialist training
- Work environment: Hospitals, often university hospitals with advanced surgical facilities
- Typical employment: Permanent position, often in teams
- Demand: Great employment opportunities, increasing need according to forecasts
- Special skills: Microsurgery, advanced imaging diagnostics, technical competence
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a neurosurgeon, opportunities open for specialization in areas such as tumor surgery, vascular surgery, or pediatric neurosurgery. Many choose to combine clinical work with research or teaching at universities. According to the Employment Service's forecast, job prospects remain strong, with increasing demand for neurosurgeons. The recruitment situation is paradoxical: it is difficult to recruit, yet some turnover and part-time work occur. The forecast indicates that the need for neurosurgeons will increase over the next five years, providing good future prospects for the profession. In total, 375 job openings were reported in the latest statistics within the specialist doctor group.
Common questions about the neurosurgeon
- What does a neurosurgeon earn?
- A neurosurgeon has an average salary of 93 600 SEK per month. The highest reported salary is 110,600 SEK and the lowest 84,600 SEK.
- How does one become a neurosurgeon?
- Medical education, licensing, and five years of specialist training in neurosurgery are required.
- What is the job market like for neurosurgeons?
- Opportunities for employment are abundant, and demand is expected to increase in the coming years according to the Employment Service.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn on average 98% of what men do in the profession.
- What are the duties of a neurosurgeon?
- Tasks include surgery of the brain and nervous system, patient examinations, and working in multidisciplinary teams.
- What personal qualities are needed?
- Precision, stress resilience, analytical skills, and teamwork ability are key qualities for a neurosurgeon.
- Where do neurosurgeons work?
- Most work at larger hospitals, especially university hospitals with advanced surgical environments.
