Autopsy assistant

What does an Obduktionsassistent do? – Tasks and Work Environment

An Obduktionsassistent primarily works alongside doctors and forensic pathologists during autopsies, assisting in examinations of the deceased to determine cause of death or gather medical facts. The work also includes practical tasks such as handling instruments, preparing bodies for autopsy, and cleaning and disinfecting work surfaces and equipment afterward. The environment is often technically advanced with high hygiene standards and precision requirements, performed in specialized autopsy rooms within hospitals or forensic institutions. The profession demands both physical and mental resilience, as tasks can be emotionally challenging and sometimes involve contact with relatives.

Salary development over time

The salary for Obduktionsassistenter has shown a steady increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 27,100 SEK per month, rising to 29 400 SEK in 2023 – an increase of approximately 8.5%. In 2024, the average salary has increased further to 30 200 SEK, which is about a 2.7% rise from the previous year. This positive salary trend can partly be explained by increased focus on work environment and competence in the healthcare sector, as well as a growing demand for specialized personnel in the field. The trend indicates that the profession is gradually gaining higher valuation, although regional and educational differences still exist.

Obduktionsassistent salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 30 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (female): 26,500 SEK
• Lowest salary (male): 26,800 SEK
• Highest salary (female): 41,700 SEK
• Highest salary (male): 35,600 SEK
• Average hourly wage: 181 SEK
• Women earn: 30 400 SEK (102% of men’s salary)
• Men earn: 29 800 SEK
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and employer, but detailed statistics are lacking.

Education and qualifications

To work as an Obduktionsassistent, a high school diploma with a healthcare focus is usually required, though some employers may also require specific courses or work experience within a hospital environment. Practical experience and the ability to handle technical equipment and sensitive situations are important qualifications. Internal training programs and onboarding are also common for new assistants.

• Education: High school diploma with a healthcare specialization (3 years)
• Certifications: Opportunities for advanced courses in anatomy, microbiology, or forensic medicine
• Internship: Practical component during education, sometimes including trainee positions at hospitals
• Prerequisites: Good knowledge of Swedish and medical terminology
• Tips for choosing: Interest in medicine and ability to handle difficult emotional situations are recommended

Common benefits and compensations

Obduktionsassistenter are often offered generous benefits such as extra vacation, wellness contributions, and opportunities for skill development. Other common compensations include overtime pay for evening, night, and weekend work, as well as occupational pensions and insurance through the employer.

Competition and challenges

The job market for Obduktionsassistenter is characterized by relatively low competition but also limited opportunities for job switching within the profession, as the number of positions is small compared to other healthcare roles. Challenges often involve the work environment, where emotional and physical stressors are common, especially when handling difficult cases or interacting with relatives. Additionally, the work requires great accuracy and patience, as mistakes can have serious consequences. However, there is a stable demand for the profession, especially in larger cities and university hospitals, though regional variations can be significant.

Tips for those wanting to become an Obduktionsassistent

To succeed as an Obduktionsassistent, it’s important to have a high level of accuracy and stress tolerance, as tasks demand precision even under pressure. Empathy facilitates contact with relatives or during difficult autopsies, while discretion and respect for privacy are essential qualities. An interest in anatomy and medicine provides a valuable foundation, and actively seeking internships or part-time jobs in healthcare can provide important experience. Flexibility is also key, as workdays can vary in pace and content. Staying updated on routines and new techniques in the field is advantageous, as is building a strong network within the healthcare sector to find suitable positions.

Key facts about Obduktionsassistent

• Educational level: High school diploma with healthcare focus recommended
• Work environment: Hospitals, autopsy rooms, forensic institutions
• Work form: Usually full-time, sometimes shift work
• Demand: 375 available jobs in spring 2024
• Gender distribution: Women have slightly higher average salaries than men

Career paths and future prospects

After several years of experience, opportunities exist to develop into related roles, such as biomedical analyst or specializing in forensic examinations. Some choose further education to become nurses or other healthcare professionals, while others may take on more administrative responsibilities or mentoring roles for new colleagues. The forecast from the Employment Service shows no specific assessment for the profession, but with 375 available jobs, the job market remains relatively stable. Future development largely depends on healthcare needs and potential changes in forensic procedures.

Common questions about Obduktionsassistent

• What does an Obduktionsassistent earn?
  - The average salary is 30 200 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, education, and region.
• How does one become an Obduktionsassistent?
  - The most common path is a high school education with a healthcare specialization, along with internship or experience within a hospital environment.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 30 400 SEK, which is 102% of men’s salary of 29 800 SEK.
• What are the job responsibilities of an Obduktionsassistent?
  - Assist with autopsies, handle instruments, prepare bodies, and maintain hygiene routines.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Accuracy, stress tolerance, empathy, and the ability to work in a team are central qualities.
• What are the future prospects?
  - There is no exact forecast, but 375 available jobs within the profession suggest stable demand.