Orthopedic mechanic salary

What does it mean to work as an Orthopedic Mechanic?

As an orthopedic mechanic, you work on designing, manufacturing, and adapting prostheses, orthoses, and other orthopedic aids. The profession requires both technical and medical expertise as you need to understand the biomechanical principles and have skills in working with various materials and techniques. Orthopedic mechanics often work closely with orthopedic engineers, physiotherapists, and doctors to ensure that patients receive the best solutions for their needs.

Salary for Orthopedic Mechanics

Orthopedic mechanics have an average monthly salary of 38 000 SEK. However, there is a certain wage gap between genders, where men earn an average of 40 000 SEK while women earn 35 700 SEK, meaning that women earn 89% of what men do in the same profession. Hourly orthopedic mechanics have an average hourly wage of 228 SEK based on a working month of 166 hours. Interestingly, the average salary has seen an increase from 36 800 SEK to 38 000 SEK compared to the previous measurement.

Salary Range and Highest vs. Lowest Salaries

The highest salary for an orthopedic mechanic is 48800 SEK and belongs to a man working in the municipal sector with a research education. For women in the same profession, the highest salary is 42900 SEK. On the other end of the spectrum, the lowest salary for an orthopedic mechanic is 33900 SEK, belonging to a woman with a post-secondary education shorter than 3 years. The lowest salary for men is 38600 SEK.

Education and Requirements

To become an orthopedic mechanic, a high school education with a technical focus is usually required, followed by further education in orthopedic technology. Many orthopedic mechanics have also supplemented their education with courses and certifications in specific areas such as material science and biomechanics. For those wishing to gain a deeper understanding and specialization, a higher education such as a bachelor's degree in a related field may be advantageous.

Working Conditions

The working environment for an orthopedic mechanic can vary depending on the workplace. They can work in hospitals, clinics, or private companies. The work may involve both office work and practical work in workshops where orthopedic aids are manufactured and adapted. It may also involve direct patient contact to ensure that the aids fit and function properly.

Future Outlook and Challenges

Forecasts for the labor market for orthopedic mechanics show no specific assessment due to limited data. The profession is part of the broader occupational group of dental technicians and orthopedic engineers, where there may be different opportunities depending on technical focus and expertise. A challenge in the profession may be to stay updated with the latest technologies and materials, which requires continuous training.

Benefits and Working Conditions

Within the profession, there may be benefits such as paid training to further develop skills, which is particularly valuable in an industry where technology advances rapidly. Other benefits such as the opportunity to work from home are usually not relevant for orthopedic mechanics due to the practical and physical work involved.

Summary

Working as an orthopedic mechanic is a technically demanding profession that combines medical knowledge with craftsmanship skills. The salary is at a stable level with some gender disparities, and the profession offers potential for development and specialization. For those interested in technology and medicine, and who want to work to improve the quality of life for people with orthopedic needs, this can be a very rewarding career choice.