Orthopedic technician

What does an orthopedic technician do? – Tasks and work environment

An orthopedic technician is responsible for manufacturing, customizing, and repairing orthopedic aids such as prosthetics, orthoses, and custom-made shoes. The tasks often involve technical and craftsmanship work in close collaboration with patients and healthcare personnel to improve patients' mobility and quality of life. The work environment is usually clinic-based or in specialized workshops, where precision and accuracy are crucial.

Orthopedic technician salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 39 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 35,500 SEK (female with post-secondary education shorter than 3 years)
• Highest salary: 50,200 SEK (male, privately employed with a doctoral degree)
• Hourly wage: 236 SEK (based on 166 working hours/month)
• Gender differences: Women earn on average 37 200 SEK, men 40 900 SEK, which means women earn 91% of men's salary.
• Regional differences: Available data shows no clear regional differences for the profession, but salaries may vary depending on the employer and geographical location.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the average salary of orthopedic technicians has increased from 36,800 SEK in 2022 to 39 200 SEK in 2024, representing a total increase of about 6.5%. In 2023, the average salary was 38 000 SEK, indicating a steady and stable rise. This salary development can be explained by an increased demand for specialized technical professions within healthcare, where education level and professional skills play an important role. At the same time, the shortage of qualified orthopedic technicians has contributed to pushing up salaries to attract and retain competent staff.

Education and qualifications

The educational path to becoming an orthopedic technician usually involves a vocational college education in orthopedic technology or a similar technical healthcare education. The qualifications include both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in the manufacturing and customization of orthopedic aids.

• Formal education: Vocational college education in orthopedic technology, typically 2–3 years
• Internship: Mandatory internship period as part of the education to acquire practical skills
• Prerequisites: High school diploma, often with a focus on natural sciences or technology
• Certifications: Some employers may require certification or further training in specialized areas
• Tips for selection: Choose an education with a strong connection to both technology and healthcare to meet the profession's demands

Common benefits and compensation

Orthopedic technicians are often offered benefits such as wellness grants, occupational pensions, and opportunities for professional development. In some positions, flexible working hours and benefits related to the workplace's collective agreements are also available. Compensation may vary depending on the sector and employment type.

Competition and challenges

The profession of orthopedic technician is characterized by relatively stable demand, but competition for certain positions can be tough in larger cities. One challenge is keeping up to date with the rapid technological developments in the field, which requires continuous further education. At the same time, the work can involve physical strain and requires good ergonomics to avoid injuries. The profession also demands great accuracy and patience in the manufacturing process.

Tips for those who want to become orthopedic technicians

To succeed as an orthopedic technician, it is beneficial to have strong technical abilities and an interest in medical technology. Accuracy is crucial to ensure that the aids function optimally for patients, making it important to have an eye for detail. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with both patients and colleagues, helping to understand and meet individual needs. Being flexible and open to new technology helps adapt to the profession's development. Finally, patience and problem-solving skills are required to handle the challenges that may arise in the manufacturing and customization processes.

Key facts about orthopedic technicians

• Education level: Vocational college education 2–3 years
• Salary range: 35,500–50,200 SEK/month
• Work environment: Clinic and workshop with patient contact
• Hourly wage: Approximately 236 SEK
• Gender difference in salary: Women earn on average 91% of men's salary

Career paths and future prospects

Orthopedic technicians can advance to specialist roles or supervisory positions within technical healthcare units after a few years of experience. Some choose to further their education to become orthopedic engineers or other specialized technicians. The employment agency's forecasts for the professions of dental technicians and orthopedic engineers indicate that there are around 564 job openings in the field, but due to limited data, no exact assessment of the recruitment situation or future prospects is made. The profession is part of a technically oriented occupational group where competence in medical technology is expected to become increasingly important in the future.

Frequently asked questions about orthopedic technicians

• What does an orthopedic technician earn?
  - The average salary is approximately 39 200 SEK/month, with variation between 35,500 SEK and 50,200 SEK depending on experience and employment type.
• What education is required to become an orthopedic technician?
  - A vocational college education in orthopedic technology lasting 2–3 years is the most common requirement to work in the profession.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn on average 91% of men's salary in the profession.
• What is the work environment like for orthopedic technicians?
  - The work often takes place in clinical or workshop environments with patient contact and requires precision and technical skill.
• What are the future prospects for orthopedic technicians?
  - There is a stable number of job openings, but due to limited data, there is no exact forecast for the profession.