Capture techniques

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

An overspill technician primarily works with managing, digitizing, and quality-checking audio and video material, often for archives, media houses, or production companies. The profession involves technically transferring content from older analog formats to digital media, requiring precision and a good understanding of various recording and storage systems. The work environment includes both independent tasks and collaboration with colleagues in production, archives, or technical departments. Work is often performed in specialized technical environments where high concentration and technical interest are essential.

Salary development over time

The salary for overspill technicians has shown a clear upward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,400 SEK per month, which increased to 39 700 during 2023 – a rise of approximately 6.2%. In 2024, the average salary has continued to rise and is now at 41 700, reflecting an additional increase of about 5% compared to the previous year. This salary growth indicates an increased demand for technical expertise in digitization and archiving, as well as general salary trends within technology and media professions. Slight variations are seen depending on employer and experience, with private sector employees often earning higher salaries.

Overspill technician salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 41 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 35,200 SEK/month (female, private employee, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Highest salary: 47,200 SEK/month (male, private employee, education level not specified)
• Hourly wage: 251 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 44 700 SEK, women 37 800 SEK (women earn 85% of what men do)
• Regional differences: Specific data is lacking, but larger cities tend to have higher salaries compared to smaller towns

Education and qualifications

To work as an overspill technician, a post-secondary education in media, audio-visual technology, or similar technical fields is usually required. Many employers prefer candidates with experience in both analog and digital formats and an understanding of archive management. Practical experience in media production or broadcasting technology is often advantageous, and additional courses in digitization and audio technology can be beneficial.

• Post-secondary education: 2–3 years in media, audio-visual technology, or equivalent
• Specialized courses/certifications: Digitization methods, audio technology, archive management
• Internship/Trainee: Internships in media production or technical departments are often advantageous
• Prerequisites: Good technical understanding, interest in older and new formats
• Tips for choosing: Combine theoretical education with practical experience and stay updated on new technology

Common benefits and compensations

Typical benefits for an overspill technician include wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and sometimes opportunities for skills development through internal or external training. Additional compensation for unsociable hours and access to technical equipment may also be available, especially with larger employers in media and the public sector.

Competition and challenges

The profession of overspill technician is niche, and competition can vary depending on developments within the media and archive sectors. Since digitization of older material is an ongoing and sometimes time-limited project, the availability of permanent positions can fluctuate. Challenges include keeping up with constantly evolving technology and handling delicate or hard-to-access materials. The role often requires a combination of technical skills and an understanding of cultural heritage values. The lack of specific training programs can make it difficult for employers to find the right expertise, which may lead to higher wages for experienced technicians.

Tips for aspiring overspill technicians

To succeed as an overspill technician, attention to detail and a genuine technical interest are important. Constant curiosity about new technology and formats makes it easier to solve unexpected problems during digitization. Patience and perseverance are key, especially when working with repetitive tasks or delicate older materials. Good communication skills are also beneficial, as collaboration with colleagues in production, archives, and technical departments is common. Actively seeking internships or projects in media can provide valuable experience, and participating in relevant courses or certifications can increase employability. Finally, a sense of quality and meticulousness is crucial, as the final results often have long-term value for organizations and society.

Key facts about overspill technicians

• Salary range: 35,200–47,200 SEK/month
• Average salary: 41 700 SEK/month
• Education level: Post-secondary, 2–3 years
• Work environment: Technical studio, archive, or media production
• Demand: 620 job openings within the image and broadcasting technician profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, an overspill technician can advance to more specialized roles within digital archiving, technical coordination, or leadership positions in media production. There are also opportunities to develop into consulting or become a technical project manager for larger digitization projects. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate a stable number of job openings within the image and broadcasting technician sector, although specific data for overspill technicians is limited. The ongoing technological development and increased need to preserve and make accessible older materials suggest continued demand for expertise in overspill and digitization.

Frequently asked questions about overspill technicians

• What is the average salary of an overspill technician?
  - The average salary is 41 700 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become an overspill technician?
  - Post-secondary education in media, audio-visual technology, or similar fields is recommended.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn on average 44 700 SEK, and women 37 800 SEK, meaning women earn 85% of what men do.
• What is the job market like for overspill technicians?
  - Currently, there are 620 job openings in the image and broadcasting technician sector.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for an overspill technician?
  - The highest salary is 47,200 SEK and the lowest is 35,200 SEK.
• What work environments are common in this profession?
  - Technical studios, archives, and media production companies are the most common workplaces.
• Are certifications or specialized courses needed?
  - Courses in digitization, archive management, and audio technology are advantageous.