Hospital physicist

What does a hospital physicist do? – Tasks and work environment

Hospital physicists work to ensure that medical technology is used safely and effectively within healthcare. Their tasks include quality control of medical equipment, radiation protection during diagnostics and treatments, and dose optimization in procedures such as cancer therapy. They collaborate closely with doctors, nurses, and engineers and are often involved in research and development projects. The work environment varies, including laboratory settings and patient-related work, and the role requires high precision and a deep understanding of physics and medical technology.

Salary development over time

The salary development for hospital physicists has been steadily positive in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 48,500 SEK per month, increasing to 49700 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the salary has risen further to 51 500, representing a total increase of approximately 6.2% over three years. This increase can partly be attributed to increased demand for qualified hospital physicists in healthcare, where technological development and access to advanced medical equipment require specialist skills. Salary levels are also influenced by regional and employer budgets, as well as competition for experienced candidates. The trend indicates that expertise in medical physics continues to be highly valued in the job market.

Hospital physicist salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 51 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 41,600 SEK/month (female, private sector, vocational training shorter than 3 years)
• Highest salary: 58,500 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, research degree)
• Hourly wage: 310 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 50 500 SEK/month, men 51 800 SEK/month (women 97% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data varies, but generally slightly higher salaries in metropolitan regions

Education and qualifications

To work as a hospital physicist, a long and specialized education in medical physics is required. The pathway involves a civil engineering or master's degree in physics, followed by supplementary hospital physics training and licensure from the National Board of Health and Welfare. Practical experience in healthcare and the ability to apply theoretical physics in clinical environments are essential for success.

• Degree: Master's degree in physics (5 years) plus one-year hospital physics training
• Licensure: Required from the National Board of Health and Welfare
• Internship: Clinical internship included in the education
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility and special eligibility in mathematics, physics, and chemistry
• Tip: Early focus on medical physics during studies is recommended

Common benefits and compensations

Typical benefits for hospital physicists include occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexitime, and opportunities for professional development. In some cases, extra vacation days, subsidized lunches, and compensation for unsociable hours are offered. Employment in the public sector often provides stable conditions and good insurance solutions.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a hospital physicist is moderate but can vary depending on region and specialization. Challenges in the profession mainly stem from rapid technological development, requiring continuous training and flexibility. Since the tasks are often complex and responsible, high demands are placed on accuracy and problem-solving skills. The shortage of licensed hospital physicists in some parts of the country can lead to increased workload, while competition for attractive positions in cities can be higher. The role also requires good teamwork skills in multidisciplinary teams and the ability to communicate complex technical solutions pedagogically.

Tips for those wishing to become a hospital physicist

To succeed as a hospital physicist, it is beneficial to have an analytical mind, as problem-solving is a central part of the role. Being precise and structured facilitates handling safety-critical tasks and quality controls. An interest in technology and medicine is important, as work takes place at the intersection of physics and healthcare. Developing good teamwork skills is essential, since the hospital physicist often participates in multidisciplinary teams. Flexibility and a willingness to lifelong learning are necessary to keep up with rapid technological developments in healthcare. Practicing communicating complex technical issues pedagogically is also valuable, especially when interacting with colleagues from other professions. Engagement and perseverance help drive projects and improvements forward.

Key facts about Hospital Physicists

• Average salary: 51 500 SEK/month
• Salary range: 41,600–58,500 SEK/month
• Education level: Master's degree in physics + licensure
• Work environment: Hospitals, laboratories, and patient-related environments
• Demand: 143 job openings in the profession in spring 2024

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a hospital physicist can specialize in areas such as radiation therapy, radiology, or nuclear medicine. Opportunities also exist to take on roles as training managers, development leaders, or researchers in medical physics. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that it is difficult to make precise predictions about future prospects due to limited data. However, in the profession of physicists and astronomers, 143 job openings were noted in spring 2024, indicating some demand. Continued technological development and increased use of advanced medical equipment are expected to drive the need for licensed hospital physicists in the future.

Frequently asked questions about Hospital Physicists

• What does a hospital physicist earn?
  - The average salary is 51 500 SEK per month, with a range from 41,600 to 58,500 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
• How does one become a hospital physicist?
  - A master's or civil engineering degree in physics plus one year of supplementary training and licensure from the National Board of Health and Welfare are required.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 97% of what men do in the profession.
• What is the work environment like for a hospital physicist?
  - The work mainly occurs in hospitals, laboratories, and patient-related environments.
• What are the future prospects?
  - Demand is considered moderate, with 143 job openings in spring 2024, but precise forecasts are unavailable due to limited data.
• What benefits are usually offered?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexitime, and professional development.
• What is required to obtain licensure as a hospital physicist?
  - In addition to the degree, practical experience and approved supplementary training are required, followed by an application for licensure from the National Board of Health and Welfare.