Linguists

What does a linguist do? – Tasks and work environment

A linguist, also called a language scientist, works with investigating and analyzing the structure, development, and use of language. Tasks include everything from studying grammar and phonetics to exploring language history and language changes over time. Many linguists work at universities or research institutes, conducting both basic and applied research on topics such as language learning or multilingualism. The work environment is often academic and characterized by independent work, but collaboration within research groups and international projects also occurs. Sometimes, research is combined with teaching, supervision, and science communication.

Salary development over time

The salary for linguists has increased noticeably in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 34,700 SEK per month, followed by a slight decline to 33 500 SEK in 2023. Between 2023 and 2024, there was a significant rise, with the average salary increasing to 38 300 SEK, which is an increase of over 14%. This positive trend can partly be explained by increased competition for qualified researchers and a greater need for linguistic expertise in both education and private industry. The salary development also reflects a generally higher demand for linguistic competence amid globalization and digitalization, where language data and communication play an increasingly important role.

Linguist salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 38 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,500 SEK/month (female, public sector, upper secondary education)
• Highest salary: 48,100 SEK/month (male, private sector, doctoral degree)
• Hourly wage (average): 230 SEK
• Women's salary as % of men's: 102%
• Regional differences: Data not published, but variations exist between urban and rural areas

Education and qualifications

To work as a linguist, an academic degree in linguistics, language science, or a related field is generally required. The typical pathway is via a bachelor's and master's degree, and many also hold a doctoral degree (PhD). Practical experience from research projects, publications, and international exchanges is advantageous. Self-study, courses, and conferences help stay updated in the field and develop specialized skills.

• Bachelor's and master's degree in linguistics or language science (3+2 years)
• Doctoral degree (research education, 4 years after master's)
• Experience in scientific publishing and project work
• Engagement in international research collaborations and conferences
• Strong analytical skills and interest in language structure and function

Common benefits and compensations

Linguists often have access to benefits such as occupational pension, flexible working hours, and remote work opportunities. Additional benefits may include professional development, research travel, conference participation, and support for publishing scientific articles. In academia, generous vacation allowances and opportunities for further education or research exchanges are also common.

Competition and challenges

The job market for linguists is limited, especially in academia where competition for permanent positions is fierce. Many researchers work on project basis or with temporary contracts, which can lead to some uncertainty regarding funding. At the same time, there is increasing demand for linguistic expertise in the tech sector, such as data analysis, machine learning, and language technology. A challenge is staying current in a rapidly evolving research landscape, where interdisciplinary skills become increasingly important. The ability to combine language science with digital tools and analysis methods can be crucial for standing out in the job market.

Tips for aspiring linguists

To succeed as a linguist, it’s good to have a strong curiosity and genuine interest in the complexity of language. Analytical skills facilitate processing large amounts of data, and perseverance is needed to drive research projects to completion. Being communicative and able to collaborate with colleagues from different fields is valuable, especially in interdisciplinary projects. Early engagement in research environments, writing and publishing articles, and participating in conferences are recommended. Building a strong network and applying for research funding are important for academic career advancement. Finally, the ability to think creatively and challenge established theories in linguistics is appreciated.

Key facts about linguists

• Average salary: 38 300 SEK/month
• Education level: Master's or doctoral degree in linguistics
• Work environment: Academic, research-based, often international
• Proportion of women in the profession: High, with women earning 102% of men's salaries
• Number of job openings: 620 (May 2024)

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, many linguists have developed specialized expertise in areas such as language technology, second language acquisition, or historical linguistics. Career opportunities include positions as university lecturers, research leaders, or language strategists in public sector and industry. Some choose to work in language technology companies or in translation and language consulting. According to the Swedish Employment Agency, there is no precise forecast for linguists, but the profession has about 620 job openings and the demand for language science skills is expected to grow in technology and education. Competition for permanent research positions is high, and mobility, international experience, and digital skills may be crucial for career development.

Common questions about linguists

• What does a linguist earn?
  - A linguist has an average salary of 38 300 SEK per month, with variations depending on education, sector, and experience.
• What education is needed to become a linguist?
  - Usually, a master's or doctoral degree in linguistics or language science is required.
• What is the job market like for linguists?
  - The job market is competitive, especially in academia, but there are also opportunities in technology, education, and consulting sectors.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn on average 102% of men's salaries in the profession.
• What are the most common workplaces for linguists?
  - Universities, research institutes, and language technology companies are common workplaces.
• How large is the salary variation?
  - The lowest salary is 31,500 SEK and the highest is 48,100 SEK per month, depending on sector and education.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, variations occur, but detailed statistics are lacking. Salaries tend to be higher in metropolitan areas.