- Salary statistics
- Radiation protection physicist salary
Radiation protection physicist salary
Latest available salary statistics are for 2025. Compare average pay, salary range and related job listings.
44 500 - 61 000 SEK / month
Women earn 93% of what men do.
Naturvetenskapligt arbete
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Salary progression Radiation protection physicist
What does a radiation protection physicist do? – Tasks and work environment
A radiation protection physicist works with analyzing, measuring, and minimizing risks associated with ionizing and non-ionizing radiation in areas such as healthcare, nuclear power, research, and industry. The work involves ensuring compliance with radiation protection legislation and safety regulations, developing routines to protect personnel and the public, and evaluating and optimizing the use of radiation sources. The work is often carried out in close collaboration with engineers, doctors, and other specialists, and the work environment includes both office-based tasks and operational settings, such as hospitals, laboratories, or nuclear facilities. Radiation protection physicists have a significant responsibility to educate and inform about radiation safety and act as advisors during risk assessments and incidents.
Salary development over time
The salary for radiation protection physicists has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 48,500 SEK per month, which increased to 49300 SEK in 2023 and further to 53 100 SEK in 2024. The total increase over this period amounts to approximately 6.2%, which is higher than the average for many other natural science professions. Behind this positive salary development is an increased demand for radiation protection expertise in both healthcare and the energy sector, as well as a growing need for qualified personnel with advanced education in physics and radiation safety. The salary growth has been somewhat stronger for men than for women, but the differences are relatively small. The market is characterized by competition for skills, which drives up salaries for the most experienced and specialized radiation protection physicists.
Radiation protection physicist salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 53 100 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 41,600 SEK/month (female, private sector, less than 3-year post-secondary education)
- Highest salary: 58,500 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, with doctoral degree)
- Highest salary for women: 56,500 SEK/month
- Lowest salary for men: 44,900 SEK/month
- Hourly wage (average): 310 SEK
- Women earn: 93% of men's salary (50 300 SEK/month vs 54 200 SEK/month)
- Regional differences: Data unavailable, but variation may occur depending on the job market and sector.
Education and qualifications
To work as a radiation protection physicist, a higher education in physics or technical physics is usually required, often at least a master's level. Many also have specialized courses in radiation protection or doctoral studies in relevant areas, especially for roles with greater responsibility or within research. Practical experience, such as through internships or trainee programs, is highly valuable and often a requirement for employment in more advanced or safety-critical environments.
- Educational level: Master's degree in physics or technical physics (5 years)
- Specialized courses: Radiation protection, radiological safety, and measurement technology
- Doctoral studies: Meritorious or sometimes required for certain positions, especially in the public sector
- Internships/trainee programs: Strongly recommended for gaining operational experience
- Certifications: May be required depending on employer and field of work
Many radiation protection physicists work closely with multidisciplinary teams, where communication and the ability to translate theory into practical solutions are crucial. These specialists often become key personnel in major research projects or demanding safety investigations.
Common benefits and compensations
In addition to a monthly salary, benefits such as wellness allowances, extra vacation days, occupational pension, and opportunities for skill development in advanced technology and safety work are often offered. Some employers may also provide flexible working hours, training during working hours, and compensation for standby or unsocial hours.
Challenges and competition
Radiation protection physicists operate within a relatively small but specialized job market where demand for qualified skills remains stable. Challenges may include high requirements for formal education, ongoing certification, and continuous updates on new research findings and legislation. The work demands precision, analytical skills, and the ability to handle complex safety issues. Competition for the most attractive positions is noticeable, especially in research and larger industrial companies, but there are also good career development opportunities for those with the right profile. The lack of current forecasts makes future recruitment difficult to assess, but the number of available jobs suggests ongoing demand for expertise.
Tips for aspiring radiation protection physicists
To succeed as a radiation protection physicist, a genuine interest in physics and technology combined with high analytical skills is beneficial. Being meticulous and methodical facilitates risk analysis and measurements, while good communication skills are essential for educating and guiding other professionals in radiation safety. Problem-solving ability and a structured work approach are crucial for identifying and managing potential risks. Flexibility and the ability to collaborate across disciplines are also advantageous, as the work often involves working with medical staff, engineers, and authorities. Keeping up to date with new research and regulations is a given, and experience with advanced measurement technology increases chances of obtaining qualified roles.
Key facts about Radiation Protection Physicists
- Average salary: 53 100 SEK/month
- Education level: Master's degree or doctoral studies in physics/technical physics
- Work environment: Hospitals, nuclear facilities, laboratories
- Gender salary gap: Women earn 93% of men's salaries
- Number of job openings: 143
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a radiation protection physicist, career paths can lead to specialist roles within hospital physics, responsibility for radiation safety in larger industries, or further into research and teaching. With increased experience, opportunities also include becoming a project manager for larger safety projects or working as a consultant in radiation safety. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, no specific assessment is made for radiation protection physicists due to limited data, but the broader profession “Physicists and Astronomers” shows stable demand with 143 available positions. Specialization and further education in areas such as nuclear technology or medical physics can open additional doors in both private and public sectors.
Frequently asked questions about Radiation Protection Physicists
- What is the average salary of a radiation protection physicist?
- The average salary is 53 100 SEK per month. - What does the salary range look like for radiation protection physicists?
- The lowest salary is 41,600 SEK and the highest salary is 58,500 SEK per month. - Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
- Yes, women earn 93% of men's salaries in the profession. - What education is required to become a radiation protection physicist?
- At least a master's degree in physics or technical physics, preferably with specialization in radiation protection. - What is the job market like for radiation protection physicists?
- The job market is considered stable within the profession, with 143 reported job openings. - Where do radiation protection physicists primarily work?
- Most commonly in hospitals, nuclear facilities, and laboratories.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 99% | 42300 kr | 42500 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 50900 kr | 51100 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 57600 kr | 57800 kr |
| 55-64 | 65700 kr | 65800 kr | |
| Snitt | 93% | 52900 kr | 53100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 104% | 38900 kr | 38900 kr |
| 25-34 | 101% | 42500 kr | 42600 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 50300 kr | 50500 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 56500 kr | 56700 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 62200 kr | 62300 kr |
| 65-68 | 111% | 62400 kr | 62400 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 51300 kr | 51400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 104% | 38900 kr | 38900 kr |
| 25-34 | 102% | 42400 kr | 42600 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 49400 kr | 49500 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 55800 kr | 55900 kr |
| 55-64 | 93% | 61300 kr | 61300 kr |
| 65-68 | 61200 kr | 61200 kr | |
| Snitt | 95% | 50600 kr | 50700 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 100% | 42500 kr | 42900 kr |
| 35-44 | 95% | 52500 kr | 52800 kr |
| 45-54 | 96% | 58800 kr | 59000 kr |
| 55-64 | 101% | 64700 kr | 65000 kr |
| 65-68 | 105% | 65300 kr | 65300 kr |
| Snitt | 94% | 53100 kr | 53400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 65800 kr | 66100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 65800 kr | 66100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 99% | 42500 kr | 42600 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 51200 kr | 51400 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 57600 kr | 57800 kr |
| 55-64 | 66500 kr | 66600 kr | |
| Snitt | 93% | 54100 kr | 54200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 104% | 38200 kr | 38200 kr |
| 25-34 | 101% | 42400 kr | 42500 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 50500 kr | 50700 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 56600 kr | 56700 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 62200 kr | 62300 kr |
| 65-68 | 111% | 61400 kr | 61400 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 51800 kr | 52000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 104% | 38200 kr | 38200 kr |
| 25-34 | 102% | 42300 kr | 42400 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 49700 kr | 49800 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 55800 kr | 55900 kr |
| 55-64 | 93% | 61800 kr | 61800 kr |
| 65-68 | 60700 kr | 60700 kr | |
| Snitt | 95% | 51200 kr | 51300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 100% | 42600 kr | 42800 kr |
| 35-44 | 95% | 53700 kr | 53900 kr |
| 45-54 | 96% | 60000 kr | 60200 kr |
| 55-64 | 101% | 64300 kr | 64600 kr |
| 65-68 | 105% | 64000 kr | 64000 kr |
| Snitt | 94% | 54700 kr | 55000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 99% | 42000 kr | 42400 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 50300 kr | 50500 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 57500 kr | 57700 kr |
| Snitt | 93% | 50100 kr | 50300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 104% | 39700 kr | 39700 kr |
| 25-34 | 101% | 42700 kr | 43000 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 49700 kr | 49900 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 56400 kr | 56600 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 61900 kr | 61900 kr |
| 65-68 | 111% | 68000 kr | 68000 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 49800 kr | 50100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 104% | 39700 kr | 39700 kr |
| 25-34 | 102% | 42800 kr | 43100 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 48300 kr | 48400 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 55900 kr | 55900 kr |
| 55-64 | 93% | 57200 kr | 57200 kr |
| Snitt | 95% | 48400 kr | 48600 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 100% | 42500 kr | 42900 kr |
| 35-44 | 95% | 51100 kr | 51400 kr |
| 45-54 | 96% | 57200 kr | 57600 kr |
| 55-64 | 101% | 65400 kr | 65500 kr |
| 65-68 | 105% | 67000 kr | 67000 kr |
| Snitt | 94% | 51400 kr | 51800 kr |
About the data
All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.
All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.
Profession Radiation protection physicist has the SSYK code 2111, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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