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 49700 SEK in 2023 and further to 51 500 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: 51 500 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: 97% of men's salary (50 500 SEK/month vs 51 800 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

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: 51 500 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 97% 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 51 500 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 97% 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.