Radiation protection inspector

What does a radiation protection inspector do? – Tasks and work environment

A radiation protection inspector is responsible for monitoring, inspecting, and evaluating activities where ionizing radiation is used, such as in healthcare, industry, or research. The work involves ensuring compliance with laws and regulations regarding radiation protection, which includes reviewing routines, documentation, and technical equipment. Regular site visits, sampling, and interviews with personnel are common, as well as investigations of deviations or suspected incidents. Radiation protection inspectors often work in teams and collaborate with authorities and private actors, requiring good communication skills and precision. The work environment varies between office work and field inspections, sometimes requiring protective equipment when handling radiation sources.

Salary development over time

The profession of radiation protection inspector has experienced steady and positive salary growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 48,500 SEK per month, increasing in 2023 to 49700 SEK. In 2024, the average salary has further risen to 51 500 SEK, representing an increase of just over 6% during this period. This trend reflects a growing demand for specialized competence in radiation protection and a greater focus on safety issues in healthcare and industry. The salary increase can also be linked to higher educational requirements and the complex regulatory framework that demands updated expertise. Although the profession is relatively small, competition for qualified personnel has helped push salaries upward.

Radiation protection inspector salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 51 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 41,600 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, education shorter than 3 years)
• Highest salary: 58,500 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, research degree)
• Hourly wage (average): 310 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 51 800 SEK, women 50 500 SEK (women earn 97% of men’s salary)
• Regional differences: No data available

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a radiation protection inspector usually involves a scientific or technical university degree, often with a focus on physics or engineering. Advanced knowledge of radiation protection, legislation, and measurement techniques is central, and many employers also require experience from radiation-intensive environments. Internships, certification courses, and ongoing training are important for staying updated within the field.

• Formal degree: Scientific or technical university education, often 3–5 years
• Certifications: Courses in radiation protection, often arranged by authorities or universities
• Internships: Internships in healthcare, nuclear technology, or industry provide an advantage
• Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of physics and mathematics
• Tips for choosing: Opt for education with a focus on radiation physics or radiological safety

Common benefits and compensations

Radiation protection inspectors are often offered generous benefits such as occupational pension, wellness contributions, and opportunities for professional development through courses and conferences. Business travel, flexitime, and extra vacation days may be included, especially within state or municipal employers. In some cases, compensation for unsocial hours and access to protective equipment during fieldwork are provided.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a radiation protection inspector is low to moderate, mainly due to the high specialization and advanced education required. Challenges in the profession include interpreting and applying complex regulations, while technological development demands continuous training. Inspecting activities with potential health risks also requires high accuracy and integrity. Lack of clear career paths within smaller authorities can be a challenge, as well as the limited number of available positions. Despite this, there is a stable demand for expertise, especially in healthcare and nuclear technology.

Tips for aspiring radiation protection inspectors

To succeed as a radiation protection inspector, it is good to combine analytical skills with a genuine interest in safety issues and technology. Being precise and methodical facilitates handling complex regulations and technical investigations, while good communication skills are essential for collaborating with colleagues and reporting results to various stakeholders. Strong integrity helps stand firm in decision-making even under pressure, and a willingness to pursue ongoing education is necessary to keep pace with rapid technological developments. Flexibility and problem-solving skills make it easier to adapt to new tasks and environments. Finally, showing interest in international issues is an advantage, as the role sometimes involves cross-border cooperation.

Key facts about Radiation Protection Inspector

• Salary range: 41,600–58,500 SEK/month
• Average salary: 51 500 SEK/month
• Educational level: Scientific/technical university degree (3–5 years)
• Work environment: Combined office and field environment
• Demand: 143 job openings within the profession (May 2024)

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a radiation protection inspector, opportunities may open for roles such as senior inspector, specialist in radiation physics, or project manager for larger investigations. Some choose to advance to international organizations or authorities, while others deepen their expertise in nuclear or medical technology. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service are uncertain due to limited data, but demand for specialists in science and technical safety issues is considered stable. The number of job openings within the profession was 143 in May 2024, indicating good opportunities for those with the right skills and education.

Common questions about Radiation Protection Inspector

• What does a radiation protection inspector earn?
  - A radiation protection inspector has an average salary of 51 500 SEK per month.
• What does the salary range look like for the profession?
  - The salary interval is between 41,600 SEK and 58,500 SEK per month depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What education is required to become a radiation protection inspector?
  - A scientific or technical university degree, often with a focus on physics or radiation protection, is required.
• Are there differences in salary between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 97% of what men do within the profession.
• What does the job market look like for radiation protection inspectors?
  - Currently, there are 143 job openings within the profession, and demand is considered stable.
• Where do radiation protection inspectors work?
  - Most work in authorities, healthcare, nuclear power, or research, often in a combined office and field environment.
• What personal qualities are important in the profession?
  - Accuracy, analytical ability, and good communication skills are central qualities.