Radiation protection technician

What does a Radiation Protection Technician do? – Tasks and Work Environment

Radiation protection technicians work to prevent, monitor, and manage risks associated with ionizing radiation in areas such as nuclear power, healthcare, industry, and research. The profession involves controlling and measuring radiation levels, conducting risk assessments, establishing protective zones, and instructing staff on safety procedures. The work environment can vary from laboratories and hospitals to industrial facilities, often requiring high precision and strict adherence to safety regulations. Advanced measurement equipment and protective clothing are frequently used to minimize exposure risks.

Salary Development Over Time

Over the past three years, the salary for radiation protection technicians has increased from 38,100 SEK in 2022 to 43 800 SEK in 2023, representing an increase of about 15%. Subsequently, the salary has slightly decreased to 43 000 SEK in 2024, which is a reduction of approximately 2% compared to the previous year. This variation can partly be explained by changes in demand related to major projects in nuclear power and healthcare, as well as retirements within the profession. Despite the slight decline last year, the long-term trend remains positive, driven by increased safety and specialization requirements in the industry. Salary development is also influenced by education level and whether employment is in the public or private sector.

Radiation Protection Technician Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 43 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 37,400 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, high school education)
• Highest salary: 55,600 SEK/month (male, public sector, postgraduate education)
• Hourly wage: 259 SEK
• Women earn: 47 800 SEK/month (114% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 41 800 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salary variations may occur depending on the labor market and proximity to larger industries or hospitals.

Education and Qualifications

To work as a radiation protection technician, a minimum of high school education with a focus on technical or scientific subjects is usually required, often supplemented with post-secondary courses in radiation protection and safety. Many employers also value practical experience from nuclear operations or healthcare environments. Further education and certifications are advantageous and may be required for certain positions.

• High school education: Natural science or technical program (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: University courses in radiation protection, environmental technology, or safety (1–3 years)
• Certifications: Radiation safety training via SSM or equivalent authority
• Internship: Experience from nuclear power, industry, or healthcare is highly meritorious
• Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of physics and chemistry

Common Benefits and Compensation

In addition to base salary, benefits such as extra vacation days, wellness allowances, pension contributions, and compensation for unsociable hours are often offered. In some cases, allowances are provided for work in hazardous environments or on call. Opportunities for professional development and further training are also common.

Competition and Challenges

The job market for radiation protection technicians is relatively narrow, but demand remains stable due to legal requirements for radiation safety in several critical societal sectors. Challenges include keeping up with rapidly changing regulations and technical solutions, as well as handling tasks with high safety standards. Competition for the most attractive positions can be fierce, especially in larger cities or where major infrastructure projects are underway. Limited training spots and the requirement for practical experience can also make entry into the job market more demanding. At the same time, retirements and technological advancements continue to create new opportunities for qualified technicians.

Tips for Aspiring Radiation Protection Technicians

To succeed as a radiation protection technician, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a strong safety mindset. Precision and systematic work are essential, as small mistakes can have significant consequences. Developing good communication skills helps in collaborating with colleagues and training others on safety procedures. Flexibility and problem-solving abilities are valued, especially as tasks can vary quickly and require rapid decisions. A genuine interest in technology and science facilitates both education and daily work. Pursuing internships and networking within the industry provide valuable experience and contacts. Finally, resilience to stress is an advantage, as the work sometimes involves responding to unexpected events or alarms.

Key Facts about Radiation Protection Technicians

• Salary range: 37,400–55,600 SEK/month
• Gender difference: Women earn 114% of men's salary
• Education level: High school or university level, often with certification
• Work environment: Industry, healthcare, research, often teamwork and protective equipment
• Job openings: 191 advertised positions in the profession

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years in the profession, radiation protection technicians can advance to roles such as radiation safety coordinator, safety manager, or specialist within radiation safety at larger workplaces. There are also opportunities to work with staff training, consulting, or inspection assignments for authorities. According to the Employment Service, the profession is part of the safety inspectors group, with no specific forecast available, but demand is expected to remain stable due to legal safety requirements. Pensions and technological development are expected to continue creating demand for qualified technicians, although competition for specific positions may vary regionally.

Frequently Asked Questions about Radiation Protection Technicians

• What does a Radiation Protection Technician earn?
  - The average salary is 43 000 SEK per month, with a range between 37,400 and 55,600 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What education is required to become a Radiation Protection Technician?
  - Generally, high school technical/science education plus post-secondary courses in radiation protection and safety. Certifications and practical experience are advantageous.
• What is the job market like for radiation protection technicians?
  - The job market is stable with 191 available jobs in the profession, but competition may vary depending on region and specialization.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 114% of men's salaries, with an average salary of 47 800 SEK for women and 41 800 SEK for men.
• In which industries do radiation protection technicians work?
  - Common industries include nuclear power, healthcare, industry, and research.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for the profession?
  - The highest salary is 55,600 SEK (male, public sector, postgraduate education), and the lowest is 37,400 SEK (female, private sector, high school education).
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Accuracy, safety awareness, stress tolerance, and teamwork skills are essential qualities for the role.