Talking box technician

What does an audiobook technician do? – Tasks and work environment

An audiobook technician works with production, editing, and quality assurance of audiobooks and other audio media, often within libraries or specialized audio production environments. Tasks include recording, editing, and processing audio files, as well as ensuring that products meet technical and accessibility standards. The technician often handles advanced audio equipment and software, collaborates with narrators, and is responsible for ensuring the final product is of high quality. The work environment is typically studio-based, involving both independent work and team collaboration.

Salary development over time

Audiobook technicians have experienced a clear positive salary development over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 35,100 SEK, which increased to 35 500 SEK in 2023, corresponding to an increase of about 1.1%. Between 2023 and 2024, the salary further rose to 38 600 SEK, representing a significant increase of approximately 8.7%. This development reflects increased demand for technical skills in audio and media production, as well as general salary adjustments within the field. Differences between annual salary levels may also be due to a greater focus on accessibility-adapted media and higher technical standards in production. Despite being a relatively small profession, audiobook technicians have followed a positive salary curve, making the career attractive for those with technical interests.

Audiobook technician salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 38 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 33,600 SEK/month (female), 36,100 SEK/month (male)
• Highest salary: 40,300 SEK/month (female), 43,700 SEK/month (male)
• Hourly wage (average): 232 SEK/hour
• Gender difference: Women earn 96% of what men do (37 300 SEK vs. 38 800 SEK)
• Regional differences: No specific data available

Education and qualifications

To work as an audiobook technician, a post-secondary education in audio engineering, media, or a related field is usually required, often complemented by practical experience in audio production. Many employers value technical competence and the ability to work with digital audio tools and software. Formal requirements vary, but a training shorter than three years is common, and internships or trainee positions often provide valuable experience.

• Education: Post-secondary training in audio engineering (typically 1–3 years)
• Certifications: Courses in audio production and digital tools can be advantageous
• Internships: Internships or trainee employment provide necessary experience
• Prerequisites: Basic technical understanding and interest in audio media
• Self-study: Online courses in audio editing and accessibility are common

Common benefits and compensations

Audiobook technicians often have access to benefits such as wellness allowances, skill development, flexible working hours, and in some cases, remote work options. Additional compensation may be provided for unsociable hours or special projects. Public sector workplaces may also offer longer vacations and subsidized lunches.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as an audiobook technician is limited, but the job market is also relatively small due to the specialization, primarily found within libraries, educational institutions, and larger audio production companies. Challenges include staying updated with rapid technological developments in audio production and maintaining high standards of quality and accessibility. Since audiobook production is often publicly funded, budget changes can impact job security. Combining technical knowledge with an understanding of accessibility issues is crucial for success in the profession.

Tips for aspiring audiobook technicians

To succeed as an audiobook technician, it’s beneficial to combine technical interest with meticulousness and patience, as audio editing requires both precision and endurance. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with narrators and project managers, especially when conveying technical instructions and feedback. Flexibility and the ability to quickly adapt to new tools and methods are also valuable, given the rapid technological development in audio production. Demonstrating engagement with accessibility and inclusion is a significant advantage, as final products often target users with special needs. Strong problem-solving skills help manage technical challenges during production. For further development, networking within the industry and continuous training in new audio techniques and software are recommended.

Key facts about audiobook technicians

• Educational level: Post-secondary education shorter than 3 years
• Work environment: Studio and office environment with advanced audio technology
• Typical employment: Full-time, sometimes project-based
• Gender distribution: Women earn 96% of men's salary
• Available jobs: 620

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an audiobook technician, many have opportunities to advance to more specialized roles within audio production, technical project management, or training new technicians. It is also possible to develop into roles such as radio sound engineer, podcast producer, or work in other accessible media production. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate a certain number of available jobs in the light, sound, and stage technician fields, but specific future outlooks for audiobook technicians are limited due to scarce data. The industry is influenced by technological development and digitalization, meaning demand for technical skills and adaptability is expected to remain high.

Frequently asked questions about audiobook technicians

• What does an audiobook technician earn?
  - The average salary for an audiobook technician is 38 600 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development looked for audiobook technicians?
  - Salaries have increased from 35,100 SEK in 2022 to 38 600 SEK in 2024, showing a positive trend.
• What education is required to become an audiobook technician?
  - A post-secondary education in audio engineering, typically shorter than three years, is recommended.
• Are there gender differences in salary for audiobook technicians?
  - Yes, women earn 96% of what men do within the profession.
• How many job openings are there in the profession?
  - Currently, there are 620 available jobs in the light, sound, and stage technician profession.
• Which workplaces hire audiobook technicians?
  - Audiobook technicians often work at libraries, audio production companies, and educational institutions.
• How high can the salary become for an audiobook technician?
  - The highest salary is 43,700 SEK for men and 40,300 SEK for women within the profession.