Technical translator

38 300 kr

Translators, interpreters and linguists etc.

31 500 - 48 100 kr / month

Women earn 102% of what men do.

Kultur, media, design

What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Technical translator

Average salary 38 300 kr
Males 37 700 kr
Females 38 500 kr

What does a technical translator do? – Tasks and work environment

A technical translator works with translating technical documentation, manuals, product descriptions, and other specialized literature between different languages. The focus is on conveying complex technical information accurately and understandably, requiring both linguistic precision and deep understanding of the subject area. The work environment is usually office-based, but remote work and digital collaboration are common. Projects often have tight deadlines and demand independence as well as cooperation with engineers, technicians, and other specialists.

Salary development over time

Salaries for technical translators have changed significantly over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 34,700 SEK per month, while in 2023 it decreased slightly to 33 500 SEK. During 2024, the average salary increased markedly to 38 300 SEK, representing an increase of over 14% since 2023. This trend can be linked to increased demand for language specialists in the tech sector and digitalization, where companies prioritize accurate and multilingual documentation. A shortage of qualified technical translators and higher demands for specialized skills have also contributed to rising wages in the profession.

Technical translator salary – comprehensive overview

  • Average salary: 38 300 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 31,500 SEK/month
  • Highest salary: 48,100 SEK/month
  • Hourly wage (average): 230 SEK
  • Women: 38 500 SEK/month (102% of men's salary)
  • Men: 37 700 SEK/month
  • Regional differences: No specific data available

Education and qualifications

Becoming a technical translator often involves postgraduate studies in languages, translation, or technology. Many hold a bachelor's degree in translation or linguistics supplemented with technical subjects, and some have specialized training in fields like engineering sciences. Internships, certifications, and continuous professional development are common to meet industry standards. Prior knowledge of both language and technology is essential for success.

  • Bachelor's degree in translation, language, or technology (3 years)
  • Specialized courses in technical translation
  • Certifications as authorized translator
  • Internships or trainee programs at translation agencies
  • Proficiency in at least two languages and technical understanding
  • Online courses and self-study to stay updated

Many technical translators work closely with development teams and often gain early insight into technological innovations, which means the profession constantly offers new challenges and knowledge.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Technical translators are often offered perks such as flexible working hours, remote work options, and wellness allowances. Other common benefits include occupational pension, professional development, and access to language technology tools. In some cases, bonuses related to project delivery or productivity are also provided.

Competition and challenges

The competition within the profession varies depending on language and technical specialization. Major challenges include rapid technological development and the need to constantly update linguistic and technical skills. Automated translation tools have raised quality standards, requiring human translators to add value through deeper understanding and better adaptation to the target audience. Job availability is good in certain tech areas, but documented experience and specialized knowledge are often necessary to compete for the most attractive positions.

Tips for aspiring technical translators

To succeed as a technical translator, it’s important to have a strong language sense and a genuine interest in technology. Precision is crucial, so always double-check terminology and stay current with industry terminology. An analytical mindset helps when translating complex texts without losing technical content. Networking with other translators and technicians provides support and new opportunities. Flexibility and the ability to quickly familiarize oneself with new subject areas are valuable qualities, as is ongoing education to meet changing employer and client requirements.

Key facts about technical translators

  • Average salary: 38 300 SEK/month
  • Salary range: 31,500–48,100 SEK/month
  • Gender distribution: Women earn 102% of men's salary
  • Educational level: Bachelor's degree with a technical focus is common
  • Number of job openings in the profession: 620

Career paths and future outlook

After a few years of experience, a technical translator can advance to roles such as project manager for translation projects, language reviewer, or specialist within a specific technical field. Some move on to become terminologists or trainers in translation technology. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service show no specific assessment for the profession, but there is a broad range of job opportunities, and demand for specialized translators is expected to remain. Digitalization and globalization drive development, making skilled technical translators with digital competence highly employable.

Frequently asked questions about technical translators

  • What does a technical translator earn?
    - The average salary is 38 300 SEK per month, but it can vary between 31,500 and 48,100 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
  • How does one become a technical translator?
    - Most commonly, a bachelor's degree in translation or language, supplemented with technical subjects and experience in technical documentation.
  • Are there salary differences between women and men?
    - Yes, women earn on average 102% of what men do in the profession.
  • Which workplaces hire technical translators?
    - Work is available at translation agencies, technology companies, government agencies, and within the freelance sector.
  • What are the future prospects?
    - Demand remains stable within the profession, especially for translators with technical specialization and digital skills.
  • Is certification needed to work as a technical translator?
    - Certification can be advantageous but is rarely a requirement. Practical experience and technical knowledge are highly valued.
  • What is the work environment like?
    - The work environment is mostly office-based, with opportunities for remote work and flexible hours.

Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Technical translator is 48100 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Privately employed workers with a postgraduate education. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 47100 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Technical translator is 31500 kr. This salary belongs to a woman also working in the Government sector. The lowest salary for a man in this profession is 34200 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
35-44 36200 kr 36700 kr
45-54 37500 kr 38200 kr
55-64 41100 kr 41700 kr
Snitt 102% 37700 kr 38300 kr
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
Register an account before you can comment

To write a comment you need to create an account.


Default Avatar

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 Technical translator has the SSYK code 2643, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

Search salary statistics for occupation
8000 kr
<-|->
90000 kr
Vacant jobs
Similar occupations
Latest posts
  • Public Opinion - Opinion Poll Status Novus: Unchanged Support – Social Democrats Largest
    Wed, 19 Nov 2025 - 08:35
  • National Debt - The National Debt – Level, Development, and Significance for Sweden
    Wed, 8 Oct 2025 - 08:00
Salary, Taxes, and Fees
Net salary 31 377
Net salary
31 377
Taxes
11 738
Fees
12 129

With our Swedish tax calculator, you can easily calculate your after-tax income (net salary).

Swedish Church Member

* Updated with 2025 taxes