Image that illustrates Printed matter signer

Printed matter signer

43 600 kr

Graphic designers etc.

39 200 - 48 600 kr / month

Women earn 93% of what men do.

Kultur, media, design

What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Printed matter signer

Average salary 43 600 kr
Males 45 000 kr
Females 41 800 kr

What does a print media illustrator do? – Tasks and work environment

A print media illustrator works on creating illustrations and graphic elements for printed media such as brochures, books, posters, and newspapers. Tasks often include both digital and manual drawing, image editing, layout work, and collaboration with graphic designers, authors, or marketing departments. The work is usually performed in an office environment, sometimes at advertising agencies, print houses, or publishing houses, but remote work and project-based assignments are also common. The role requires a good sense of color, form, and typography, as well as the ability to interpret clients' wishes into visual solutions.

Salary development over time

The salary for print media illustrators has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 40,500 SEK per month, which increased slightly to 40 800 SEK in 2023. The most noticeable rise occurred between 2023 and 2024, when the average salary increased to 43 600 SEK, representing a growth of approximately 6.9% over two years. This increase can be attributed to higher demand for digital skills, more project-based work, and increased specialization in graphic production. While the market has become more competitive, technological advancements and the need for unique visual expressions have increased the value of print media illustrators' skills.

Print media illustrator salary – comprehensive overview

  • Average salary: 43 600 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 39,200 SEK/month
  • Highest salary: 48,600 SEK/month
  • Hourly wage (average): 262 SEK
  • Men's average salary: 45 000 SEK
  • Women's average salary: 41 800 SEK
  • Women earn: 93% of what men do
  • Regional differences: Data varies, but metropolitan regions tend to offer higher salaries

Education and qualifications

To work as a print media illustrator, usually a post-secondary education in graphic design, illustration, or visual communication is required. Many professionals have studied at art colleges or vocational schools, and relevant work experience is often highly valued. Practical knowledge of digital tools and software is essential, along with a strong portfolio.

  • Post-secondary education: University or YH, 2–4 years
  • Courses in graphic design and illustration: Recommended
  • Internships or traineeships: Provide valuable experience
  • Design software skills: Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign
  • Portfolio: A requirement for most employment opportunities

Many print media illustrators combine freelance assignments with permanent employment or work across multiple creative fields, such as web design or animation. This diversity can increase job satisfaction and create more opportunities for assignments.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Print media illustrators often have access to wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and remote work options. Employee pensions, skills development, and insurance are other common benefits, especially in larger companies or organizations. Bonuses and project-based supplements may be offered for larger assignments.

Competition and challenges

The competition in the profession is relatively high, especially in metropolitan areas where many employers and clients are located. Digitalization has changed the job market, requiring print media illustrators to continuously develop their technical skills and adapt to new tools. Standing out in a competitive field can be challenging, and employers often seek a strong and up-to-date portfolio. Additionally, assignments are often project-based, leading to varying workloads and the need for good self-discipline.

Tips for aspiring print media illustrators

To succeed as a print media illustrator, it’s important to have a strong sense of color and form, as well as an eye for detail, which helps create appealing and functional illustrations. Curiosity and technical interest facilitate learning new design tools and software, and ongoing education through courses or self-study is beneficial. Persistence and the ability to accept constructive criticism are crucial, as the work process often involves multiple revisions. Good communication and responsiveness are important for collaborating with clients and colleagues, while confidence makes it easier to present and defend your ideas. Lastly, a well-developed portfolio is the best way to showcase your skills and stand out in the job market.

Key facts about print media illustrators

  • Average salary: 43 600 SEK/month
  • Salary range: 39,200–48,600 SEK/month
  • Education level: Post-secondary education, 2–4 years
  • Work environment: Office, advertising agency, or remote
  • Number of job openings: 620

Career paths and future outlook

After 3–5 years in the profession, a print media illustrator can develop into a specialist in illustration, art director, graphic designer, or project manager within print production. Many choose to freelance or start their own business to broaden their scope of work. According to the Employment Service, no precise future forecast exists for print media illustrators, but within the graphic design group, there were 620 job openings in Sweden at the latest measurement. Digitalization and new media influence demand, and broadening digital skills in design and animation can increase employment or assignment opportunities in the future.

Frequently asked questions about print media illustrators

  • What does a print media illustrator earn?
    - The average salary is 43 600 SEK per month, with salaries ranging from 39,200 to 48,600 SEK depending on experience, education, and employer.
  • What are the gender differences within the profession?
    - Men earn an average of 45 000 SEK and women 41 800 SEK, which means women earn 93% of men's salaries.
  • What education is required to become a print media illustrator?
    - Post-secondary education in graphic design, illustration, or visual communication, usually 2–4 years, along with a strong portfolio.
  • What is the job market like for print media illustrators?
    - The job market is competitive but offers good opportunities for those with broad skills, especially in digital design.
  • What are the job responsibilities of a print media illustrator?
    - The role includes illustration, image editing, layout work, and collaboration with other creatives to produce print-ready materials.
  • Are there regional salary differences?
    - Yes, salaries tend to be higher in metropolitan regions compared to smaller towns.
  • What career opportunities are available after a few years in the profession?
    - You can develop into roles such as art director, graphic designer, project manager, or start your own business.

Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Printed matter signer is 48600 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Privately employed officials with a post-secondary education, 3 years or more. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 43500 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Printed matter signer is 39200 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Privately employed workers. The lowest salary for a woman in this profession is 39700 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
25-34 87% 39500 kr 39600 kr
35-44 90% 45100 kr 45200 kr
45-54 97% 46100 kr 46300 kr
55-64 103% 40100 kr 40300 kr
Snitt 93% 43400 kr 43600 kr
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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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 Printed matter signer has the SSYK code 2172, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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