Ultrasound tester

What does an Ultrasound Tester do? – Tasks and Work Environment

An ultrasound tester works with inspecting materials and components using ultrasound technology to detect defects, cracks, or other anomalies. This type of testing is primarily used in industry, such as manufacturing, energy, or transportation sectors, where safety and quality are critical. Tasks may include preparing test objects, performing measurements, interpreting signals, and documenting results. The work environment varies between laboratory settings and production facilities, and the work may involve independent assignments or collaboration within technical teams. Precision, responsibility, and the ability to interpret technical data are essential qualities in this role.

Salary Development Over Time

Ultrasound testers have experienced stable salary growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 38,700 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 39 900 SEK in 2023. By 2024, the average salary has continued to rise to 41 700 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 7.8% over three years. This positive trend reflects increased demand for specialized technical skills in industry and a higher valuation of qualified laboratory personnel. Factors such as technological development, quality assurance requirements, and the need for certified personnel have likely contributed to rising salaries. Differences between regions and employers exist, with private employers often offering slightly higher wages than public sector employers.

Ultrasound Tester Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 41 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,800 SEK/month (woman, private employee, high school education)
• Highest salary: 52,000 SEK/month (woman, private employee, postgraduate education)
• Hourly wage: 251 SEK (average, 166 hours/month)
• Women earn: 40 900 SEK/month (96% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 42 600 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Small but noticeable; private employers tend to offer higher salaries than public ones.

Education and Qualifications

To work as an ultrasound tester, a post-secondary technical education is usually required, often with a focus on materials engineering, mechanical engineering, or similar fields. Specific certifications in non-destructive testing (NDT) and practical experience in industry are often demanded. The educational path can vary depending on the sector, but the focus is on technical understanding, practical measurement, and quality assurance.

• Formal education: Vocational college or university engineering degree (2–3 years)
• Certification: NDT certification according to ISO 9712 (ultrasound testing, levels 1–3)
• Internship: Often a requirement for practical training or trainee periods in industry
• Prerequisites: Technical high school education and good knowledge of mathematics/physics
• Further education: Opportunities for specialized courses and laboratory exercises

Common Benefits and Compensation

Ultrasound testers are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, occupational pensions, and opportunities for skill development. Other common compensations include overtime pay, extra vacation days, staff discounts, and sometimes bonuses for project completion or special achievements. Flexible working hours and the possibility to work in modern laboratory environments are also appreciated features.

Competition and Challenges

The competition for ultrasound testing positions is moderate, especially for those with the right certifications and work experience. A challenge is to stay updated with technological advances and changes in standards for non-destructive testing. Since employers often seek specialized personnel, it can be difficult for recent graduates without practical experience to establish themselves quickly. Additionally, the profession demands high accuracy and responsibility, as incorrect assessments can have serious consequences. The job market is also influenced by economic cycles in heavy industry, transportation, and energy sectors.

Tips for Aspiring Ultrasound Testers

To succeed as an ultrasound tester, it is beneficial to combine technical curiosity with precision and a sense of responsibility. The first step is to pursue relevant technical education and seek opportunities for internships or summer jobs in industry to gain practical experience. Being analytical is an advantage, as the work often involves interpreting complex measurement data and detecting hidden faults. Good communication skills facilitate teamwork and reporting results. It is also wise to identify which certifications are in demand early on and plan to obtain them, as the right certificates can be crucial for employment. Flexibility and a willingness to learn new methods are also important traits to meet technological developments in the field.

Key Facts about Ultrasound Testers

• Salary range: 31,800–52,000 SEK/month
• Education requirements: Vocational college or engineering degree with NDT certification
• Work environment: Laboratory and industrial production
• demand: 564 available jobs in the field
• Gender differences: Women earn 96% of men's salary

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years in the profession, an ultrasound tester can advance to specialist roles in non-destructive testing, become responsible for quality assurance, or work as a technical expert in larger companies. Some choose to further their education to become laboratory engineers or take on project management roles within production and maintenance. The future prospects are considered stable but difficult to predict according to the Employment Service, as the profession is part of a broader occupational group where demand is influenced by economic cycles and technological progress. Currently, there are 564 available jobs in the laboratory engineering field, and the demand for certified personnel is expected to remain strong as quality and safety requirements increase in industry.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ultrasound Testers

• What is the average salary of an Ultrasound Tester?
  - The average salary is 41 700 SEK per month.
• Are there significant salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn on average 40 900 SEK and men 42 600 SEK, which means women earn approximately 96% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become an ultrasound tester?
  - A post-secondary technical education and certification in non-destructive testing (NDT) are usually required.
• What does the work environment look like for ultrasound testers?
  - The work environment varies between laboratories and industrial settings, often with high demands on safety and accuracy.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for ultrasound testers?
  - The highest salary is 52,000 SEK and the lowest is 31,800 SEK per month, depending on education, gender, and employment type.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The outlook is stable but uncertain according to the Employment Service, with 564 available jobs in the field.
• What benefits are common in this profession?
  - Common benefits include wellness allowances, occupational pensions, and opportunities for skill development.