Ytkemist

What does a Ytkemist do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Ytkemist works with investigating and developing surface properties of materials, which can include everything from corrosion protection and surface treatments to advanced analyses of interfaces between different materials. The tasks are often research-oriented and involve using advanced analytical methods and laboratory equipment to understand and improve material functionality. The work is usually performed in laboratory settings, but collaboration with production, quality departments, and external research partners is common. Ytkemists are found both within industry—especially in chemistry, pharmaceuticals, and materials engineering sectors—and at research institutes and universities.

Salary development over time

The salary for a Ytkemist has shown a stable and positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 48,000 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 50 500 SEK, which corresponds to an increase of about 5%. By 2024, the average salary has risen further to 53 200 SEK, an increase of nearly 5.4% compared to the previous year. This salary growth indicates a continued strong demand for specialist skills in surface chemistry, especially as advanced materials and sustainable solutions become increasingly important in industry. The market's increased demand for innovation and technical expertise has likely contributed to salary increases, as well as the relatively high level of education required for the profession.

Ytkemist salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 53 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 39,600 SEK/month (male, private sector worker, high school education), 40,300 SEK/month (female)
• Highest salary: 60,400 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, doctoral studies), 58,900 SEK/month (female)
• Hourly wage: 320 SEK
• Gender differences: Men earn 53 900 SEK, women 52 400 SEK (women earn 97% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data on regional salary differences are unavailable for this profession

Education and Qualifications

To work as a Ytkemist, a higher education in chemistry or materials science is usually required, often at the master’s or master of engineering level. Many in the profession also have postgraduate education, especially those engaged in advanced research or development. Practical laboratory experience and specialized analytical methods are often advantageous.

• Formal degree: Master’s or master of engineering in chemistry/materials science (5 years)
• Postgraduate studies: PhD is common for advanced research
• Internships: Laboratory internships and/or trainee programs during studies
• Certifications: Specialized courses in surface analysis or materials characterization
• Prerequisites: Science-oriented high school education

Common benefits and compensation

Ytkemists are often offered competitive benefits beyond base salary, such as occupational pension, wellness allowances, and flexible working hours. For employees in research-intensive companies or organizations, opportunities for skills development, conference participation, and sometimes bonus programs linked to project results are also available.

Competition and challenges

Demand for Ytkemists is generally stable, but competition for the most attractive positions can be fierce, especially within research and development-intensive companies. The lack of detailed labor market statistics makes it difficult to assess the exact level of competition, but there are signs that employers seek candidates with specialized skills and experience in advanced analytical methods. Another challenge is staying updated in rapidly evolving technical fields, which requires continuous professional development. Language skills and the ability to work in international projects can be crucial for standing out in the job market.

Tips for those aiming to become a Ytkemist

To succeed as a Ytkemist, it’s good to combine strong analytical skills with curiosity and perseverance. Developing a methodical approach during education makes it easier to handle advanced laboratory tasks and meticulous documentation. Communication skills are important, as it’s often necessary to present results to both technical and non-technical colleagues. Taking the initiative to internships and research projects during studies provides valuable experience and networks. Problem-solving ability is central, especially when unexpected results arise in research work. Being flexible and open to working in interdisciplinary teams is also advantageous, as collaboration is often key to success in the field.

Key facts about Ytkemist

• Education level: Master’s or master of engineering, often with postgraduate studies
• Work environment: Laboratories, research institutes, and industrial development environments
• Work form: Teamwork and interdisciplinary projects are common
• Demand: 143 job openings within the chemistry profession
• Special skills: Advanced surface analysis and materials characterization

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a Ytkemist can advance to roles such as project manager, specialist in material development, or research director, especially if postgraduate education has been obtained. It’s common to switch between industry, research institutes, and universities depending on interests and career goals. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service do not provide an exact assessment for Ytkemist due to limited data, but within the chemistry profession, there are 143 available positions, indicating some demand. Future prospects are influenced by industry needs for new materials and sustainable solutions, which suggest continued relevance for the profession, even though competition for the most attractive roles may be high.

Frequently asked questions about Ytkemist

• What is the average salary of a Ytkemist?
  - A Ytkemist has a mean monthly salary of 53 200 SEK.
• What are the gender salary differences within Ytkemist?
  - Men earn an average of 53 900 SEK, women 52 400 SEK; women earn 97% of what men do.
• What education is required to become a Ytkemist?
  - Usually, at least a master’s or master of engineering degree in chemistry or materials science, often with postgraduate studies.
• What is the highest reported salary for a Ytkemist?
  - The highest salary is 60,400 SEK per month (male, private sector employee, doctoral studies).
• Are there regional salary differences for Ytkemists?
  - No detailed statistics on regional salary differences are available for this profession.
• What is the job market like for Ytkemists?
  - There are 143 job openings within the chemistry profession, but no exact forecast for Ytkemist.
• What kind of work environment does a Ytkemist have?
  - Work primarily takes place in laboratories, research environments, and industry development departments.