Administrative assistant

What does an administrative assistant do? – Tasks and work environment

An administrative assistant supports organizations by handling a wide range of administrative tasks. Common duties include managing documents, booking meetings, receiving visitors, handling correspondence, and sometimes basic financial tasks. The role often serves as a vital link between colleagues, management, and external contacts. The work environment is typically office-based, characterized by a fast pace, tight deadlines, and demands for good order and structure. Administrative assistants are found in both public and private sectors, and their tasks may vary depending on the size and focus of the organization.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for an administrative assistant has shown steady growth. In 2022, the average salary was 33,000 SEK per month. The following year, 2023, it increased to 34 300 SEK, representing an approximate 4 % increase. In 2024, the average salary has reached 35 600 SEK, a further increase of just over 3.8 % from the previous year. This positive salary trend reflects continued demand for administrative skills, although the growth rate has been somewhat lower than in some other professions. The salary increase can also be attributed to higher digital competence requirements and greater responsibilities. However, there are signals that demand may decrease in the long term, which could impact future salary development.

Administrative assistant salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 35 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,100 SEK/month (male, government sector)
• Highest salary: 54,200 SEK/month (female, public sector, research education)
• Hourly wage: 214 SEK
• Women earn: 35 500 SEK (99 % of men's salary)
• Men earn: 35 900 SEK
• Regional differences: Salaries can vary depending on region and sector

Education and qualifications

To work as an administrative assistant, a high school education with a focus on administration or economics is usually required. Many employers also value experience in similar roles and good IT and office system skills. Higher education or specialized courses can be advantageous and open doors to more qualified positions. Practical experience and strong organizational skills are highly valued in the profession.

• High school diploma: Economics or administrative focus (3 years)
• YH education: Administrator, 1–2 years (optional but advantageous)
• Certifications/courses: Office suite, digital administration
• Internship: Common during high school or YH education
• Prerequisites: Good Swedish, computer skills, sometimes English
• Tips: Specialize in digital tools and document management

Common benefits and compensations

Administrative assistants often have access to benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and occupational pension. Other common compensations include subsidized lunch, opportunities for skill development, and sometimes bonuses for special efforts. In the public sector, additional vacation days and favorable parental leave conditions may also be available.

Challenges and competition

The profession as an administrative assistant is characterized by moderate competition, with the job market generally in balance nationally. According to the Employment Service's forecast, demand for administrative assistants is expected to decrease over five years, which may increase competition for jobs in the future. Digitalization and automation of administrative processes require higher technical skills and adaptability. Nonetheless, there remains a significant need for skilled administrators, especially in larger organizations and the public sector. Challenges often include managing stress, multiple tasks simultaneously, and high service and accuracy expectations.

Tips for those aspiring to become an administrative assistant

To succeed as an administrative assistant, it is beneficial to have a strong sense of order and structure, as multitasking is often required. Being service-minded and attentive facilitates collaboration with colleagues and managers, while good communication skills make it easier to handle internal and external contacts. Flexibility is important to quickly adapt when tasks and priorities change. It is also recommended to regularly update IT skills and to take initiatives for improving work routines. Good judgment and the ability to work independently build trust and often lead to greater responsibilities. Demonstrating engagement and a willingness to develop can also open doors to more qualified roles in the future.

Key facts about Administrative Assistant

• Education level: High school diploma, often with administrative or economic focus
• Work environment: Office-based, often in larger organizations or the public sector
• Typical employment: Permanent employment, but temporary and hourly contracts also occur
• Demand: Moderate, but forecasted to decline in the next five years
• Special skills: Digital document management, Office suite, communication

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as an administrative assistant, there are opportunities to move into more qualified roles such as administrative coordinator, executive assistant, or office manager. Many choose to further their education in project management, HR, or finance to broaden their skills and increase career prospects. According to the Employment Service, the job market for office assistants and secretaries is balanced, but demand is expected to decrease somewhat over five years. This is mainly due to digitalization and streamlining of administrative processes. Despite this, there are still many job openings – currently totaling 758 in the profession – indicating ongoing demand in the near term. Combining administrative experience with specialization in digital tools or project support can enhance competitiveness for future roles.

Frequently asked questions about Administrative Assistant

• What does an administrative assistant earn?
  - The average salary is 35 600 SEK per month, but it can vary based on experience, education, and sector.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn 99 % of what men do in the profession. Men have an average of 35 900 SEK, women 35 500 SEK.
• What education is required to become an administrative assistant?
  - High school education with a focus on administration or economics is most common, but YH education or relevant courses are advantageous.
• What are the future prospects?
  - Demand is expected to decrease over five years according to the Employment Service, but the job market is considered balanced today.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for an administrative assistant?
  - The highest salary is 54,200 SEK (female, public sector, research education) and the lowest 27,100 SEK (male, government sector).
• What tasks does an administrative assistant perform?
  - Common tasks include document management, meeting scheduling, customer contact, financial assistance, and internal service.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salary levels vary between regions and sectors, with higher salaries in larger cities and certain parts of the public sector.