What does an administrator in public administration do? – Tasks and work environment
An administrator, case officer, or researcher in public administration is responsible for handling and investigating cases, coordinating processes, and ensuring decisions are made according to applicable laws and guidelines. Tasks can include managing citizen cases, filing and document management, data analysis, preparing decision bases, and participating in projects. The work is characterized by collaboration with colleagues, authorities, and sometimes citizens. The environment is usually office-based and features a structured work pace with clear deadlines and demands for accuracy.
Salary development over time
The salaries for administrators, case officers, and researchers in public administration have steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,200 SEK, rising to 44 700 SEK in 2023 and further to 46 500 SEK in 2024. This represents an increase of approximately 7.6% over three years. Factors driving this development include increased demand for qualified investigators and a growing need for administration as the public sector digitalizes and takes on more complex tasks. At the same time, collective agreements and annual salary revisions have contributed to a stable salary progression for the profession.
Administrator in public administration salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 46 500 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 30,200 SEK/month (female, government sector, pre-secondary education)
- Highest salary: 60,200 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, doctoral degree)
- Hourly wage (average): 280 SEK
- Men's average salary: 48 800 SEK
- Women's average salary: 45 300 SEK (93% of men's salary)
- Regional differences: Salaries vary slightly depending on region and employer, with higher levels in larger cities.
Education and qualifications
The path to becoming an administrator, case officer, or researcher in public administration usually involves higher education, preferably in social sciences, law, or economics. For some positions, work experience is highly valued, but many employers require a formal degree and good ability to interpret regulations. Skills in digital systems, project management, and communication are also sought after.
- Higher education: Usually 3–4 years in social sciences, law, or economics
- Courses/certifications: Applied administrative knowledge, digital case management
- Internship: Often merit-worthy within authorities or public sector
- Prerequisites: Secondary education and often relevant work experience
- Tips for choosing: Combine education with internships for increased competitiveness
Many case officers and researchers in public administration have the opportunity to influence societal development by working on issues related to everything from the environment and education to safety and integration. Understanding the role and mission of the public sector adds an extra dimension to the work.
Common benefits and compensations
Common benefits for administrators, case officers, and researchers in public administration include collectively negotiated pensions, generous vacation policies, wellness allowances, and flexible working hours. Professional development and training are also often part of the employment. Sick insurance and subsidized lunches may also be offered depending on the employer.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as an administrator, case officer, or researcher in public administration is assessed as moderate. According to the Employment Service's forecasts for the "Planners and Investigators" occupational group, demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, indicating a balance between supply and demand in the labor market. Challenges in the profession often involve managing complex regulations, adapting to digital work methods, and quickly familiarizing oneself with new issues. Effective communication and prioritization skills are crucial for success. At the same time, digitalization increases demands for technical competence and willingness to change.
Tips for those who want to become an administrator in public administration
To succeed as an administrator, case officer, or researcher in public administration, it is good to combine accuracy with strong analytical skills. Being organized facilitates handling large amounts of information and complex cases, while communication skills are needed to collaborate with colleagues and other actors. Flexibility is an asset when regulations change or new tasks arise, and an interest in social issues is often a driving force. To strengthen your position in the job market, it is recommended to gain early experience in public administration, for example through internships or summer jobs. It is also advantageous to stay updated on digital tools and processes, and actively seek further training in relevant areas. Finally, initiative and a solutions-oriented approach are appreciated by most employers in the sector.
Key facts about an administrator, case officer/researcher, in public administration
- Education level: Higher education in social sciences, law, or economics
- Work environment: Office-based, structured, and digitally oriented
- Work form: Full-time, often flexible hours
- Demand: 758 job openings in 2024
- Future prospects: Medium-sized, unchanged demand over five years
Career paths and future outlook
After three to five years in the role of administrator, case officer, or researcher in public administration, there are good opportunities to advance to more specialized positions or leadership roles, such as project manager, operations developer, or department head. Many choose to deepen their expertise within specific areas or to work on strategic investigations. According to the Employment Service's forecast for the "Planners and Investigators" occupational group, the labor market is expected to be balanced with medium opportunities and unchanged demand over five years. The digital transformation and the need for more efficient processes are expected to create new career paths for those interested in organizational development and change management.
Frequently asked questions about an administrator, case officer/researcher, in public administration
- What is the salary of an administrator, case officer/researcher, in public administration?
- The average salary is 46 500 SEK per month, but it varies depending on experience, education, and sector.
- Are there large salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn on average 93% of what men do in the profession.
- What are the future prospects for the profession?
- According to the Employment Service, demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, and job opportunities are assessed as medium.
- What education is required to work as a case officer/researcher in public administration?
- Usually, a university degree in social sciences, law, economics, or similar is required.
- What tasks does an administrator in public administration perform?
- Tasks include case handling, investigations, documentation, and process coordination.
- Is there room for advancement within the profession?
- Yes, with experience, one can progress to more qualified or leadership positions such as operations developer or manager.
- How many job openings are available in the profession?
- There are 758 available jobs according to current statistics.
