Administrator, salaries

What does an administrator in salaries do? – Tasks and work environment

An administrator in salaries is responsible for ensuring that salary payments are correct and on time for all employees within an organization. Tasks include handling salary calculations, checking time reports, managing absence and leave administration, and contacting authorities regarding taxes and social security contributions. The role requires accuracy, integrity, and a good understanding of collective agreements and employment law. The work environment is usually office-based, with daily work carried out in close collaboration with finance and HR departments, using digital payroll systems as primary tools.

Salary development over time

The salary development for administrators in salaries has been stable with a positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 35,800 SEK per month, increasing to 37 900 SEK in 2023 and further to 39 000 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 9% over three years. The rise can partly be explained by increased demand for qualified payroll administration due to digitization and more complex regulations. The shortage of experienced payroll administrators has also contributed to rising salaries, while competition for skills remains high in the job market.

Administrator, salaries – complete overview

• Average salary: 39 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 32,500 SEK/month (men), 33,000 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 46,000 SEK/month (men), 42,800 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 234 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 97% of what men do (men: 40 200 SEK, women: 38 900 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary between regions, but the largest difference is seen between public and private sectors and education levels

Education and qualifications

To work as an administrator focused on salaries, a high school diploma in economics or administration is usually required, often supplemented with post-secondary courses in payroll management. Many employers value certifications and experience with specific payroll systems. Internships or trainee programs are common pathways into the profession and provide valuable insight into the tasks. Self-study and online courses can strengthen knowledge for those switching careers or seeking further specialization.

• High school education: Economics or administration program (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: YH training in payroll (1–2 years) or university courses
• Certifications: For example, Srf Payroll Training
• Internships: Employers often offer trainee positions
• Prerequisites: Good knowledge of Swedish, mathematics, and IT systems

Common benefits and compensations

Payroll administrators are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and the possibility of remote work. Occupational pensions, insurances, and skills development are common, especially in larger organizations. Many workplaces also offer subsidized lunches or staff discounts.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as payroll administrators is paradoxical: despite many qualified candidates, there are reported difficulties in finding the right expertise, especially with experience in modern payroll systems and current regulations. The profession requires continuous updates on legislation and collective agreements, which can be challenging for both recent graduates and experienced professionals. Additionally, digitization means tasks are changing rapidly, and higher technical competence is demanded. Stress levels can be high, especially during payroll runs and year-end processes.

Tips for those wanting to become payroll administrators

To succeed as a payroll administrator, it is good to combine accuracy with a strong ability to meet deadlines. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with colleagues and help solve problems quickly when questions about wages or deductions arise. Flexibility is an important trait, as regulations and routines often change and require adaptation. An analytical mindset helps understand complex payroll issues and detect errors in large data sets. Continuously updating knowledge of payroll systems and employment law gives an advantage in the job market, while an interest in technology makes transitioning to new digital tools easier. Finally, integrity is crucial, as the role involves handling sensitive personal data.

Key facts about Administrator, salaries

• Education level: High school diploma supplemented with YH or university courses
• Work environment: Office-based, often hybrid or remote options
• Demand: Great opportunities according to the Employment Service
• Number of job vacancies: 758 advertised positions within the profession
• Special skills: Experience with digital payroll systems and current regulations

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, opportunities open to advance to roles such as payroll manager, HR specialist, or payroll system consultant. Some choose further education and work with broader personnel issues or move toward controller roles focusing on wages and personnel economics. According to the Employment Service's forecast, demand for payroll and personnel administrators is expected to remain high over the next five years, with a stable job market where digital competence becomes increasingly important. Despite the paradoxical recruitment situation—where both unemployment and recruitment difficulties exist—job opportunities are expected to remain stable and good. Regionally, competition may be higher in metropolitan areas, but there is also a clear demand for specialized skills.

Frequently asked questions about Administrator, salaries

• What does an Administrator, salaries earn?
  - The average salary is 39 000 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, sector, and education level.
• What are the gender differences in salaries?
  - Men earn on average 40 200 SEK and women 38 900 SEK, which means women earn 97% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become an administrator in salaries?
  - High school diploma in economics or administration, often supplemented with YH or university courses in payroll management.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The Employment Service assesses that job opportunities are great and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• Are there opportunities for career development?
  - Yes, experienced administrators can advance to roles such as payroll manager, HR specialist, or payroll system consultant.
• What benefits are common for administrators in salaries?
  - Common benefits include wellness allowances, flexible working hours, occupational pensions, and opportunities for skills development.
• How big is the difference between the highest and lowest salary?
  - The highest salary is 46,000 SEK per month, and the lowest is 32,500 SEK per month, depending on sector, education, and experience.