Alcohol handler

What does an Alcohol Case Officer do? – Tasks and work environment

Alcohol Case Officers primarily work within municipal or government agencies and are responsible for handling cases related to alcohol licensing, supervision, and inspection of licensed premises, as well as providing advice and information to businesses and the public. Tasks include reviewing applications for licenses, making assessments based on legislation and local guidelines, and conducting inspections and controls. The work environment is mostly office-based but may also involve visits to restaurants, bars, and events, often at irregular hours. The profession requires strong communication skills and a meticulous, objective working approach, as decisions can significantly impact businesses and society.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for Alcohol Case Officers has shown a steady upward trend. In 2022, the average salary was 36,100 SEK per month, increasing to 37 200 SEK in 2023. The most recent year, 2024, has seen the average salary rise further to 38 900 SEK. This represents a total increase of approximately 7.7% over the period. The rise can be partly linked to an increased focus on legal certainty and control within alcohol legislation, which has raised the competence requirements and thus the value of the role. Despite this, salary growth remains moderate compared to some other civil service professions, which is typical for administrative roles in the public sector.

Alcohol Case Officer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 38 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,000 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 49,300 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 234 SEK
• Men's average salary: 41 500 SEK/month
• Women's average salary: 38 000 SEK/month
• Women earn: 92% of men's salary

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming an Alcohol Case Officer usually involves post-secondary education, preferably in law, social sciences, or public administration. Experience in regulatory authority work and knowledge of alcohol legislation is particularly meritorious for many employers. Practical experience, such as internships or trainee positions within the public sector, can give an advantage in the job market. The ability to interpret laws, work independently, and communicate clearly are central qualities.

• Post-secondary education: 2–3 years in law, social sciences, or administration
• Courses in alcohol legislation: Often required or highly meritorious
• Internship/trainee in the public sector: Recommended
• Experience in regulatory authority work: Valuable for recruitment
• Knowledge of administrative law: Advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Alcohol Case Officers often have access to collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowances, and flexible working hours. In the public sector, additional insurances, opportunities for skill development, and sometimes extra vacation days are offered, especially for longer employment periods. Some employers also provide support for further education or specialization, for example in supervision work.

Competition and challenges

The job market for Alcohol Case Officers is characterized by balance, with moderate opportunities nationwide. However, demand is expected to decrease over the next five years, mainly due to increased automation and technological development within case processing. Competition for the most attractive positions may therefore increase, especially in larger urban areas where the number of applicants is often higher. The role also demands high integrity, legal certainty, and the ability to handle complex cases under time pressure. Changes in legislation and political priorities can quickly affect workload and requirements within the profession.

Tips for those wanting to become an Alcohol Case Officer

To succeed as an Alcohol Case Officer, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with meticulousness and an ethical approach. Gaining early experience in regulatory authority work, such as through internships or summer jobs in the public sector, provides a clear advantage. Strong communication skills are crucial, as the role involves many contacts with businesses and the public. Staying updated on legislative changes and regional guidelines demonstrates engagement and responsibility. It is also important to work independently and make decisions based on factual grounds, requiring both integrity and confidence. Finally, the ability to handle stress and prioritize cases, especially during peak application periods, is highly valued.

Key facts about Alcohol Case Officers

• Educational level: Post-secondary education (2–3 years)
• Work environment: Office-based with fieldwork elements
• Typical working hours: Full-time, public sector
• Number of job openings (profession group): 758
• Future outlook: Demand is expected to decrease over five years

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, Alcohol Case Officers can develop into specialist roles within supervision, training, or legal advisory services. Some advance to managerial positions such as unit manager or take responsibility for coordinating larger supervision projects at regional or national levels. Forecasts from the Employment Service for the group "Other case officers" indicate moderate job opportunities, but demand is expected to decline over time due to automation and technological solutions. Employers are mainly within municipalities and government agencies, but also within larger private companies offering consultancy services related to alcohol legislation. The role offers good opportunities for further education and specialization, which can support long-term career development.

Frequently asked questions about Alcohol Case Officers

• What is the average salary of an Alcohol Case Officer?
  - The average salary for an Alcohol Case Officer is 38 900 SEK per month.
• How does the salary difference between men and women look?
  - Men earn an average of 41 500 SEK, women 38 000 SEK, which means women earn 92% of men's salaries.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for an Alcohol Case Officer?
  - The highest salary is 49,300 SEK and the lowest is 34,000 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become an Alcohol Case Officer?
  - Post-secondary education in law, social sciences, or public administration is recommended.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Job opportunities are moderate today, but demand is expected to decrease over the next five years.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries can vary depending on region and employer, but exact levels vary.
• What are the job responsibilities of an Alcohol Case Officer?
  - Main tasks include processing alcohol license applications, supervision, and advisory services.