Amanuens, museum

What does an amanuens in a museum do? – Tasks and work environment

An amanuens in a museum often assists the museum's regular staff in areas such as collection care, exhibition work, research, and public activities. Tasks may include cataloging objects, digitizing collections, guiding visitors, and administrative work related to exhibitions and events. The role usually combines practical work with elements of academic research or information processing. The work environment is typically within the museum premises, where high demands are placed on accuracy, responsibility, and the ability to collaborate with colleagues and the public.

Salary development over time

The salary for an amanuens in a museum has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,700 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 37 600 in 2023. The most recent year, 2024, the salary has risen further to 38 900, reflecting a positive development of approximately 6% over the three-year period. This trend mirrors an increased demand for specialized skills in the museum sector, where digitalization and new working methods have contributed to raising the profession's status and salary levels. Salary development can also be explained by many amanuens combining their roles with further education, often resulting in higher salary levels over time.

Amanuens, museum salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 38 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 26,600 SEK/month (female, government sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 47,000 SEK/month (male, government sector, doctoral degree)
• Hourly wage (average): 234 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 38 300 SEK, men 40 100 SEK (women 96% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data varies, but large city regions tend to offer slightly higher salary levels compared to other parts of the country.

Education and qualifications

To work as an amanuens in a museum, it is usually required to be a student at a university or college in a relevant field, such as cultural studies, art history, archaeology, or history. Many employers prefer candidates with museum experience, for example through internships or volunteer work. Good knowledge of information management and digital tools is often advantageous, as well as the ability to communicate in Swedish and English.

• Formal education: Ongoing or completed university studies in a relevant field (at least bachelor's level)
• Internships/experience: Previous internship at a museum or similar institution is highly meritorious
• Prerequisites: Good subject knowledge, especially in history, art, or cultural heritage
• Courses/certificates: Courses in digitization, collection care, or museum education are advantageous
• Language skills: Swedish and English, sometimes other languages depending on the museum's focus

Common benefits and compensations

Amanuens in museums are often covered by collective agreements that include benefits such as holiday pay, pension contributions, and sick pay. Many employers also offer wellness allowances, opportunities for training, and discounted or free admission to the museum's own and sometimes other cultural events. Flexitime and some remote work may be available depending on the nature of the tasks.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an amanuens in museums is often quite high, especially in large city regions and prestigious institutions. The limited number of positions means many applicants combine the role with further studies or other part-time jobs. Challenges also include the varied nature of tasks, which sometimes require quick shifts between practical and administrative work. The increased demand for digital competence also raises the bar for applicants. Despite this, the profession attracts many due to the opportunity to work with cultural heritage and deepen knowledge in personally interesting subjects.

Tips for aspiring museum amanuens

To succeed as an amanuens in a museum, it is good to combine a strong interest in culture and history with a keen eye for detail. Good collaboration skills facilitate work that involves cooperation with colleagues from different departments, while communication skills are crucial for guiding or working with the public. Being flexible and curious makes it easier to adapt to new tasks and quickly absorb new knowledge, especially when digital tools or new methods are introduced. Engagement and independence are often appreciated, as the work can involve periods of personal responsibility for projects or tasks. Finally, being structured and proactive is an advantage, as museum work often involves managing multiple projects simultaneously and actively contributing to the development of the organization.

Key facts about Amanuens, museum

• Education level: University studies at bachelor’s level or higher
• Work environment: Museum premises, often involving both practical and administrative work
• Employment form: Part-time or fixed-term, often alongside studies
• Demand: About 620 available jobs within the occupational group (2024)
• Special skills: Digitalization, collection care, and guiding are advantageous

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an amanuens in a museum, many advance to roles such as museum assistant, curator, or collection manager, often after completing academic studies. Those specializing in digitalization, pedagogy, or exhibition production have good opportunities to progress within the museum sector or move into related fields like archives, libraries, or cultural administration. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, there is no specific forecast for amanuens in museums, but within the group of museum directors and similar roles, about 620 jobs are reported for 2024. Since positions are often temporary and project-based, competition can be high, but experience as an amanuens is a valuable asset for a continued career in the cultural sector.

Frequently asked questions about Amanuens, museum

• What does an Amanuens, museum earn?
  - The average salary is 38 900 SEK per month, with some variation depending on education, experience, and gender.
• What education is required to become an amanuens in a museum?
  - Ongoing or completed university studies in fields such as history, cultural studies, or art history are usually required.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn approximately 96% of what men do within the profession.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The outlook is uncertain, but there are about 620 available jobs within the occupational group according to recent statistics.
• What tasks does an amanuens in a museum perform?
  - Tasks include collection care, exhibition work, guiding visitors, and administrative duties.
• How does the salary vary regionally?
  - Major city regions tend to offer slightly higher salaries compared to other parts of the country.