Embassy Secretary

What does an embassy secretary do? – Tasks and work environment

An embassy secretary works to promote Sweden's interests abroad through diplomatic and administrative tasks at a Swedish embassy or mission. The duties include analyzing political and economic conditions in the host country, reporting to the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, handling consular affairs, and participating in international negotiations. The work is often in an international environment with a fast pace, where collaboration with colleagues from different countries and cultures is a natural part of everyday life. The position also involves representing Sweden at official events and being an important contact point for both Swedish and foreign citizens.

Salary development over time

The salary for embassy secretaries has shown a steady upward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,200 SEK per month, increasing to 44 700 SEK in 2023. For 2024, the average salary is 46 500 SEK, which represents an increase of approximately 7.6% over the three-year period. This development reflects a continued high demand for qualified diplomatic services and adjustments to meet rising living costs and competition for talent within the public sector. The salary increase has been somewhat stronger than the average salary growth for government employees, possibly due to increased demands for education, experience, and language skills within the profession.

Embassy secretary salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 46 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,200 SEK/month (female, public sector, less than 9 years of education)
• Highest salary: 60,200 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, doctoral degree)
• Hourly wage (average): 280 SEK/hour
• Women's average salary: 45 300 SEK/month
• Men's average salary: 48 800 SEK/month
• Women earn: 93% of what men do

Education and qualifications

To work as an embassy secretary, a university degree in fields such as political science, law, economics, or international relations is usually required, followed by participation in the Ministry for Foreign Affairs' diplomatic program. In addition to formal education, language skills, analytical ability, and international experience are highly valued. Practical experience from international work or internships at an embassy can be advantageous.

• Academic degree: Political science, law, or economics (at least 3–5 years)
• Participation in the MFA's diplomatic program: 1–2 years
• Language skills: English required, additional languages are advantageous
• Internships or trainee positions: Often beneficial
• International experience: Studies or work abroad is a plus

Common benefits and allowances

Embassy secretaries are often offered benefits such as official residence abroad, subsidized travel, extra vacation days, and insurance during international service. When posted abroad, allowances for schooling for accompanying children and compensation for living costs in the host country may also be included.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an embassy secretary is fierce, as the number of places in the MFA's diplomatic program is limited and the application volume is high. In addition to academic merits, international experience, language skills, and analytical ability are often required. The profession also involves challenges such as adapting to new environments, sometimes under difficult security conditions, and a high work pace. Balancing work and private life can be difficult, especially during long postings abroad. Despite this, the profession attracts many with an interest in international issues and societal impact.

Tips for aspiring embassy secretaries

To succeed as an embassy secretary, it is beneficial to combine a strong interest in society with good language skills and analytical abilities. Flexibility and adaptability are crucial, as the role often involves working in different countries and cultures. A structured approach helps manage complex issues and many tasks simultaneously. Building networks, both nationally and internationally, increases opportunities for career development. Engagement in international organizations or volunteer projects provides valuable experience and strengthens applications for the diplomatic program. The ability to collaborate and exercise good judgment are important qualities, especially in stressful situations. Finally, early internships or trainee positions at the MFA or foreign embassies are recommended to gain insight into the profession.

Key facts about embassy secretaries

• Education level: Academic degree and diplomatic program
• Work environment: International and varied
• Work form: Full-time, often with international postings
• Demand: Moderate, approximately 758 available positions within the profession
• Special skills: Languages, analysis, international experience

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years as an embassy secretary, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as embassy counselor, administrative officer, or department head within the MFA. For those seeking an international career, opportunities also exist to work at EU institutions or international organizations. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, opportunities for employment in the profession as planners and investigators are moderate, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. This indicates that competition for positions will continue to be balanced without major changes in the labor market. Those with the right combination of education, experience, and language skills have good prospects for establishing themselves and building a career in diplomacy.

Frequently asked questions about embassy secretaries

• What does an embassy secretary earn?
  - An embassy secretary has an average salary of 46 500 SEK per month. The salary varies depending on experience, education, and placement.
• What education is required to become an embassy secretary?
  - An academic degree in fields such as political science, law, or economics, along with participation in the MFA's diplomatic program, is required.
• Are there gender differences in salary for embassy secretaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 93% of what men do within the profession.
• What is the job market like for embassy secretaries?
  - The job market is characterized by balance with about 758 available positions within the profession.
• What benefits are usually included in the position?
  - Common benefits include official residence abroad, insurance, extra vacation days, and allowances during international service.
• What are the career paths after a few years in the profession?
  - After some years, embassy secretaries can advance to roles such as embassy counselor, administrative officer, or work within international organizations.
• How high are the highest and lowest salaries for embassy secretaries?
  - The highest salary is 60,200 SEK and the lowest is 30,200 SEK, depending on education, experience, and sector.