Work instructor, prison care

What does an employment instructor in the correctional service do? – Tasks and work environment

An employment instructor in the correctional service is responsible for leading and supervising inmates in various work tasks within prisons or detention centers. The work includes practical guidance, planning work activities, and ensuring compliance with regulations and safety routines. The work environment is characterized by high safety requirements, clear routines, and daily contact with inmates, where pedagogical skills and a calm demeanor are central qualities. Often, the work takes place in workshops, kitchens, or other production environments within correctional facilities, focusing on creating meaningful employment and contributing to the inmates' reintegration into society.

Salary development over time

The salary development for employment instructors within the correctional service has shown a stable and positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 29,300 SEK per month, which then increased to 30 300 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary continued to rise and is now at 33 300 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 14% over three years. This development reflects an increased focus on the correctional service's vital societal role and a somewhat higher demand for qualified personnel. The salary increase can also be explained by a general salary adjustment within the profession and efforts to attract and retain competent employment instructors in a challenging work environment.

Employment instructor in the correctional service salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 33 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,400 SEK
• Highest salary: 34,700 SEK
• Hourly wage (average): 200 SEK
• Women's average salary: 32 900 SEK
• Men's average salary: 33 700 SEK
• Women earn: 98% of what men do
• Regional differences: Data missing

Education and qualifications

To work as an employment instructor in the correctional service, a high school diploma is usually required, preferably with a practical or pedagogical focus, along with experience in work management or instruction. The correctional service often offers internal training and introductory programs for new employees. Personal qualities such as pedagogical ability, stress resilience, and safety awareness are highly valued during recruitment.

• High school education: Practical or pedagogical focus recommended
• Internal training: Included in the correctional service's introduction programs
• Experience: Work management, teaching, or similar merits
• Certifications: Safety training and occupational health courses may be included
• Personal qualities: Pedagogical ability, patience, responsibility

Common benefits and compensations

Employment instructors in the correctional service are often covered by collective agreements that provide access to occupational pension, wellness contributions, subsidized lunches, and extra vacation days. Other common benefits include compensation for unsociable working hours, opportunities for skills development, and access to work clothing and protective equipment.

Competition and challenges

The job market for employment instructors within the correctional service is relatively stable, but the profession demands high personal maturity and the ability to handle pressured situations. Since the workplace is a security-classified environment, good cooperation skills and a professional attitude are required. Challenges often involve motivating inmates with diverse backgrounds, while the work environment can be mentally demanding. The number of available positions in the profession is relatively large, but competition for the most attractive positions can be tough depending on the region and experience level.

Tips for those who want to become an employment instructor in the correctional service

To succeed as an employment instructor in the correctional service, it is good to have strong pedagogical skills and be able to adapt communication to different individuals. Remaining calm and resilient under pressure, showing empathy, and maintaining clear boundaries are important. Experience in work management or supervision is also advantageous, as the role involves motivating and inspiring others. Safety awareness and meticulousness are crucial, especially in an environment where routines and rules must be strictly followed. Being flexible and solution-oriented helps in unforeseen situations, and good cooperation skills facilitate teamwork with colleagues and inmates.

Key facts about employment instructors in the correctional service

• Profession: Correctional officer
• Average salary: 33 300 SEK/month
• Work environment: Security-classified prison or detention center
• Typical work form: Full-time and daytime, shift work may occur
• Job openings within the profession: 191

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an employment instructor in the correctional service, there are opportunities to advance to team leader, supervisor, or specialized roles within occupational health and safety. Some choose to further their education to become correctional officers with specific responsibilities or trainers in new employee training. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, no exact assessment is made for the employment instructor role, but there is a stable number of job openings within the correctional officer profession. As the profession is socially important and the correctional service is continuously developing, the future outlook is considered good for those with the right qualifications and personal suitability.

Frequently asked questions about employment instructors in the correctional service

• What does an employment instructor in the correctional service earn?
  - The average salary is 33 300 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 32 900 SEK and men 33 700 SEK, which means women earn 98% of men's salary.
• What education is required to become an employment instructor in the correctional service?
  - High school education with practical or pedagogical focus and internal training are usually required.
• What are the job responsibilities of an employment instructor in the correctional service?
  - Supervising inmates in work tasks, planning and ensuring safety, and contributing to societal reintegration.
• What is the job market like for employment instructors in the correctional service?
  - There are 191 job openings, but no precise forecast on competition.
• What is the highest and lowest salary in the profession?
  - The highest salary is 34,700 SEK, and the lowest is 30,400 SEK.
• What personal qualities are important in the profession?
  - Pedagogical ability, stress resilience, safety awareness, and good cooperation skills are essential.