Archive Assistant

What does an archive assistant do? – Tasks and work environment

An archive assistant works with organizing, registering, and maintaining documents and records in various archive environments. Tasks include receiving, sorting, digitizing materials, providing support to researchers or colleagues seeking information, and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations related to archive management. The work is often carried out in public sector organizations such as authorities, municipalities, libraries, or museums, but larger companies may also require archive assistants. The work environment is usually calm and structured, with both independent tasks and team collaboration.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for archive assistants has increased from 28,400 SEK in 2022 to 28 900 SEK in 2023 and further to 30 000 SEK in 2024. This development represents a total increase of approximately 5.6% over three years. The salary increase is slightly higher than inflation during the period, indicating a stable demand for the profession. Salary levels have been influenced by factors such as digitization of archives and increased requirements for information management. Despite the relatively narrow salary range, the profession remains attractive for those interested in order, structure, and information management. Gender equality within the profession is notable, as women and men earn equally.

Archive Assistant Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 30 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (female/male): 26,800 SEK / 27,900 SEK
• Highest salary (female/male): 32,400 SEK / 31,800 SEK
• Hourly wage: 180 SEK
• Gender differences: No difference – women and men earn equally
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To work as an archive assistant, a high school diploma is usually required, preferably with elements of administration, information, or social sciences. Many employers view post-secondary courses in archive science or information management positively, although they are not always mandatory. Practical experience from archives, libraries, or similar environments is often advantageous and can provide an edge in recruitment.

• High school diploma: Administration, social sciences, or equivalent
• Post-secondary courses: Archive science, information management (not mandatory but meritorious)
• Internship: Experience from archives, libraries, or public organizations is appreciated
• Certifications: Rarely necessary, but some workplaces offer internal training
• Prerequisites: Good computer skills and organizational ability

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for archive assistants include wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and the possibility of remote work depending on the employer. Training support and internal courses are also common, especially within the public sector. Occupational pension schemes and extra vacation days are also frequently offered, particularly for employees in state or municipal organizations.

Competition and challenges

The job market for archive assistants is relatively stable, but competition for permanent positions can be high, especially in the public sector. Digitization has changed the nature of the profession, increasing demands for IT skills and adaptability. A challenge is that tasks can be repetitive and require great accuracy, while the demand for specialized digital archiving skills continues to grow. Limited recruitment in some regions may affect employment opportunities. Flexibility and willingness to further educate oneself are therefore important qualities to meet future requirements.

Tips for those who want to become an archive assistant

To succeed as an archive assistant, it is good to have a strong sense of order and the ability to work systematically, as much of the work involves creating and maintaining order in document management. Being meticulous and attentive to details is a significant asset, especially when registering and digitizing materials. Good teamwork skills facilitate working in teams or assisting colleagues and researchers with information. An interest in digital technology and a desire to learn new systems are important, as more workplaces transition to digital archives. Initiative is appreciated by employers, as many processes can be streamlined through your own suggestions. Additionally, being service-minded and able to handle questions from internal and external contacts professionally is an advantage.

Key facts about Archive Assistants

• Educational level: High school diploma or post-secondary courses
• Work environment: Structured, often within the public sector
• Digitization: Heavy focus on digital archive systems
• Demand: 758 available jobs within the profession
• Gender distribution: Equal, same salary for women and men

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an archive assistant, there are opportunities to further educate oneself and take on roles such as archivist, registrar, or specialist in information management. For those developing their IT skills, pathways toward system administration of digital archives or project management in information governance are also possible. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, no precise forecast is made due to limited data, but the broad profession has 758 available jobs, indicating some demand. The profession is influenced by digitization and changing work methods, making further training and technical competence important for future career opportunities.

Frequently asked questions about Archive Assistant

• What does an Archive Assistant earn?
  - An archive assistant has an average salary of 30 000 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development been for archive assistants?
  - Salaries have increased from 28,400 SEK in 2022 to 30 000 SEK in 2024, which corresponds to approximately 5.6% growth.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - No, women and men earn the same within this profession.
• What education is required to become an archive assistant?
  - Usually, a high school diploma, preferably with administrative elements, and sometimes post-secondary courses in archive science.
• What are the job responsibilities of an archive assistant?
  - Tasks include registering, sorting, digitizing, and maintaining documents, as well as providing information support.
• What is the state of the job market?
  - There are 758 available jobs within the profession, but no exact forecast according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for an archive assistant?
  - The highest salary is 32,400 SEK (female, public sector), and the lowest is 26,800 SEK (female, government sector).