Archive Chancellery

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

An archivist assistant is responsible for managing, organizing, and preserving documents and archive materials within organizations, authorities, and companies. Tasks include registration, sorting, digitalization of documents, and assisting colleagues and the public in retrieving requested information from the archives. The role often also involves establishing archiving routines, complying with relevant laws and regulations, and working with file management and information governance. The work environment is mainly office-based, characterized by accuracy, structure, and close collaboration with other administrators and archivists.

Salary development over time

The salary for an archivist assistant has shown steady positive growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 28,400 SEK per month, increasing to 28 900 in 2023 and reaching 30 000 in 2024. This development corresponds to a total increase of approximately 5.6% over three years. The trend indicates a stable demand for the profession, especially as digitalization and increased requirements for information management have become more important in both public and private sectors. The salary increase also reflects a certain skills shortage and a growing need for qualified personnel to ensure proper handling of archives and documentation. Gender differences are nonexistent, indicating equal pay for women and men.

Archivist Assistant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 30 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 26,800 SEK (female, public sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 32,400 SEK (female, public sector, post-secondary education < 3 years)
• Hourly wage: 180 SEK
• Gender differences: None – women and men earn equally
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To work as an archivist assistant, a high school diploma is usually required, preferably with an administrative or social science focus. Many employers prefer applicants to have additional courses in archive and information management or experience with administrative work. Practical experience and good computer skills are advantageous, especially regarding digital archive systems.

• High school diploma: Administrative, social science, or economic focus
• Post-secondary courses: Archive and information management (often 1 semester – 2 years)
• Internship: Meritorious through internships or trainee programs
• Computer skills: Experience with archive systems, digitalization, and document management
• Prerequisites: Accuracy, structure, and administrative skills

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for archivist assistants include wellness allowances, flexible working hours, opportunities for remote work, and professional development through internal and external training. Occupational pension and insurance are often standard, especially in the public sector. Some employers also offer subsidized lunches or public transport cards.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an archivist assistant varies between regions and sectors, but the number of job openings within the profession is relatively high, with 758 registered vacancies. A challenge is the increasing digitalization, which requires new skills and adaptability to modern systems and methods. Since the profession often involves handling sensitive or confidential documents, high demands are placed on integrity and accuracy. Limited opportunities for career advancement may exist, especially in smaller organizations, but experience in archive management can open doors to more qualified roles.

Tips for those wanting to become an archivist assistant

To succeed as an archivist assistant, it is good to combine curiosity with a strong sense of order and structure. Being meticulous and patient facilitates sorting and registering large amounts of information, while good collaboration skills make it easier to assist colleagues and handle internal inquiries. It is also important to have a technical understanding of digital systems, as modern archive environments require digital competence. Keeping up to date with laws and regulations regarding information management is crucial, and a willingness to learn new things promotes personal and professional development. Finally, initiative and a service-oriented mindset are valued, as tasks often involve direct contact with both internal and external parties.

Key facts about Archivist Assistant

• Education level: High school diploma, often supplemented with courses in archive management
• Work environment: Office-based, often in the public sector
• Job openings: 758 within the profession of archive and library assistants
• Gender distribution: Equal pay between women and men
• Digital competence: Important for modern tasks

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an archivist assistant, there are good opportunities to advance to more specialized roles, such as archivist or document controller. Those interested in IT and digitalization can further their education in digital information management, increasing chances for more qualified positions and higher salaries. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, no explicit assessment is made for the profession due to limited data, but the large number of job openings indicates stable demand. Working in larger authorities and organizations can also offer opportunities to move into leadership roles within administration or archive operations.

Frequently asked questions about Archivist Assistant

• What does an Archivist Assistant earn?
  - An archivist assistant has an average of 30 000 SEK per month, with minor differences between women and men.
• How has the salary development looked for an Archivist Assistant?
  - The salary has increased from 28,400 SEK in 2022 to 30 000 in 2024, which is just over 5% over three years.
• What education is required to become an Archivist Assistant?
  - A high school diploma with an administrative focus and courses in archive management are recommended.
• Are there differences between men and women in the profession?
  - No, salaries are completely equal between genders.
• What are the most common job duties?
  - Registration, sorting, digitalization, and lending of archive materials, as well as file management.
• How many job openings are there for an Archivist Assistant?
  - There are 758 job openings within the profession of archive and library assistants.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Attention to detail, organizational skills, service-mindedness, and digital competence are especially valued.