Assistant, AD

What does an assistant, AD do? – Tasks and work environment

An assistant, AD works closely with art directors in creative environments such as advertising agencies, media houses, and design studios. The role involves assisting in developing visual concepts, layout work, image editing, and producing graphic materials. Tasks often include project coordination, preparing presentations, and managing communication between team members. The work environment is characterized by high pace, tight deadlines, and demands for creative problem-solving, where collaboration and flexibility are essential to meet clients' and employers' expectations.

Salary development over time

The profession of assistant, AD has shown a clear salary increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 38,300 SEK per month, rising the following year to 39100 SEK. In 2024, the average salary has increased further to 41 100 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 7.3% over the period. This development can largely be explained by increased demand for creative services, digitalization in marketing, and a growing need for qualified personnel with both technical and artistic skills. The salary increase has been somewhat higher than inflation, indicating that skills are increasingly valued as tasks become more complex and broad.

Assistant, AD salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 41 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 36,200 SEK/month (female, private sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 45,600 SEK/month (male, private employee, unspecified education)
• Hourly wage: 247 SEK
• Women earn: 40 200 SEK/month (91% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 44,400 SEK/month
• Regional differences: No specific data available

Education and qualifications

To work as an assistant, AD, a relevant education in graphic design, visual communication, or related creative fields is usually required. Many employers demand formal degrees from university or college, but there are also opportunities for individuals with a strong portfolio and experience through internships or self-study to establish themselves in the profession. Besides technical skills in design software, experience in project management and digital production are often advantageous.

• Formal degree: University or college (2–4 years), e.g., graphic design or visual communication
• Certifications: Courses in Adobe Creative Suite and digital production
• Internships: Common during education and often a requirement for employment
• Prerequisites: High school diploma, preferably with an aesthetic focus
• Tips for choosing: A strong portfolio often weighs heavily in recruitment

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for an assistant, AD include wellness allowances, flexible working hours, the possibility of remote work, and access to modern technical equipment and software. Some employers also offer skills development, insurance, and occupational pension as part of the employment package.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an assistant, AD is often high, especially in metropolitan areas where most employers within advertising, media, and design are established. The industry changes rapidly through new technical tools and platforms, which requires continuous skills development. It can be challenging to get an initial job without relevant work experience or an established portfolio. Additionally, workload varies over time, with periods of intense project work followed by quieter phases. Staying updated on trends and new technology is essential to remain attractive in the job market.

Tips for those who want to become an assistant, AD

To succeed as an assistant, AD, it is good to be both creative and meticulous, as details often determine the final result in graphic production. Developing good collaboration skills is an advantage, as the work involves frequent contact with colleagues and clients. Building a strong portfolio during studies and internships provides a clear advantage when applying for the most attractive positions. Flexibility and the ability to handle rapid changes are appreciated by employers, especially in projects with tight deadlines. A genuine interest in digital tools and new technology makes it easier to quickly adopt new working methods. Showing initiative and being solution-oriented can open up more responsibilities. Finally, it is important to continuously seek inspiration and stay updated on industry developments to remain relevant.

Key facts about assistant, AD

• Education level: Usually university or college (2–4 years)
• Work environment: Office-based, often in creative teams
• Typical work form: Full-time with flexible hours
• Demand: 620 job openings in the profession (2024)
• Special skills: Graphic software, digital production

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an assistant, AD, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as art director, graphic designer, or project manager within creative industries. Many choose to specialize in areas like digital design, motion graphics, or UX/UI, broadening career options further. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, there is no specific forecast for the profession due to limited data, but the broad group of interior designers, decorators, and set designers includes about 620 job openings in Sweden. The job market is considered stable for digital creative professions, although competition for the most attractive positions can be fierce. Continued digitalization and increased demand for visual content are expected to benefit the profession in the future.

Frequently asked questions about assistant, AD

• What does an assistant, AD earn?
  - The average salary is 41 100 SEK per month, but there is variation between different employers and regions.
• What education is required to become an assistant, AD?
  - Typically, a degree from university or college in graphic design, but a strong portfolio can also be decisive.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn on average 91% of what men do in the profession, which corresponds to 40 200 SEK compared to 44,400 SEK for men.
• What are the most common tasks for an assistant, AD?
  - Tasks include layout work, image editing, graphic production, and project coordination.
• Are there many job openings for assistant, AD?
  - There are approximately 620 job openings in the profession of interior designers, decorators, and set designers.
• How can you improve your chances of getting a job as an assistant, AD?
  - A strong portfolio, internships, and updated knowledge of digital tools significantly increase your chances.
• What are the common benefits in the profession?
  - Wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and skills development are common benefits.