Au-pair salary

Introduction to the Au-pair Profession

Working as an Au-pair involves living with a host family and helping with childcare and light household chores. This profession offers a unique opportunity to experience another culture, improve language skills, and build international networks. An Au-pair becomes part of the family and often has access to the family's facilities, as well as sometimes receiving pocket money and other benefits.

Salary for an Au-pair

What is the salary for an Au-pair in Sweden? The average Au-pair salary is 23 400 kronor per month. It is interesting to note that there is a slight wage difference between genders; men earn an average of 23 700 kronor while women earn 23 300 kronor. Women earn 98% of men's salary in this profession. For hourly employees, the average hourly wage is 140 kronor, based on 166 working hours per month.

Salary Range for Au-pairs

The salary range for Au-pairs varies depending on experience and education. The highest salary for an Au-pair is 25500 kr, which belongs to a male private service manager with a post-secondary education of 3 years or more. The highest salary for a female in the same profession is 24200 kr. On the other hand, the lowest salary for a female is 21500 kr and for a male is 21600 kr.

Education and Requirements

To become an Au-pair, formal education is usually not required, but it is important to have experience in childcare and a basic understanding of household chores. Many host families prefer Au-pairs who have some form of education or certification in childcare or related areas. Language skills, especially in English or the host country's language, are often a requirement.

Working Conditions and Benefits

As an Au-pair, you usually live with the host family, which means accommodation and meals are often included as part of the compensation. Some host families also offer other benefits such as access to a car, phone, or paid language courses. However, it is important to agree with the host family on working conditions, hours, and responsibilities before starting the employment.

Future Prospects and Competition

The future prospects for Au-pairs are difficult to assess due to limited data and the profession often being part of a broader occupational group. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast for the occupational group "Cleaning and maintenance" which includes Au-pairs, there is no specific assessment for this profession. However, it is important to note that the demand for Au-pairs may vary depending on economic factors and families' childcare needs.

Things to Consider Before Becoming an Au-pair

Before taking the step to become an Au-pair, consider the following:

• Ensure you understand the working conditions and what is expected of you in the role.
• Be aware of cultural differences and be ready to adapt.
• Communicate clearly with the host family about your expectations and needs.
• Be open to learning and developing your skills in childcare and household chores.

In conclusion, the profession of being an Au-pair offers a unique opportunity to combine work with cultural exchange. While the salary may vary depending on experience and education, it is important to also consider the additional benefits and experiences that can be gained. By carefully considering the working conditions and your own expectations, you can ensure a rewarding and enriching experience as an Au-pair.