Payroll clerk

What does a payroll clerk do? – Tasks and work environment

A payroll clerk mainly works with salary administration and related personnel information. The daily work involves managing salary payments, registering absences, vacations, and overtime, as well as ensuring compliance with laws and agreements during salary calculations. The profession demands high accuracy and integrity as sensitive employee information is handled. The work environment is often office-based, with work at a computer and close cooperation with finance and HR departments, sometimes also with external parties such as authorities or trade unions.

Salary development over time

The salary for payroll clerks has shown a steady positive trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 35,800 SEK per month, which increased to 37 900 SEK in 2023, and has now reached 39 000 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to an increase of approximately 9% over three years, with the largest rise between 2022 and 2023. The trend reflects an increased need for qualified salary administration in line with digitalization and more complex regulations. The demand for competent payroll clerks has contributed to raising salary levels, especially in the private sector and for those with longer education. At the same time, the gender pay gap has decreased slightly, although women still earn somewhat less than men within the profession.

Payroll clerk salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 39 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 32,500 SEK (man, municipal sector, high school education)
• Lowest salary (woman): 33,000 SEK
• Highest salary: 46,000 SEK (man, private employee, at least 3 years post-secondary education)
• Highest salary (woman): 42,800 SEK
• Hourly wage (average): 234 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 97% of what men do (men: 40 200 SEK, women: 38 900 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salary levels vary slightly between regions, with higher levels in larger cities and the private sector.

Education and qualifications

To work as a payroll clerk, at least a high school diploma with a focus on economics or administration is usually required. Many employers prefer candidates with post-secondary education, such as vocational college or university courses in payroll, personnel administration, or economics. Practical experience in salary management and knowledge of labor law, collective agreements, and digital payroll systems are highly meritorious. Certifications and specialized courses can enhance employability.

• High school diploma: Economics or administrative focus (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: Vocational college or university, 1–3 years
• Certifications: Courses in payroll, labor law, or personnel administration
• Internship: Highly advantageous with experience from finance or payroll departments
• Digital skills: Experience with modern payroll systems and HR software

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to base salary, benefits such as wellness allowance, subsidized lunches, occupational pension, and remote work options are often offered. Some employers also provide professional development, extra vacation days, or bonuses for special achievements. The extent of benefits varies depending on the employer and sector.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a payroll clerk is relatively low, with significant opportunities for employment both short- and long-term. The Employment Service estimates a paradoxical recruitment situation: despite high demand, it is difficult to find the right competence, while some employees leave the profession or work part-time. Challenges for the profession mainly involve staying updated on changing laws, agreements, and digital systems, as well as working efficiently during periods of high workload, such as during salary payments or year-end closing. The ability to handle stress and work in a structured manner is crucial for long-term success.

Tips for those who want to become a payroll clerk

To succeed as a payroll clerk, it is good to combine accuracy with a strong interest in numbers and regulations. Developing digital skills, such as learning various payroll systems, makes it easier to quickly adapt to the role. Service orientation and communication skills are important as the job involves many contacts with colleagues and external parties. Being flexible and able to handle changes, especially during the implementation of new routines, provides a clear advantage in the job market. Good organizational skills facilitate managing many tasks and deadlines simultaneously. Engagement in staying updated on laws and collective agreements is also central to avoid errors. Finally, discretion and integrity are appreciated, as sensitive information is handled daily.

Key facts about a payroll clerk

• Educational level: At least a high school diploma, often post-secondary education
• Work environment: Office-based, often in finance or HR teams
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment according to the Employment Service
• Typical work arrangement: Full-time, but part-time and consultancy assignments also occur
• Special skills: Payroll systems, labor law, collective agreements

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a payroll clerk, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as payroll manager, HR administrator, or HR specialist. Some choose to specialize in complex areas such as pensions, benefits, or labor law. According to the Employment Service's forecast, the opportunities for employment within the profession are expected to remain large, with unchanged demand over the next five years. The number of available jobs is high, and digitalization creates new skill requirements, providing good career prospects in both private and public sectors. Those who further their education or take on more qualified tasks have particularly good prospects for development in the profession.

Common questions about payroll clerks

• What does a payroll clerk earn?
  - The average salary is 39 000 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What education is required to become a payroll clerk?
  - At least a high school diploma with a focus on economics or administration, preferably supplemented with post-secondary studies or courses in payroll and personnel.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 97% of what men do within the profession.
• What is the job market like for payroll clerks?
  - There are great opportunities for employment, with over 758 job openings according to the latest statistics.
• What tasks does a payroll clerk perform?
  - The work includes salary management, registering absences and benefits, and reporting to authorities and communicating with employees.
• What are the career opportunities?
  - After a few years, there are possibilities to advance to roles such as payroll manager, HR specialist, or other administrative positions.
• What qualities are important for the profession?
  - Accuracy, integrity, good organizational skills, and digital competence are central qualities.