Band Archivist

What does a Bandarkivarie do? – Tasks and work environment

A bandarkivarie works with collecting, preserving, cataloging, and providing access to audio recordings and related documentation. Responsibilities include digitizing older tape recordings, ensuring metadata quality, and managing lending and returns within the archive's framework. The role requires precision and a strong interest in both technical and historical aspects of audio media. The work environment is often calm and office-based, with work in climate-controlled archive facilities focusing on preservation and safe handling of materials.

Salary development over time

The salary of a bandarkivarie has shown stable and positive growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 35,200 SEK per month, increasing to 36 100 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary reached 37 600 SEK. This represents a total increase of approximately 7% over three years. The development reflects an increased demand for specialized archive skills, where digitization and preservation of audio materials have become increasingly important. Despite being a smaller and more niche profession, salary levels have risen as employers value technical expertise and specialized knowledge. Salary increases have been evenly distributed between genders, although women earn slightly less than men on average.

Bandarkivarie salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 37 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,100 SEK/month (male, public sector, upper secondary education)
• Highest salary: 42,500 SEK/month (female, public sector, doctoral education)
• Hourly wage: 226 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 37 400 SEK (98% of men's salary), men earn 38 200 SEK
• Regional differences: Salary variations may occur depending on employer and region, but national averages provide a good guide

Education and qualifications

To work as a bandarkivarie, a university degree in archive science, library and information science, or a related field is usually required. Practical experience with audio media and digital archiving is often advantageous. The profession demands technical understanding of both older and modern audio formats, as well as the ability to work systematically with metadata and documentation.

• Formal degree: Bachelor's degree in archive science, library and information science, or equivalent (3 years)
• Certifications: Courses in digital preservation and audio restoration can be advantageous
• Internship: Experience from archives, libraries, or media companies is strongly recommended
• Prerequisites: Interest in audio technology and good computer skills
• Tips for choice: Focus on areas related to cultural heritage, digitization, or audio media to increase competitiveness

Common benefits and compensations

Bandarkivaries are often covered by collective agreements that include occupational pension, generous vacation policies, and wellness grants. Opportunities for professional development and training in digitization and preservation are common. Some employers also offer flexible working hours and remote work options depending on tasks.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a bandarkivarie can vary depending on region and employer, but generally, job opportunities are considered good. The profession is part of the librarian and archivist group, with many available positions nationwide. At the same time, challenges related to technological development increase, with higher demands for digital skills. The recruitment situation is characterized by a paradox: despite high demand, there are difficulties finding candidates with the right specialized knowledge, and many leave the profession or work part-time. The ability to adapt to new digital tools and methods is crucial for long-term success.

Tips for those who want to become a Bandarkivarie

To succeed as a bandarkivarie, it is good to combine a genuine interest in audio media with an analytical and structured work style. Attention to detail and patience are essential, especially when digitizing and cataloging extensive collections. Technical curiosity facilitates learning new digital tools and methods, which is important as archive work modernizes. The ability to collaborate and communicate effectively, both internally and externally, opens opportunities to contribute to projects and collaborations. Showing engagement for cultural heritage and understanding the importance of preservation provides extra motivation in daily work. Finally, being flexible and solution-oriented is an advantage, as tasks can vary depending on projects and technical conditions.

Key facts about a Bandarkivarie

• Educational level: Bachelor's degree in archive science or library and information science
• Work environment: Office and archive environment with digital and analog tasks
• Demand: Large opportunities for work nationwide
• Available jobs: 620 within the librarian and archivist profession
• Special knowledge: Digitization and preservation of audio media

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a bandarkivarie can advance to leading roles such as archive manager, digitization coordinator, or project leader within the cultural heritage sector. Opportunities also exist to specialize in digital preservation or technical restoration of audio materials. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, the job market is expected to remain stable, with many opportunities and unchanged demand over the next five years. Despite recruitment challenges within the profession, there is a continuous need for qualified bandarkivaries. Technological development and increasing digitization mean that the demand for specialists in the field is expected to persist.

Frequently asked questions about a Bandarkivarie

• What does a Bandarkivarie earn?
  - The average salary is 37 600 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and education.
• What education is required to become a Bandarkivarie?
  - Usually a bachelor's degree in archive science, library and information science, or similar.
• Are there many jobs as a Bandarkivarie?
  - Yes, there are 620 available jobs within the librarian and archivist profession.
• How has the salary development looked for a Bandarkivarie?
  - Salaries have increased by about 7% over the past three years.
• What personal qualities are important in the profession?
  - Accuracy, technical interest, and teamwork skills are especially valuable.
• What does a Bandarkivarie do in their daily work?
  - Tasks include collecting, digitizing, cataloging, and preserving audio recordings.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn on average 98% of what men do in the profession.