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What does a bank teller do? – Tasks and work environment

A bank teller primarily works with customer service and financial transactions at bank branches. Tasks include receiving deposits, handling withdrawals, assisting customers with payments, and answering questions about accounts, loans, and other banking services. The bank teller is also responsible for verifying customer identification, informing about bank products, and ensuring security and confidentiality procedures are followed. The work environment is often office-based with fixed working hours, but the pace can be high during busy periods. Precision and service skills are central to the profession, as the work involves daily contact with customers and handling sensitive financial information.

Salary development over time

The salary for bank tellers has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 42,500 SEK per month, which increased to 44 200 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary was 47 400 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 11.5% over the period. This positive change reflects both increased demand for skills in the banking sector and general salary adjustments to meet inflation and market demands. Differences in education level and experience also affect salary levels, as does banks’ investments in digitalization and service quality. Despite technological changes, the need for knowledgeable bank tellers remains, contributing to stable salary development in the profession.

Bank teller salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 47 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 40,700 SEK/month (female, private sector, education shorter than 3 years)
• Highest salary: 59,900 SEK/month (male, private sector, education 3 years or more)
• Hourly wage: 285 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 52 800 SEK, women 43 600 SEK (women earn 83% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on the location and size of the bank, but the national average is 47 400 SEK/month

Education and qualifications

To work as a bank teller, a high school diploma with a focus on economics or administration is usually required, but many employers prefer candidates with post-secondary education in economics, banking, or finance. Practical experience from customer service, cash handling, or similar roles is often advantageous. Employers may also offer internal training and trainee programs to ensure the right skills. Good computer skills and the ability to handle digital tools are important, as much of the work is done in banking systems and via digital channels.

• High school diploma: Economics or commerce programs
• Post-secondary studies: Economics, banking, or finance (1–3 years)
• Internal training: Introductory programs and ongoing professional development within banking
• Internship/Trainee: Meritorious for employment
• Experience: Customer service, cash handling, or administration
• Computer skills: Necessary for working in banking systems

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to base salary, bank tellers often receive benefits such as wellness allowances, pension contributions, subsidized health insurance, and opportunities for professional development through internal training. Some banks may also offer bonuses linked to performance, lunch benefits, and employee discounts on bank products and services. Working hours are usually fixed, and the work environment is characterized by clear routines and good occupational standards.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a bank teller is moderate, and the recruitment situation is expected to be balanced according to the Swedish Public Employment Service forecasts. Digitalization and automation of banking services have changed the role and reduced the number of traditional teller positions, which increases demands for flexibility and digital skills. Customer demands for quick and personalized service remain, making social skills and adaptability important qualities. For those wishing to develop within the banking sector, staying updated on new products and regulations can be challenging, while competition for the most attractive positions is evident. Changes in banks’ structures and service offerings also influence the future of the profession.

Tips for aspiring bank tellers

To succeed as a bank teller, it’s good to combine accuracy with a strong sense of service. Being communicative and attentive helps build trust with customers, while the ability to quickly learn new routines and systems is crucial in a changing industry. Patience and stress resilience during busy periods are appreciated by employers. It’s also advantageous to be solution-oriented, as unexpected situations often arise in customer interactions. Actively developing digital competence and staying informed about bank products provides an edge. Finally, being helpful and cooperative contributes to a positive work environment and an efficient team.

Key facts about Bank Teller

• Education level: High school diploma, often supplemented with economics education
• Work environment: Office-based, customer-focused, routine-oriented
• Typical work arrangement: Full-time, fixed hours
• Demand: 550 available jobs nationwide (2024)
• Special skills: Digital competence and customer service

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years as a bank teller, opportunities open to advance to roles such as private advisor, customer manager, or team leader within the bank branch. Further education or experience can also lead to positions in credit assessment, sales of banking products, or specialized roles within risk and compliance. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service forecasts, the job market for banking professionals is expected to be balanced over the next five years, with moderate opportunities and unchanged demand. Digitalization and changing customer behaviors may affect the number of positions, but the need for qualified personnel for customer meetings and advice remains. Development opportunities are particularly good for those who combine experience with further education in economics or finance.

Frequently asked questions about Bank Teller

• What does a bank teller earn?
  - A bank teller has an average salary of 47 400 SEK per month, but the salary varies depending on experience, education, gender, and region.
• How do you become a bank teller?
  - The most common route is a high school diploma with a focus on economics or commerce, sometimes followed by post-secondary studies and internships.
• Are there opportunities for further education?
  - Yes, many banks offer internal training, and there are university programs in economics and finance for those who want to advance.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Customer service skills, accuracy, stress tolerance, and good digital competence are central qualities for bank tellers.
• What is the job market like?
  - The job market is balanced with approximately 550 available jobs nationwide, with a forecast of unchanged demand over the next five years.
• What are the biggest salary gaps?
  - Men earn an average of 52 800 SEK, while women earn 43 600 SEK, meaning women earn 83% of men's salaries in the profession.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a bank teller?
  - The highest salary is 59,900 SEK (male, private sector, education of at least 3 years), the lowest is 40,700 SEK (female, private sector, education shorter than 3 years).