Ordering operator

What does an order operator do? – Tasks and work environment

An order operator primarily works with receiving, handling, and managing orders via phone, email, or digital systems. This may involve registering customer orders, answering questions about products and deliveries, and coordinating with other departments to ensure quick and accurate processing. The work environment is often office-based with an emphasis on phone-based customer contact, requiring good service skills, accuracy, and stress resistance. In some cases, shift work occurs, especially within larger organizations and call centers, where order operators are part of a team working to maintain high availability for customers.

Salary development over time

The salary for order operators has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 27,600 SEK per month. In 2023, the average increased to 29 000 SEK, corresponding to an increase of about 5% compared to the previous year. In 2024, the salary has continued to rise to 29 800 SEK, representing a further increase of approximately 2.8%. This positive salary trend reflects ongoing demand for the role, particularly in the public sector and larger organizations where efficient order management is crucial. Salary levels are also influenced by factors such as experience, employer, and education level. The trend indicates that the profession continues to be valued higher, especially for those demonstrating good service skills and technical competence.

Order operator salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 29 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,700 SEK/month (female, private sector)
• Highest salary: 34,600 SEK/month (male, public sector)
• Hourly wage: 179 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 92% of what men do (men: 31 700 SEK, women: 29200 SEK)
• Regional differences: Not specified

Education and qualifications

To work as an order operator, a high school education is generally required, preferably with a focus on administration, trade, or service. Employers often value previous experience in customer service or telephone work, but it is also common for new hires to receive internal training and orientation. Personal qualities such as service-mindedness, stress resistance, and computer literacy are important for success in the role.

• High school diploma: 3 years, preferably with a focus on trade or administration
• Introductory training: Often on the job, 2–6 weeks
• Certifications: Courses in customer handling, telephone techniques, or IT systems can be advantageous
• Practical experience: Experience from customer service or sales is beneficial
• Prerequisites: Good computer skills, proficiency in Swedish both spoken and written

Common benefits and compensations

Order operators are often offered benefits regulated by collective agreements such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, and subsidized lunch. Opportunities for flexible working hours and paid training are common, especially with larger employers. Some workplaces also offer bonuses linked to performance, overtime pay, and the possibility of remote work.

Competition and challenges

The job market for order operators is relatively stable with good demand, reflected in the number of vacancies. At the same time, challenges include high workload during certain periods, especially during campaigns or seasonal peaks. Digitalization and automation of order flows can affect job content and require operators to quickly adapt to new systems. The ability to handle stress and maintain high service levels even under heavy workload is crucial for success and job satisfaction. Competition for the most attractive positions can be fierce, particularly in metropolitan areas.

Tips for those who want to become an order operator

To succeed as an order operator, it is good to have a genuine interest in service and the ability to communicate clearly with customers and colleagues. Patience helps you handle stressful situations and difficult calls professionally. Being meticulous and organized facilitates managing multiple orders simultaneously and reduces the risk of mistakes. Flexibility is also important as tasks and pace can vary from day to day. Develop your computer skills and learn new order systems quickly, as technical competence is in demand. A positive and solution-oriented attitude is appreciated by both employers and customers, and good teamwork skills make it easier to work in a team. Finally, being curious and eager to learn more about the company's products and processes is an advantage to provide the best possible service.

Key facts about Order Operator

• Education level: High school diploma, often with a focus on administration or trade
• Work environment: Office-based, often in teams with phone contact
• Job market: 758 vacancies in Sweden (2024)
• Common work schedule: Shift or day work, sometimes overtime
• Special skills: Customer handling and IT system familiarity

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an order operator, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as team leader, supervisor in customer service, or specialized administrator. Experience with order management and system work can also lead to positions within logistics, purchasing, or order administration. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, demand remains stable, especially in the public sector and larger companies where digitalization creates a need for operators with technical understanding. Skills development in customer service, IT, and leadership increases the chances for further career advancement and higher salaries in the industry.

Frequently asked questions about Order Operator

• What does an Order Operator earn?
  - An order operator has an average salary of 29 800 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• What education is required to become an order operator?
  - High school education with a focus on administration, trade, or service is recommended, sometimes supplemented with internal training.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 92% of what men do in the profession.
• What is the work environment like for order operators?
  - The work environment is mainly office-based with a lot of phone contact and sometimes shift work.
• What career opportunities are there after a few years in the profession?
  - Opportunities include progressing to team leader, administrator, or working within logistics and purchasing.
• How many job openings are there for order operators?
  - There are approximately 758 vacancies in Sweden.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for order operators?
  - The highest salary is 34,600 SEK (male, public sector), while the lowest is 27,700 SEK (female, private sector).