Development Aid Officer, SIDA

What does a Biståndshandläggare at SIDA do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Biståndshandläggare at SIDA works on investigating, planning, and following up on international aid projects. Tasks include analyzing needs, evaluating project proposals, writing reports, and ensuring that aid funds are used efficiently and legally. The work is often done in close collaboration with colleagues within SIDA, other authorities, international organizations, and local partners in recipient countries. The work environment is usually office-based but may occasionally involve travel to project countries for follow-up and on-site collaboration. The role requires strong analytical skills, good communication abilities, and an understanding of both Swedish and international regulations.

Salary development over time

The salary for a Biståndshandläggare at SIDA has shown a steady upward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,200 SEK per month, increasing to 44 700 SEK in 2023 and further to 46 500 SEK in 2024. This represents a total salary increase of approximately 7.6% during the period. The development reflects continued demand for qualified personnel in the aid sector and an increased need for expertise in international development work. The salary increase can also be linked to general state salary adjustments and a growing focus on sustainable and effective aid efforts. Gender differences remain, with women earning 93% of men's salaries in the profession.

Biståndshandläggare at SIDA salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 46 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,200 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 60,200 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 280 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 93% of what men do (men: 48 800 SEK, women: 45 300 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salary variations occur, especially between the government and municipal sectors, and depending on education level

Education and Qualifications

To work as a Biståndshandläggare at SIDA, a university degree in social sciences, economics, political science, or related fields is usually required. Many employers also value experience from international work and good language skills. Internships in development cooperation and international organizations can provide a significant advantage in the job market.

• Academic degree: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in social sciences, political science, or economics (3–5 years)
• Language skills: Very good English, additional languages often advantageous
• Experience in international work: Internships or employment within aid, NGOs, or international organizations
• Courses and certifications: Training in project management and aid administration
• Personal qualities: Analytical ability, teamwork skills, and intercultural competence

Common Benefits and Allowances

Biståndshandläggare at SIDA often have benefits covered by state collective agreements, such as occupational pension, generous vacation, flexible hours, and the possibility of remote work. Other common allowances include wellness contributions, professional development, and sometimes per diems for travel, especially during longer international assignments.

Competition and Challenges

The profession of Biståndshandläggare within SIDA is characterized by moderate competition, with a recruitment situation nationally that is balanced. The Employment Service forecasts that demand for planners and investigators, including Biståndshandläggare, will remain unchanged over the next five years. Challenges in the role can include high demands for flexibility, rapid changes in global conditions, and the need to handle complex regulations and political priorities. The number of job openings in the field is relatively large, but competition for the most attractive positions can be fierce, especially at the headquarters in Stockholm.

Tips for those wanting to become a Biståndshandläggare at SIDA

To succeed as a Biståndshandläggare at SIDA, it is good to develop strong analytical skills and work systematically with large amounts of information. An active interest in global issues and international cooperation is helpful, as is building networks through internships and volunteer work in the aid sector. Good communication skills, both oral and written, are essential for collaborating with actors from different countries and organizations. Initiative and independence are important qualities, especially in projects where tasks can change quickly. Being attentive and having intercultural competence helps in working with different cultures and stakeholders. Finally, staying updated on global trends and development policy issues is an advantage to contribute relevant perspectives to the work.

Key Facts about Biståndshandläggare at SIDA

• Education level: Bachelor’s or master’s degree, often in social sciences
• Work environment: Office-based with international travel elements
• Typical employment: Full-time, government employment
• Demand: Moderate, approximately 758 job openings within the profession
• Special skills: Project management and international collaboration

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years as a Biståndshandläggare at SIDA, there are good opportunities to advance to more senior roles, such as project manager, subject expert, or head of aid programs. Many also choose to work within international organizations like the UN or EU, or to become consultants in development cooperation. According to the Employment Service’s forecast for planners and investigators, the job prospects are moderate, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Skills in project management, evaluation, and intercultural communication are especially sought after for those wishing to broaden their work options or move into more specialized roles.

Frequently Asked Questions about Biståndshandläggare at SIDA

• What does a Biståndshandläggare at SIDA earn?
  - The average salary is 46 500 SEK/month, but it varies depending on experience, education, and employer.
• How do salary differences between men and women look?
  - Men earn an average of 48 800 SEK and women 45 300 SEK, which means women earn 93% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a Biståndshandläggare at SIDA?
  - A university degree in social sciences, political science, or economics is most common, often supplemented with experience from international work.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The Employment Service assesses that job prospects are moderate and demand will remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries within the profession?
  - The highest salary is 60,200 SEK and the lowest 30,200 SEK. Differences depend on education, sector, and experience.
• What benefits are common for Biståndshandläggare?
  - Benefits include occupational pension, flexible hours, wellness allowance, and remote work options.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Some variation exists, especially between the government and municipal sectors, and depending on education level.