Accounting Assistant

What does an Accounting Assistant do? – Tasks and Work Environment

Accounting assistants primarily handle and record a company's financial transactions, such as invoicing, ongoing bookkeeping, and reconciliations. The work often includes assisting with monthly and annual financial statements, managing accounts payable and receivable, and supporting finance managers with various administrative tasks. The work environment is office-based and characterized by a structured approach, where accuracy and responsibility are key traits. In smaller companies, the role is often broader, while larger organizations may have more specialized tasks for accounting assistants.

Salary Development Over Time

Over the past three years, the salary for accounting assistants has shown a steady increase. In 2022, the average salary was 34,200 SEK per month, which increased to 35 500 SEK in 2023, and reached 36 400 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a salary increase of approximately 6.4% over the three-year period. The trend can partly be explained by an increased need for financial expertise as companies' accounting requirements grow, but inflation and collective bargaining have also influenced salary development. Despite this positive trend, forecasts indicate that demand for accounting assistants may decrease in the future, potentially affecting future salary trends.

Accounting Assistant Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 36 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 29,400 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, post-secondary education shorter than 3 years)
• Highest salary: 38,000 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, pre-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 219 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 103% of what men do (women: 36 500 SEK, men: 35 400 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary between urban and rural areas, but no specific statistics are available for this profession.

Education and Qualifications

To work as an accounting assistant, a high school diploma with a focus on economics is usually required, but post-secondary courses and practical experience are advantageous. Many employers value relevant work experience and good knowledge of accounting software and Excel. It is also common to supplement with courses in accounting or finance to further strengthen skills.

• High school diploma: Economics program or similar (3 years)
• Post-secondary courses: Accounting, bookkeeping, business economics (1–2 years, vocational college / folk high school)
• Certifications: Courses in bookkeeping, accounting, or payroll systems
• Internship: Internship or trainee position in an finance department provides valuable experience
• Prerequisites: Good computer skills and mathematical abilities
• Tips: Combining studies with part-time work in administration provides a competitive edge

Common Benefits and Compensation

Accounting assistants are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, subsidized lunches, occupational pension, and flexible working hours. In some cases, employee discounts, extra vacation days, and skills development are included in employment conditions. The extent of benefits varies between employers and sectors.

Competition and Challenges

The competition for positions as an accounting assistant is relatively high, as there is a surplus of trained professionals in the field. National forecasts show that the job market for finance assistants is expected to decline within five years, which may lead to fewer new hires and increased requirements for experience and specialization. Digitalization and automation of accounting processes also demand that professionals continuously develop their technical skills. At the same time, the role provides a stable foundation for further development within finance and accounting. Those who are flexible, meticulous, and willing to continue their education have good opportunities to meet future requirements.

Tips for Aspiring Accounting Assistants

To succeed as an accounting assistant, it is good to combine accuracy with an interest in numbers and structure. Being solution-oriented and able to quickly adapt to new tasks increases the chances of being appreciated at work. It is also valuable to develop communication skills, as collaboration with colleagues and clients is an important part of daily work. Taking initiative and demonstrating responsibility when handling sensitive information builds trust with employers. For those who want to stand out in the job market, regularly updating knowledge of digital bookkeeping and accounting systems is recommended. Good organizational skills help manage periods of high workload, and a strong interest in finance provides long-term motivation in the profession.

Key Facts about an Accounting Assistant

• Education level: High school economics or post-secondary courses
• Work environment: Office-based, often in teams
• Demand: Limited opportunities, surplus of workforce
• Typical working hours: Full-time, daytime
• Digital skills: Basic IT and system knowledge required

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After a few years of experience, accounting assistants can advance to more qualified roles such as accounting economist, payroll administrator, or finance manager. It is also common to further qualify as an authorized accountant or controller. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast for finance assistants, the job market nationally is characterized by a surplus and limited opportunities for new employment over the next five years. Despite this, there are still available positions, especially in larger cities and within the private sector, where recent reports indicate 758 job openings in the field. Digitalization and increased automation requirements influence future prospects, making ongoing skills development particularly important.

Frequently Asked Questions about an Accounting Assistant

• What is the average salary of an Accounting Assistant?
  - An accounting assistant has an average salary of 36 400 SEK per month.
• What is the hourly wage for an Accounting Assistant?
  - The hourly wage is on average 219 SEK.
• Are there differences between men and women in the profession?
  - Women earn on average 103% of what men do; women 36 500 SEK and men 35 400 SEK.
• What education is required to become an Accounting Assistant?
  - Typically, a high school diploma with a focus on economics, but post-secondary courses and experience are advantageous.
• What is the job market outlook for Accounting Assistants?
  - There is a surplus of workforce, and demand is expected to decrease over the coming years.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for an Accounting Assistant?
  - The highest salary is 38,000 SEK per month, and the lowest is 29,400 SEK per month, depending on sector and education.
• What career opportunities are available after a few years?
  - It is common to advance to roles such as accounting economist or payroll administrator.