Accounting clerk

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

An Accounting Clerk primarily works with recording, verifying, and consolidating financial transactions within a company's accounting system. Typical tasks include managing supplier and customer invoices, ongoing bookkeeping, reconciliations, and basic financial reporting to the finance department. The work environment is often office-based, structured around routines and clear deadlines. Most Accounting Clerks work in teams alongside other finance assistants and accountants, often at small or medium-sized companies, accounting firms, or within the public sector. Precision and systematic work are central qualities in this profession.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for an Accounting Clerk has steadily increased. In 2022, the average salary was 34,200 SEK per month, rising to 35 500 SEK in 2023 and further to 36 400 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 6.4% during this period, with the largest growth between 2022 and 2023. The salary development has been influenced by factors such as increased digitalization, demand for administrative skills, and generally rising salary levels within financial administration. Despite a certain oversupply in the job market, demand for qualified Accounting Clerks has contributed to continued positive salary growth, especially for those with experience and specialized knowledge in accounting systems.

Accounting Clerk salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 36 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 29,400 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, post-secondary education < 3 years)
• Highest salary: 38,000 SEK/month (female, private sector, pre-secondary education)
• Hourly wage (average): 219 SEK
• Women: 36 500 SEK/month (103% of men's salary)
• Men: 35 400 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and employer, but national averages apply as a guideline.

Education and qualifications

To work as an Accounting Clerk, a secondary school education with an economic focus is generally required, often complemented with further education in accounting or finance. Practical experience and good knowledge of financial systems are highly valued by employers. Certifications and shorter courses in accounting can increase employment opportunities, especially in competitive regions. Digital skills and the ability to quickly adapt to new systems are also important qualifications.

• Secondary education: Economics program or equivalent
• Post-secondary courses: Accounting, bookkeeping, or finance (1–2 years)
• Certifications: Examples include certifications from the Swedish Accounting Standards Board or similar
• Internship: Meritorious, often via vocational training or trainee positions
• Digital skills: Experience with financial systems and Excel

Common benefits and compensation

Accounting Clerks are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pensions, wellness allowances, and subsidized lunches. Other common compensations include flexitime, remote work options, and professional development through internal or external training. Some employers also provide bonus programs or extra vacation days depending on the workplace and sector.

Challenges and competition

The job market for Accounting Clerks is characterized nationally by an oversupply of applicants and limited employment opportunities according to the Swedish Employment Service forecast. Over the next five years, demand is expected to decline further, increasing competition for available positions. Digitalization and automation of accounting processes may lead to changing tasks and skill requirements. To strengthen their position in the job market, it is important to stay updated on systems and regulations. Despite these challenges, there are still 758 available jobs within the profession, especially for those with the right education and experience.

Tips for aspiring Accounting Clerks

To succeed as an Accounting Clerk, it is beneficial to develop accuracy and analytical skills, as the work requires precision and attention to detail. Being organized facilitates handling large amounts of data and helps meet deadlines. Good communication skills are also valuable, as collaboration with colleagues and other departments is common. It is recommended to familiarize yourself early with modern accounting software and continuously update your knowledge in finance and accounting. Flexibility helps adapt to changing routines and digital tools, while a willingness to learn new things opens doors for further advancement. Lastly, responsibility is highly valued in this role, especially since tasks often require independence.

Key facts about the Accounting Clerk profession

• Educational level: Secondary or post-secondary education with an economic focus
• Work environment: Office-based, often with fixed routines and deadlines
• Typical employment: Full-time, but part-time and hourly positions are also common
• Demand: National surplus, but 758 available jobs within the profession
• Gender distribution: Women dominate and have slightly higher average salaries than men

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, Accounting Clerks can advance to roles such as accounting economist, finance assistant with specialized responsibilities, or controller, especially if further education and certification are completed. There are also opportunities to work within more advanced areas of financial administration or to move into managerial positions. The Swedish Employment Service's forecast indicates limited job opportunities and a national surplus, with decreased demand over five years. Digitalization and automation are driving change within the profession, making skills development and adaptation to new systems crucial for continued career growth. Despite this, a significant number of jobs remain available, particularly for those who are flexible and experienced with modern IT tools.

Frequently asked questions about Accounting Clerks

• What is the average salary of an Accounting Clerk?
  - An Accounting Clerk has an average salary of 36 400 SEK per month.
• How does the salary differ between women and men?
  - Women earn an average of 36 500 SEK while men earn 35 400 SEK, which means women have 103% of men's salary within the profession.
• What education is required to become an Accounting Clerk?
  - Typically, a secondary school education with an economic focus, preferably supplemented with post-secondary courses or certifications in accounting and finance.
• What is the job market like for Accounting Clerks?
  - The job market is characterized by a national surplus and limited opportunities, but there are still 758 available jobs within the profession.
• What are the typical tasks of an Accounting Clerk?
  - Common tasks include ongoing bookkeeping, invoice management, reconciliations, and simple financial reporting.
• Are there regional differences in salaries?
  - Yes, salaries can vary depending on region and employer, but national averages apply as a guideline.
• What are the most common benefits for Accounting Clerks?
  - Common benefits include collective pension schemes, wellness allowances, flexitime, and opportunities for remote work.