What does a bookkeeper do? – Tasks and work environment
Bookkeepers are responsible for continuously recording, verifying, and compiling an organization's financial transactions. Typical tasks include bookkeeping of income and expenses, handling supplier and customer invoices, and reconciling accounts. The role often involves working with various financial systems and may also include basic payroll administration and VAT reporting. The work environment is generally office-based and characterized by accuracy, organization, and high integrity, especially since bookkeepers often handle sensitive financial information in close collaboration with accountants or auditors.
Salary development over time
The salary for bookkeepers has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 41,200 SEK per month, rising to 43 000 SEK in 2023. The latest figure for 2024 indicates further increase to 44 300 SEK, which represents a total increase of approximately 7.5% over three years. This positive trend can be partly explained by increased demand for qualified financial administrators and a gradual rise in educational levels within the profession. The market is balanced between supply and demand, and salary increases reflect both inflation and a desire to retain competent staff in a competitive sector.
Bookkeeper salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 44 300 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 33,200 SEK/month (male, private employee, pre-secondary education)
- Highest salary: 48,500 SEK/month (male, private employee, post-secondary education 3+ years)
- Hourly wage: 266 SEK
- Women's average salary: 44 000 SEK (equivalent to 97% of men's salary)
- Men's average salary: 45 400 SEK
- Regional differences: Varies depending on location and sector
Education and qualifications
To work as a bookkeeper, a high school education with an economic focus is usually required, but many employers also seek post-secondary courses or training in accounting and bookkeeping. Practical experience and good knowledge of financial systems are often crucial for competing for the most qualified positions. Certifications and further training can provide additional advantages in the job market.
- Formal education: High school economics or post-secondary education (1–3 years) in accounting
- Certifications: Courses in bookkeeping, VAT, and payroll administration
- Internships: Meritorious through trainee programs or internships
- Prerequisites: Good knowledge of mathematics and IT systems
- Online courses: Opportunities for self-study and certification via digital educational platforms
Many bookkeepers have the opportunity to work partly remotely thanks to digital accounting systems and cloud-based tools. This flexibility has become increasingly important, especially in larger companies and consulting firms where workflows are often project-based.
Common benefits and compensation
Bookkeepers are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, and opportunities for professional development. In some cases, flexitime, remote work, and extra vacation days may also be available depending on the employer and sector. Other common benefits include subsidized lunches and insurance coverage.
Competition and challenges
The job market for bookkeepers is characterized by a balance between supply and demand, which means moderate opportunities according to the Swedish Employment Service's forecasts. Challenges mainly involve staying updated on regulations, digital systems, and changing work methods. Automation and digitization of financial processes demand higher technical skills and adaptability. Competition for the most attractive positions can be intense, especially in metropolitan areas and within larger companies or auditing firms. Career advancement opportunities largely depend on education level and experience.
Tips for those who want to become a bookkeeper
To succeed as a bookkeeper, it is good to have a genuine interest in numbers and order. Precision is crucial, as small mistakes can have significant consequences for a company's finances, so developing routines for double-checking work is recommended. Being systematic and structured makes it easier to handle many transactions simultaneously. Good communication skills are also important since the role often involves contact with colleagues and external parties. The ability to quickly familiarize oneself with new financial systems provides an advantage, and flexibility is a valued trait in a changing work environment. Finally, continuous further education is wise, as laws and regulations within accounting change and digital tools evolve.
Key facts about Bookkeeper
- Occupational group: Accounting economists
- Education level: High school economics or post-secondary education
- Work environment: Office-based, often with remote work options
- Demand: Moderate, 758 job openings in Sweden
- Gender equality: Women earn 97% of men's salaries
Career paths and future outlook
After a few years of experience, a bookkeeper can advance to roles such as accounting economist, financial manager, or controller. Larger organizations also offer opportunities to specialize in areas like payroll, VAT, or project accounting. The Swedish Employment Service's forecast indicates that the opportunities for employment for bookkeepers and accounting economists are moderate, with demand expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. The market is balanced, with approximately 758 job openings in the profession, providing stable career prospects for those wishing to develop within finance and administration.
Frequently asked questions about Bookkeeper
- What does a bookkeeper earn?
- The average salary for a bookkeeper is 44 300 SEK per month.
- How big is the difference between men's and women's salaries?
- Women earn an average of 44 000 SEK, which corresponds to 97% of men's average salary of 45 400 SEK.
- What education is required to become a bookkeeper?
- High school education with an economic focus is most common, but post-secondary courses in accounting are advantageous.
- Is remote work possible?
- Yes, many bookkeepers can work from home thanks to digital accounting systems.
- What are the future prospects for bookkeepers?
- The forecast indicates moderate demand and unchanged development over the next five years.
- What career paths are available for bookkeepers?
- Common pathways include advancing to accounting economist, financial manager, or controller.
- What is the highest and lowest salary for bookkeepers?
- The highest salary is 48,500 SEK/month and the lowest is 33,200 SEK/month, depending on education and sector.
