Budget Assistant

What does a Budget Assistant do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Budget Assistant supports the finance department in budget processes, follow-ups, and financial administration. Common tasks include compiling budget data, analyzing costs, participating in closing work, and handling invoices and account entries. The role requires accuracy, good analytical skills, and familiarity with financial systems. Budget Assistants can be found in both private and public organizations, often working in an office environment with collaboration and periods of high workload during financial closing and budget planning.

Salary Development Over Time

The salary for a Budget Assistant has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 34,200 SEK, followed by 35 500 SEK in 2023 and 36 400 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 6.4% over three years, with a somewhat larger raise between 2022 and 2023. Salaries have been influenced by increased demand for financial skills, inflation, and the general salary level in administrative professions. Despite this positive trend, forecasts suggest that salary growth may slow as demand for finance assistants decreases.

Budget Assistant Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 36 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 29,400 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, post-secondary education less than 3 years)
• Highest salary: 38,000 SEK/month (female, private sector, pre-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 219 SEK
• Women earn: 36 500 SEK (103% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 35 400 SEK
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on location and sector, but larger variations are mainly seen between different employers rather than regions.

Education and Qualifications

To work as a Budget Assistant, a high school diploma with an economic focus is usually required, supplemented by post-secondary courses or practical experience in the field. Many employers also value experience with financial systems and strong Excel skills. There are opportunities to further educate oneself within the profession to increase competitiveness.

• High school diploma: Economics program or equivalent
• Post-secondary courses: Economics, accounting (1–2 years)
• Internship: Practical experience in a finance department is appreciated
• IT skills: Familiarity with financial systems and advanced Excel
• Certifications: Meritorious but rarely required

Common Benefits and Perks

Budget Assistants are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, remote work options, and opportunities for skills development. Occupational pension, insurance, and subsidized lunches are also common, especially within larger organizations and the public sector.

Competition and Challenges

The job market for Budget Assistants is characterized by a surplus of labor, making competition for positions relatively high. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast for finance assistants, demand is expected to decrease over the next five years. Digitalization and automation of financial administration have led to more efficient processes, potentially reducing the need for traditional assistant roles. To improve chances on the job market, it is important to stay updated on new systems and processes and to develop analytical and communication skills.

Tips for Aspiring Budget Assistants

To succeed as a Budget Assistant, it’s beneficial to combine accuracy with strong analytical skills, as the work often involves detailed review of figures and reports. Showing initiative and being receptive to changes in financial processes provides an advantage in a competitive industry. Building good knowledge of financial systems and Excel is recommended, as these are central tools in daily work. Good collaboration skills and clear communication are also valuable, especially when working with different departments. Actively seeking internships or part-time jobs in finance provides valuable work experience and networks. Being flexible and adaptable during busy periods is helpful. Finally, continuous education in finance and administration strengthens your position in the job market.

Key Facts About Budget Assistant

• Education level: High school diploma, often supplemented with post-secondary courses
• Work environment: Office-based, often in teams
• Job market: Limited opportunities, surplus according to the Swedish Public Employment Service
• Typical work arrangement: Full-time, daytime
• Number of job openings: 758 within the finance assistant profession

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After a few years of experience, a Budget Assistant can advance to roles such as financial administrator, accountant, or controller. The broad insight into financial flows enables growth within the organization or a move to more qualified positions within finance and administration. However, according to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, demand for finance assistants is expected to decline over the next five years, making further education and specialization increasingly important for career development. Digital skills and experience with advanced financial systems will also be more in demand.

Frequently Asked Questions About Budget Assistant

• What is the average salary of a Budget Assistant?
  - A Budget Assistant has an average salary of 36 400 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn on average 36 500 SEK while men earn 35 400 SEK.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a Budget Assistant?
  - The highest salary is 38,000 SEK and the lowest 29,400 SEK, depending on gender, sector, and education level.
• What education is required to become a Budget Assistant?
  - High school diploma with an economic focus and preferably post-secondary courses or experience in the field.
• What are the future prospects for Budget Assistants?
  - The prognosis indicates limited job opportunities and a surplus of labor, with decreased demand over the next five years.
• What benefits are common for Budget Assistants?
  - Benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and occupational pensions are often offered.
• How many job openings are available in this profession?
  - There are 758 job openings in the finance assistant field.