Detective

What does a Detective do? – Tasks and Work Environment

The detective profession is characterized by varied and often challenging work content, where investigation, information gathering, and analysis are central. Tasks include collecting and processing facts, conducting interviews, surveillance, and sometimes fieldwork to clarify circumstances in cases such as criminal investigations or internal inquiries within companies. The work can be performed independently or in teams, depending on the nature of the assignment. The environment varies between offices, public places, and sometimes outdoors, requiring flexibility and adaptability. Irregular working hours occur, especially during time-critical investigations or surveillance assignments.

Salary development over time

The salary for a Detective has shown steady and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,700 SEK, which increased to 32 400 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 34 500 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 12.4% over the three-year period. This salary development reflects increased demand for specialized skills within surveillance and security sectors, as well as generally rising salary levels in the security industry. The clear trend towards higher educational and experience requirements has also contributed to raising salaries, especially for Detectives with post-secondary education and specialization.

Detective salary – a complete overview

• Average salary: 34 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,200 SEK/month (male, public sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 47,100 SEK/month (male, public sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage: 207 SEK
• Women: 32 900 SEK/month
• Men: 35 400 SEK/month
• Women earn: 93% of what men do
• Regional differences: Salary levels vary slightly, with higher averages in metropolitan regions where demand is greater

Education and qualifications

To work as a Detective, a combination of relevant education and practical experience is usually required. Many have backgrounds in law enforcement, security, or law, but there are also private training programs and courses focused on investigation work. Certain roles require specific certifications or licenses, and employers may set requirements for a certain length of education depending on the complexity of the assignment.

• Post-secondary education: 1–3 years in security, law, or criminology is common
• Specialized courses: In surveillance, investigative methods, and IT forensics
• Internships or trainee programs: Provide valuable experience and networks
• Certifications: For example, authorization for security personnel
• Prerequisites: Approved background check and sometimes driver’s license
• Self-study: Possible via online courses in investigation and security
• Tips for choosing: Select education with practical components to increase employability

Common benefits and compensations

Detectives often have access to collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, and insurance. Extra compensation may occur for unsociable hours, on-call duties, or special assignments. Larger companies or public sector employers may also offer skills development, subsidized lunches, and flexible working hours.

Competition and challenges

The Detective profession has become increasingly competitive as both private and public sectors have intensified their focus on security work. The number of job openings in the field remains relatively stable, but requirements for education and experience have increased. Digitalization and technological tools mean that modern Detectives need to master both traditional and digital methods, which can be a challenge for those lacking technical skills. The profession also demands high integrity, stress resilience, and the ability to handle ethical dilemmas. Keeping up to date with laws and regulations is crucial to succeed in the role.

Tips for those who want to become Detectives

To succeed as a Detective, it is good to develop your analytical skills early on and practice critical thinking, as the profession often requires processing and evaluating large amounts of information quickly. Being meticulous and methodical helps in investigations where details can be crucial. Persistence and patience are qualities that facilitate long-term surveillance or complex cases. Good communication skills are important for collaborating with colleagues and building trust with clients or interviewees. A certain interest in technology is advantageous, as digital tools and surveillance technology are increasingly used. Continuously furthering your education and staying updated on new methods in the security industry is also wise. Lastly, discretion and high ethical standards are essential, as the profession often involves handling sensitive information.

Key facts about Detectives

• Education level: Post-secondary education of 1–3 years is most common
• Work environment: Varied between office, field, and digital environments
• Typical work form: Full-time, sometimes shifts or irregular hours
• Demand: 191 job openings within the profession
• Special skills: Investigation methods and technical competence

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, Detectives have opportunities to advance to leadership roles such as investigation manager, security director, or specialist in IT forensics. Some choose to start their own businesses and work as private detectives or security consultants. Forecasts from the Employment Service show continued stable demand, especially for those with digital skills and experience in complex investigations. The industry’s move towards increased digitalization and specialization creates new career paths in areas such as cybercrime investigation and internal audits. Opportunities for further education and certification also make it easier to change focus or take on more advanced investigative assignments.

Frequently asked questions about Detectives

• What is the average salary of a Detective?
  - The average salary for a Detective is 34 500 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 32 900 SEK, while men earn 35 400 SEK, which means women earn 93% of men's salaries.
• How has the salary development for Detectives looked over time?
  - Over the past three years, the average salary has increased from 30,700 SEK to 34 500 SEK, an increase of approximately 12.4%.
• What education is required to become a Detective?
  - Post-secondary education in security, law, or criminology, along with specialized courses, is common.
• What career options are there for Detectives?
  - Opportunities include advancing to investigation leader, security manager, or working as a consultant and private detective.
• How high is the demand for Detectives?
  - Currently, there are 191 job openings within the profession, indicating stable demand.
• Are there regional salary differences for Detectives?
  - Yes, salaries are generally slightly higher in metropolitan regions where demand is greater.