Documentary

What does a Dokumentalist do? – Tasks and work environment

A Dokumentalist works with collecting, structuring, cataloging, and making information and documents accessible within organizations, authorities, or companies. Tasks often include creating and maintaining databases, indexing material, ensuring information security, and assisting colleagues and the public with information searches. Dokumentalists are often found in libraries, archives, research institutions, or within the cultural sector, but the role also exists in business and public sector. The work environment is usually office-based and characterized by structured work with both digital and physical documents. Digitalization of information management has become a central part of the profession, requiring good computer skills and system understanding.

Salary development over time

The salary for Dokumentalists has shown steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 35,200 SEK per month, increasing to 36 100 SEK in 2023. By 2024, the salary has continued upward and now stands at 37 600 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 6.8% over three years. This positive trend can partly be explained by increased demand for information management in digital environments, and the skill requirements have risen in line with technological developments. Despite the increase, salaries are still close to the average for similar academic professions, but there are good opportunities for continued salary growth for those who specialize or take on more responsibility within the organization.

Dokumentalist salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 37 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,100 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 42,500 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 226 SEK
• Women: 37 400 SEK/month (98% of men's salary)
• Men: 38 200 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Varies, but higher salaries occur in larger cities and within the public sector

Education and qualifications

To work as a Dokumentalist, an academic education in library and information science, archival science, or related fields is usually required. Many employers also seek experience with digital information systems and cataloging. Additional merits include courses or certifications in information management, digitalization, and data protection. Internships or trainee programs provide valuable insight into the profession and enhance employment opportunities.

• Bachelor's degree: 3 years in library and information science or archival science
• Certifications: Courses in digital information management or data protection
• Internship: Recommended during studies
• Prerequisites: Basic university eligibility
• Online courses: Self-study in information systems and digital cataloging

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for Dokumentalists include wellness allowances, flexible working hours, opportunities for remote work, and professional development. Within the public sector, extra vacation days and favorable pension contributions are often offered, while the private sector may offer bonuses and educational support. Employers are increasingly investing in further training in digital tools and information security.

Competition and challenges

The job market for Dokumentalists is characterized by a paradox; while many vacancies are reported, there are difficulties in finding the right competence. The demand for specialists in digital information management is increasing, but competition for the most attractive positions is high. Challenges in the profession often involve rapid technological development, requirements for continuous skills development, and increasing amounts of information to structure. Digitalization and automation demand higher adaptability and technical understanding, which can be a barrier for those lacking relevant further education.

Tips for those who want to become a Dokumentalist

To succeed as a Dokumentalist, it is good to combine analytical ability with a structured approach and curiosity about new technology. Precision is crucial when cataloging and systematizing information to ensure high searchability and quality. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with colleagues from different departments and help understand users' needs. Flexibility is important as tasks often change quickly with technological development. Building digital competence through courses or certifications is also wise, as digitalization characterizes the entire industry. Showing initiative and taking responsibility for your own skills development is appreciated by employers and can lead to faster advancement. Finally, patience and perseverance are an advantage, especially when large data sets are handled or extensive projects are completed.

Key facts about Dokumentalist

• Educational level: Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (3 years)
• Work environment: Office-based, often in the public sector
• Typical employment type: Full-time, permanent
• Demand: Great opportunities for work, especially in digital information management
• Special skills: Digital cataloging and information systems

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a Dokumentalist can advance to roles such as specialist in digital information management, project manager for larger documentation projects, or head of an information department. There are also opportunities to work with system development related to information management or to become an expert in data protection and information security. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, job opportunities are large and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. The recruitment situation is described as paradoxical, with many vacancies and a relatively high proportion of part-time workers or those leaving the profession. Digitalization and increased requirements for information security mean Dokumentalists with specialized skills in these areas have particularly good future prospects.

Frequently asked questions about Dokumentalist

• What does a Dokumentalist earn?
  - A Dokumentalist has an average salary of 37 600 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development looked for Dokumentalists?
  - Salaries have increased from 35,200 SEK in 2022 to 37 600 SEK in 2024, which corresponds to an increase of approximately 6.8% over three years.
• What education is required to become a Dokumentalist?
  - Typically, a bachelor's degree in library and information science or archival science, often combined with courses in digital information management.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 37 400 SEK while men earn 38 200 SEK, meaning women earn 98% of men's salaries.
• What are the future prospects for Dokumentalists?
  - Job opportunities are considered large and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What work environments are common for Dokumentalists?
  - Most work office-based within the public sector, libraries, archives, or research institutions.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a Dokumentalist?
  - The highest salary is 42,500 SEK and the lowest is 31,100 SEK, depending on education, sector, and experience.