Finance Assistant

What does an Economy Assistant do? – Tasks and work environment

An Economy Assistant supports the finance department with various administrative and financial tasks. Common duties include invoice management, ongoing bookkeeping, registration of supplier and customer invoices, reconciliations, and basic payroll administration. The role often involves regular contact with both internal and external parties, such as suppliers and customers. The work environment is typically office-based and characterized by structured processes, where accuracy, service orientation, and the ability to meet deadlines are especially important qualities.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for an Economy Assistant has shown a steady upward trend. In 2022, the average salary was 34,200 SEK per month, rising to 35 500 SEK in 2023 and further increasing to 36 400 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 6.4% over the three-year period. The positive development can be explained by inflation, higher demands for financial reporting, and increased complexity in financial systems. Meanwhile, the job market for economy assistants has shown signs of a surplus, which may influence salary development in the future.

Economy Assistant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 36 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 29,400 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, post-secondary education shorter than 3 years)
• Highest salary: 38,000 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, pre-secondary education)
• Hourly wage (average): 219 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 103 % of what men do (women: 36 500 SEK, men: 35 400 SEK)
• Regional differences: Vary, but statistically higher salaries in metropolitan regions

Education and qualifications

To work as an Economy Assistant, a high school education in economics or administration is usually required, but many employers also view post-secondary courses or vocational training positively. Practical experience is highly valued, and internal training or internships are common pathways into the profession. To strengthen your position in the job market, it may be wise to combine education with certification courses in bookkeeping and financial systems.

• High school diploma: Economics or business program (3 years)
• Post-secondary courses: YH training or university courses in economics (6–24 months)
• Certifications: Courses in bookkeeping, payroll, business systems
• Internships: Common in education and appreciated by employers
• Prerequisites: Good computer skills and attention to detail

Common benefits and compensations

Economy Assistants are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, subsidized lunch, and flexible working hours. Other common benefits may include professional development, corporate health services, and remote work options depending on the employer and operational needs.

Challenges and competition

The job market for Economy Assistants is characterized nationally by an oversupply of applicants, leading to strong competition for available positions. Forecasts indicate limited opportunities within the profession and an expected decrease in demand over the next five years. Digitalization and automation of financial administration contribute to some tasks disappearing or changing. To meet these challenges, it is increasingly important to stay updated with new systems and methods, as well as to broaden one's skills within finance and administration.

Tips for aspiring Economy Assistants

To succeed as an Economy Assistant, it is beneficial to combine accuracy with a structured approach and a strong sense of service. Quickly learning new financial systems and digital tools is a significant advantage, especially in a changing work environment. Flexibility and good teamwork skills make it easier to handle periods of high workload and diverse tasks. An analytical ability helps identify errors or deviations in financial flows, while a positive attitude towards routine work builds trust with colleagues and managers. Continuously furthering your education and taking initiatives for skill development can also open new doors within the profession.

Key facts about Economy Assistants

• Average salary: 36 400 SEK/month
• Education level: High school or YH education
• Gender differences: Women earn 103 % of men's salary
• Work environment: Office-based, structured, and digitalized
• Future prospects: Limited opportunities, surplus workforce

Career paths and future outlook

After a few years of experience, opportunities open for roles such as accounting economist, payroll administrator, or financial manager. Further education can also lead to more qualified positions within the finance department, such as controlling or closing accounts. However, employment agency forecasts indicate that demand for Economy Assistants is expected to decline over the next five years, with limited job opportunities and a national surplus of applicants. To enhance future prospects, ongoing skills development and broadening knowledge in finance and administration are recommended.

Frequently asked questions about Economy Assistants

• What is the average salary of an Economy Assistant?
  - The average salary for an Economy Assistant is 36 400 SEK per month.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for an Economy Assistant?
  - The highest salary is 38,000 SEK, and the lowest is 29,400 SEK per month.
• What are the gender differences in Economy Assistant salaries?
  - Women earn on average 36 500 SEK, while men earn 35 400 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become an Economy Assistant?
  - Typically, a high school education in economics, but YH or university courses are advantageous.
• How is the job market for Economy Assistants?
  - There is a surplus of applicants, and the outlook is considered limited nationally.
• What are the most common job tasks?
  - Invoice management, bookkeeping, reconciliations, and payroll administration.
• Are there opportunities for career advancement?
  - Yes, progressing to roles such as accounting economist or payroll administrator after some experience is common.