What does an Expedition Assistant do? – Tasks and work environment
An Expedition Assistant is responsible for handling administrative and practical tasks at offices, schools, or other workplaces where order and structure are required. Common tasks include mail handling, filing, registering incoming and outgoing documents, and acting as a link between different departments or external contacts. The role often involves assisting with simpler financial tasks, booking meetings, managing archives, and sometimes helping with reception or service functions. The work environment is typically office-based and characterized by many social contacts, a fast pace, and demands for accuracy and service-mindedness.
Salary development over time
The salary for Expedition Assistants has increased steadily over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 28,300 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 29 000 SEK in 2023. The latest figure for 2024 shows an average salary of 30 400 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 7.5% during the period. This positive trend can partly be explained by an increased need for administrative staff in the public sector and a general salary development within service and office occupations. Education level and experience also influence salary growth, especially as post-secondary qualifications become more common among new hires. Market demand, particularly within large authorities and schools, has also contributed to upward pressure on salaries in the profession.
Expedition Assistant salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 30 400 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 23,300 SEK/month (male, government sector, less than 9 years of education)
- Highest salary: 33,000 SEK/month (male, public sector, less than 3 years of post-secondary education)
- Hourly wage (average): 183 SEK
- Women earn: 103% of men's salary (women: 31 000 SEK, men: 30 300 SEK)
- Regional differences: Salary variations occur depending on location and sector, with larger cities and public organizations often offering slightly higher wages.
Education and qualifications
The path to becoming an Expedition Assistant typically involves a high school diploma with an administrative focus, but work experience and supplementary courses are also common. For some employers, post-secondary education in administration or economics may be advantageous. Practical skills, computer literacy, and the ability to work structurally are central qualities.
- High school diploma: Administration, economics, or social sciences
- Post-secondary courses: Administration, economics, public administration (often 1–2 years)
- Internships: Common during education or through trainee programs
- Prerequisites: Good computer skills, proficiency in Swedish and English, spoken and written
- Certifications: Meritorious but not mandatory, e.g., Office suite
Expedition Assistants are often the hub of daily operations and have significant influence over routines and atmosphere at the workplace. A well-organized assistant can quickly become indispensable and develop into a key resource for both management and colleagues.
Common benefits and compensations
In addition to the base salary, Expedition Assistants are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, subsidized lunches, flexible working hours, and opportunities for skill development. Other common compensations include occupational pension, extra vacation days, and sometimes bonuses linked to company results. For those working in the public sector, collective agreement benefits and insurances are also included.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as an Expedition Assistant varies depending on region and sector. In larger cities and within public organizations, there may be many applicants per position, while smaller towns and private employers often have fewer applications. Digitalization and automated processes are also transforming the role and increasing demands for technical competence and flexibility. To stand out in the job market, it is important to have good service skills, be able to work independently, and quickly adapt to new tasks. The pace of change is high, and workload can be intense at times, requiring resilience and accuracy.
Tips for those wanting to become an Expedition Assistant
To succeed as an Expedition Assistant, it is beneficial to combine organizational skills with a strong service orientation and good teamwork abilities. Building broad administrative competence through education and internships increases chances of employment, especially if computer skills and knowledge of modern administrative systems can be demonstrated. Flexibility and the ability to quickly adapt to new routines make it easier to handle changes at the workplace. Being communicative and able to express oneself well, both verbally and in writing, facilitates cooperation with colleagues and external contacts. Attention to detail and reliability are qualities appreciated by employers and foster trust in the role. Taking initiative and showing engagement in tasks can also lead to more responsibilities and new career opportunities.
Key facts about Expedition Assistants
- Education level: High school diploma, often supplemented with courses or internships
- Work environment: Office setting, often within the public sector
- Gender distribution: Women earn on average higher salaries than men
- Demand: 481 job openings within the profession (2024)
- Special skills: Computer literacy and administrative proficiency are central
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the role as an Expedition Assistant, opportunities arise to advance to more qualified administrative positions such as administrative coordinator, office manager, or case handler. Some choose to specialize in economics or personnel administration, while others pursue further education to move into managerial roles within administration. The Public Employment Service’s forecasts indicate continued stable demand for Expedition Assistants, particularly within the public sector and education. Digitalization and increased efficiency demands are evolving the role, but the need for skilled administrators remains, and the number of available positions continues to be high nationwide.
Frequently asked questions about Expedition Assistants
- What does an Expedition Assistant earn?
- The average salary is 30 400 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, education, and sector.
- What education is required to become an Expedition Assistant?
- A high school diploma with an administrative focus is most common, but post-secondary courses and internships can be advantageous.
- Are there salary differences between women and men?
- Yes, women earn on average 31 000 SEK while men earn 30 300 SEK, meaning women have a salary at 103% of men's.
- What does the competition for jobs look like?
- The competition varies, but demand is generally good with 481 job openings within the profession (2024).
- What are the most common tasks?
- Mail handling, filing, registration, reception duties, and basic financial tasks are among the most common responsibilities.
- What is the highest and lowest salary for an Expedition Assistant?
- The highest salary is 33,000 SEK (male, public sector), and the lowest is 23,300 SEK (male, government sector).
- What personal qualities are needed in the role?
- Organizational skills, service orientation, flexibility, and good teamwork abilities are especially important.