Paint sales assistant

What does a Färghandelsbiträde do? – Tasks and work environment

A Färghandelsbiträde primarily works in stores specializing in paint, wallpapers, and related accessories for painting and renovation. Tasks include advising and guiding customers on color choices, materials, and techniques, as well as mixing paint according to requests and handling sales at the register. The role also involves receiving shipments, unpacking, product display, and inventory management. The work environment is often a retail setting with elements of warehouse work, where customer contact and physical labor are central parts of daily life. The profession requires good service skills and the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

Salary development over time

Salaries for Färghandelsbiträde have shown a steady increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,900 SEK per month, which increased to 31 900 SEK in 2023 and further to 33 800 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to a total increase of approximately 9.4% over the three-year period. The rise is linked to a generally strong retail labor market and a slight shortage of experienced store salespeople, while inflation and collective bargaining negotiations have also influenced salary levels. The trend indicates a somewhat faster salary growth than many other service professions during the same period, suggesting continued demand for the role.

Färghandelsbiträde salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 33 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,200 SEK (men), 32,100 SEK (women)
• Highest salary: 36,300 SEK (men), 35,800 SEK (women)
• Hourly wage (average): 203 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 96% of what men do (34 700 SEK men, 33 200 SEK women)
• Regional differences: Highest salaries are found within regional sectors

Education and qualifications

To work as a Färghandelsbiträde, a high school education is usually required, often within trade and administration or similar fields. Many employers value practical experience from retail or sales, and internal training is common. Specialized courses in paint and surface treatments, as well as product knowledge, are advantageous and may sometimes be offered by the employer.

• High school education: Trade and administration program (3 years)
• Certifications: Courses in color knowledge or sales training can be advantageous
• Internship: Workplace-based learning during high school is recommended
• Prerequisites: No formal education required, but experience from retail is a plus
• Tips: Engagement and interest in color and design often improve recruitment chances

Common benefits and compensations

Färghandelsbiträden are often covered by collective agreements that grant rights to vacation, overtime pay, sick pay, and pension contributions. Other common benefits include staff discounts on store products, wellness contributions, and sometimes bonuses linked to sales targets. Work clothing and training in product knowledge may also be provided by the employer.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a Färghandelsbiträde varies depending on region and store size. Larger cities and well-established chains often have more applicants per position, while smaller towns may find it more difficult to find suitable candidates. A challenge is that many work part-time, which can affect income and career opportunities. Recruitment difficulties also occur because the role requires a combination of product knowledge, service sense, and sales experience. Flexibility, resilience, and the ability to meet different customer needs are essential qualities for success in the profession.

Tips for those wanting to become a Färghandelsbiträde

To succeed as a Färghandelsbiträde, it is good to be service-oriented and attentive to customer needs, which facilitates building trust and creating repeat customers. Good communication skills help with advising and selling, especially when explaining different color choices and techniques. Showing curiosity and willingness to learn about new products and trends in the color industry is also an advantage, as the range develops quickly. Flexibility and resilience are needed during busy periods, while accuracy is important when handling paint mixtures and inventory routines. Taking the initiative to attend internal training or seek internships can improve employment opportunities. Finally, creativity and interest in color and form are valued, as they help provide customers with inspiring and professional advice.

Key facts about Färghandelsbiträde

• Education level: High school education recommended
• Work environment: Store and warehouse, often physically active work
• Typical employment: Full-time or part-time, often scheduled
• Demand: 550 available jobs within the profession right now
• Special skills: Color knowledge and customer advising

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a Färghandelsbiträde, there are opportunities to advance to store manager, department head, or specialist in color and surface treatments. Some choose to further educate themselves in sales, purchasing, or product development within the paint industry. The Employment Service's forecasts show that job opportunities in the retail sales profession are large and that demand is expected to remain unchanged over five years. However, there is a paradoxical situation with both recruitment difficulties and many part-time workers, which may affect the availability of full-time positions regionally. At the same time, motivated and knowledgeable employees have good opportunities for career advancement within retail or related fields.

Common questions about Färghandelsbiträde

• What does a Färghandelsbiträde earn?
  - A Färghandelsbiträde has an average salary of 33 800 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, region, and employer.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn on average 34 700 SEK while women earn 33 200 SEK, which means women have a salary at 96% of men's level.
• What education is required to become a Färghandelsbiträde?
  - High school education in commerce is recommended, but it is also possible to get employed with relevant work experience.
• What does the job market look like for Färghandelsbiträde?
  - The job market is good with 550 available jobs within the profession, and demand is expected to remain unchanged in the coming years.
• What career opportunities are available in the long term?
  - After a few years, one can advance to store manager, department head, or further education in sales and purchasing.
• What is the hourly wage for a Färghandelsbiträde?
  - The hourly wage is on average 203 SEK.
• What benefits are common for Färghandelsbiträde?
  - Common benefits include staff discounts, wellness contributions, overtime pay, and sometimes bonuses linked to sales.