Refugee consultant

What does a Refugee Consultant do? – tasks and work environment

A Refugee Consultant works to support and guide refugees and newcomers in their integration into Swedish society. The tasks often include advising on housing, employment, education, and social interventions, as well as collaborating with authorities, schools, and civil society. Refugee Consultants make individual assessments, develop action plans, and follow up on clients' progress. The work is usually carried out within municipalities, non-profit organizations, or government agencies, where the work environment is characterized by a fast pace, close contact with people, and the need for flexibility in different life situations and cultural backgrounds.

Salary development over time

The salary for Refugee Consultants has shown steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,500 SEK per month, which increased to 38 800 SEK in 2023, corresponding to a salary increase of about 3.5%. In 2024, the average salary has reached 40 300 SEK, representing an additional increase of approximately 3.9% compared to the previous year. This positive trend is partly due to increased demand for competent social workers, as well as a greater focus on integration issues and social support in society. The level of education among professionals and increased requirements for specialization have also contributed to raising salaries within the profession.

Refugee Consultant salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 40 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,800 SEK/month (male, public sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 54,300 SEK/month (female, public sector)
• Hourly wage: 242 SEK/hour (average, hourly employed)
• Women's salary: 40 400 SEK/month (102% of men's salary)
• Men's salary: 39 500 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data on variations are not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a Refugee Consultant, a post-secondary education in social work, social sciences, or similar fields is generally required. Many employers prefer a degree in social work, but other relevant university-level education can also be suitable. Practical experience in integration work and good knowledge of migration issues are advantageous, as are language skills and cultural competence.

• Degree in social work: 3.5 years (most common qualification)
• University education in social sciences: 3 years
• Courses in migration and integration: Additional training programs are available
• Internship or trainee position: Meritorious for employment
• Language skills: Swedish and other languages are a plus

Common benefits and compensations

Refugee Consultants are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, and subsidized lunch. Opportunities for skills development, supervision, and flexible working hours are common, along with extra vacation days and insurance linked to employment. Some employers also offer remote work options and further training.

Competition and challenges

The job market for Refugee Consultants is relatively stable, with moderate opportunities according to the Employment Service's forecasts. Demand is expected to increase over the next five years, but competition may vary depending on region and employer. One of the biggest challenges is handling complex cases and meeting clients' diverse needs within the framework of legislation and resources. Sometimes, high demands are placed on flexibility, stress tolerance, and the ability to work independently and in teams. Changes in migration policy and societal development can quickly impact workload and priorities.

Tips for those who want to become a Refugee Consultant

To succeed as a Refugee Consultant, it is good to combine genuine commitment to people with the ability to find solutions in complex situations. Good communication skills facilitate cooperation with both clients and partners, while analytical skills help in making correct assessments of individual needs. A structured work approach and patience make it easier to handle long processes and changing conditions. Being flexible and adaptable is crucial to meet new challenges, while a professional attitude provides security in meetings with people from different backgrounds. Finally, it is valuable to always be curious about further training and development within the field.

Key facts about Refugee Consultants

• Education level: University degree (often in social work, 3–3.5 years)
• Work environment: Municipal or non-profit sector, often fast-paced
• Work mode: Individually and in teams, close contact with clients
• Demand: Moderate, increasing according to the Employment Service
• Special skills: Migration, integration, language, and cultural understanding

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a Refugee Consultant, there are opportunities to advance to senior roles within integration work, become coordinators, or take responsibility for projects and development work within municipalities. Some choose to further their education to become social workers, unit managers, or work with policy issues in government agencies or non-profit sectors. According to the Employment Service's forecast, job opportunities are moderate but expected to increase over five years, especially as society places higher demands on integration efforts and social support. Currently, the number of advertised positions within the profession is 237, indicating some mobility and demand for expertise in the field.

Frequently asked questions about Refugee Consultants

• What does a Refugee Consultant earn?
  - The average salary is 40 300 SEK per month, with variation between 34,800 SEK and 54,300 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What education is required to become a Refugee Consultant?
  - Most commonly, a degree in social work or another university-level education in social sciences or related fields.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn on average 40 400 SEK, which is 102% of men's salary (39 500 SEK).
• Which employers hire Refugee Consultants?
  - Mainly municipalities, but also non-profit organizations and government agencies.
• What are the future prospects?
  - Demand is expected to increase according to the Employment Service, with moderate job opportunities and currently 237 job openings within the profession.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Engagement, flexibility, good communication, and patience are particularly valuable qualities.
• Are there opportunities for further education?
  - Yes, further training in migration, leadership, or specialization in social work is common.