Occupational nurse

What does a company nurse do? – Tasks and work environment

A company nurse works to promote health and prevent illness in workplaces. The role involves performing health checks, providing advice on work environment and ergonomics, and supporting both managers and employees on issues related to occupational health. Often, a company nurse participates in rehabilitation processes and collaborates with other members of occupational health teams, such as doctors, psychologists, and work environment engineers. The work environment is usually office-based but can also include visits to various workplaces to identify risks and provide on-site advice. The profession requires high flexibility and collaboration skills, as tasks vary based on client needs.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for company nurses has steadily increased. In 2022, the average salary was 40,900 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 41 800 SEK in 2023, representing a rise of about 2.2%. The positive trend continued in 2024 when the average salary rose to 43 800 SEK, which is an additional increase of nearly 4.8% compared to the previous year. This development reflects a continued strong demand for expertise in occupational health, especially given the increased focus on work environment and preventive health care. Salary increases are also influenced by competition for licensed nurses and many employers investing in further training and specialization within the field.

Company nurse salary – a comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 43 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 43,200 SEK/month (male, private sector employee)
• Highest salary: 45,600 SEK/month (female, municipal sector)
• Hourly wage: 263 SEK
• Women: 43 900 SEK
• Men: 44,000 SEK (highest), other data missing
• Regional differences: Data varies, but generally slightly higher salary levels in metropolitan areas

Education and qualifications

To work as a company nurse, licensure as a nurse is required, often supplemented with a specialist qualification in occupational health or work environment. The educational path includes both basic nursing education and further specialization, and many employers also value experience from healthcare. Internships and continuing education in work environment, rehabilitation, and health promotion are common components.

• Nursing degree: 3 years at university/higher education
• Specialist training in occupational health: 1 year (master’s level)
• Licensure: The National Board of Health and Welfare requires licensure as a nurse
• Internship: Usually included during training
• Continuing education: Courses in work environment, rehabilitation, and health promotion recommended

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to base salary, benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, extra vacation days, and opportunities for professional development are often offered. Occupational pension and health insurance are common, especially in larger occupational health services or public employers. Some employers also offer bonuses tied to workplace health projects or special initiatives.

Competition and challenges

Demand for company nurses is generally high, with approximately 375 job openings. At the same time, competition exists for the most attractive positions, especially in metropolitan areas and with larger employers. A challenge is that tasks can be highly varied and require broad competence in medicine, work environment, and communication. Staying updated on legislation and new work environment requirements is crucial, as is managing changing workplaces and quickly switching between different assignments. Since the profession often involves advisory roles, integrity and pedagogical skills are essential to reach both employers and employees.

Tips for those wanting to become a company nurse

To succeed as a company nurse, it’s beneficial to combine medical expertise with a strong interest in work environment issues. Being communicative and pedagogical facilitates collaboration with both employers and employees, while analytical skills are needed to identify risk factors and suggest solutions. Flexibility is key, as tasks can quickly shift between advising, training, and urgent interventions. Being attentive and empathetic makes it easier to support individuals in different situations, while initiative helps drive improvement efforts forward. Finally, maintaining an interest in continuing education is important, as legislation and work environment requirements are constantly evolving and require up-to-date knowledge.

Key facts about Company Nurse

• Education level: Licensed nurse with specialist training
• Work environment: Office-based with fieldwork elements
• Demand: About 375 job openings in Sweden
• Work hours: Usually daytime, sometimes flexible hours
• Special skills: Work environment, health promotion, and rehabilitation

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a company nurse can advance to roles such as operations manager within occupational health, work environment specialist, or take responsibility for larger work environment projects. Other possible career paths include working as a consultant in work environment or further training as an occupational engineer. According to the Employment Service, there is no precise forecast for this profession due to limited data, but the general assessment is that demand for company nurses remains stable, especially with increased focus on work environment and preventive health care. The trend toward healthier workplaces is expected to continue, indicating good future prospects for the profession.

Frequently asked questions about Company Nurse

• What does a Company Nurse earn?
  - The average salary is 43 800 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, sector, and region.
• What education is required to become a company nurse?
  - Licensure as a nurse and often a specialist qualification in occupational health.
• Are there many job openings for company nurses?
  - Yes, approximately 375 job openings in Sweden.
• What are the duties of a company nurse?
  - Performing health checks, providing advice on work environment and rehabilitation.
• What are the future prospects for company nurses?
  - Demand is considered stable, but an exact forecast is lacking due to limited statistical data.
• What benefits are common in the profession?
  - Wellness grants, flexible working hours, and opportunities for professional development.
• What is the gender distribution among company nurses?
  - The profession is dominated by women, but exact figures for men are not available in current statistics.