What does a leisure center manager do? – Tasks and work environment
A leisure center manager is responsible for leading and developing activities at leisure centers, where young people are offered a safe and stimulating environment in their free time. Tasks include planning and implementing activities, personnel management, budgeting, and collaboration with schools, associations, and parents. The role often involves being a role model and building good relationships with youth, while also managing conflicts and providing support when needed. The work environment is characterized by a social and varied pace, with regular evening and weekend work.
Salary development over time
Salaries for leisure center managers have steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 30 600 SEK per month, rising to 31 900 SEK in 2024. The total salary increase during this period is approximately 8%, reflecting ongoing demand for the role and general salary trends within the municipal sector. Factors influencing salaries include increased skill requirements, greater responsibilities, and a focus on youth safety and well-being. Despite a stable job market, there is a clear trend where skills development and experience are financially rewarded.
Leisure center manager salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 31 900 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 27,400 SEK/month (men), 28,000 SEK/month (women)
- Highest salary: 37,600 SEK/month (men), 35,700 SEK/month (women)
- Hourly wage (average): 192 SEK/hour
- Gender differences: Women earn 102% of what men do (men: 31 500 SEK, women: 32 100 SEK)
- Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on employer and region, but generally stay close to the national average.
Education and qualifications
To work as a leisure center manager, a high school diploma supplemented with post-secondary studies in leisure leadership, pedagogy, or social work is usually required. Employers value relevant work experience, leadership skills, and the ability to work with youth. Practical experience from youth activities or similar roles is often advantageous and can sometimes compensate for formal education requirements.
- Post-secondary education: Leisure leadership training (2 years) or equivalent in social work
- Certifications/courses: Leadership training, conflict management, first aid
- Internship/trainee: Internship in leisure activities or youth work is recommended
- Prerequisites: High school diploma, preferably with a focus on children and leisure
- Tips for choosing: Engagement in associations or voluntary youth work is advantageous
Leisure center managers often play a key role in early detection and support of youth at risk of social exclusion or problems. By building trusting relationships, they can make a significant difference in young people's lives, far beyond the leisure center walls.
Common benefits and compensations
In addition to the base salary, benefits such as wellness allowances, extra vacation days, pension contributions, and opportunities for professional development are often offered. Many public sector employers also provide flexitime, support for further training, and sometimes subsidized meals or staff support. Evening and weekend work may entitle to additional pay according to collective agreements.
Competition and challenges
The job market for leisure center managers is characterized by balance, with moderate opportunities according to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast. Challenges in the profession often involve meeting the diverse needs of youth, managing resource limitations, and creating an inclusive and safe environment. Recruitment is influenced by political priorities and local investments in leisure activities. Larger cities may offer more positions but also higher competition for the most attractive roles. Workload and irregular hours require great flexibility and commitment.
Tips for aspiring leisure center managers
To succeed as a leisure center manager, strong social skills and a genuine interest in youth development are important. Being attentive and able to build trust facilitates contact with both youth and colleagues. Demonstrating leadership and clarity in your actions helps create safety and structure in the activities. Flexibility and problem-solving skills are crucial for handling unexpected situations and quickly adapting to changing needs. Engagement and patience are necessary to motivate and support youth in their daily lives. Gaining experience through voluntary work or internships in the leisure sector provides insight into the profession's challenges and opportunities. Actively developing your skills also improves employment prospects and long-term career development.
Key facts about Leisure Center Managers
- Educational level: Post-secondary education (2 years) recommended
- Work environment: Social and varied, often evening and weekend work
- Typical employment: Full-time within the municipal sector
- Demand: Moderate opportunities, 237 job openings nationwide
- Special skills: Leadership, conflict management, youth communication
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a leisure center manager, there are opportunities for more qualified roles, such as head of leisure activities, coordinator for youth issues, or development leader within the municipal sector. Some choose to specialize in social work, education, or project management. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, demand for the profession is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with a balanced recruitment situation. No major changes in the job market are anticipated, but experience and further education can provide advantages when applying for leadership or specialized positions.
Frequently asked questions about Leisure Center Managers
- What does a leisure center manager earn?
- The average salary for a leisure center manager is 31 900 SEK per month.
- How do salary differences between men and women look?
- Women earn an average of 32 100 SEK, which corresponds to 102% of men's salary of 31 500 SEK.
- What is required to become a leisure center manager?
- Post-secondary education in leisure leadership or social work and experience in youth activities are recommended.
- What are the highest and lowest salaries in the profession?
- The highest salary is 37,600 SEK and the lowest is 27,400 SEK, depending on gender, sector, and education.
- What are the future prospects for the profession?
- The labor market is balanced, with moderate opportunities and stable demand according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
- What benefits are common?
- Common benefits include wellness allowances, extra vacation days, pension contributions, and professional development.
- Are there regional salary differences?
- Salaries may vary slightly depending on region and employer, but generally stay close to the national average.
