Leisure consultant

What does a Recreation Consultant do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A recreation consultant works with planning, leading, and developing leisure activities for various target groups, often focusing on children and youth, but adults and seniors may also be included. Tasks include organizing activities, coordinating resources, supervising staff, and collaborating with associations, schools, and other community actors. The work is usually carried out within municipal services, but voluntary organizations and private employers can also be involved. The environment is characterized by social contact, varied workplaces, and a flexible schedule often including evenings and weekends to meet participants' needs.

Salary development over time

The salary for recreation consultants has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 29,600 SEK per month, increasing to 30 600 SEK in 2023. The latest data from 2024 indicates an average salary of 31 900 SEK, representing an overall increase of approximately 8% over the period. This trend reflects increased demand for the profession and general wage pressure within municipal roles. Women have consistently earned slightly higher average salaries than men, and gender pay gaps have favored women. Stable market needs and the importance of social initiatives have contributed to relatively good wage development, though salary levels remain moderate compared to some other public sector professions.

Recreation Consultant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 31 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,400 SEK/month (male, private sector employee)
• Highest salary: 37,600 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, post-secondary education shorter than 3 years)
• Highest salary for women: 35,700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary for women: 28,000 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 192 SEK
• Women earn: 32 100 SEK/month (102% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 31 500 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salary variations occur, especially between larger cities and rural areas, but exact figures depend on employer and demand.

Education and qualifications

To work as a recreation consultant, a post-secondary education in leisure leadership, pedagogy, or social work is usually required. Many employers also value experience working with children, youth, or other target groups within the leisure sector. Practical experience and strong leadership skills are often meritorious, as well as knowledge of project management and collaboration. There are also opportunities to supplement education with courses or certifications that strengthen skills in areas such as conflict management, culture, or sports.

• Formal education: Post-secondary education as a leisure instructor, typically 2 years
• Internship: Often included in the education and highly meritorious
• Courses/certifications: Examples include project management, conflict resolution, or child and youth psychology
• Prerequisites: High school diploma, often with a focus on social sciences or pedagogy
• Tips for choosing: Engagement in community or volunteer work provides valuable experience

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for recreation consultants include wellness allowances, opportunities for flexible working hours, professional development, and sometimes extra vacation days. Employers often offer occupational pensions, insurance, and in some cases work clothing or subsidized meals. Compensation for unsocial hours may also be provided, especially for evening and weekend work.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for recreation consultants is characterized nationally by a balanced recruitment situation with 237 available jobs in the profession. Demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, making competition moderate but stable. Challenges may include meeting changing needs of target groups and managing limited resources or budgets within municipalities. Flexibility, creativity, and collaboration skills are crucial for success, especially when activities need to be adapted to new conditions or societal challenges.

Tips for aspiring Recreation Consultants

To succeed as a recreation consultant, having a genuine interest in people and being attentive to their needs is beneficial. Good collaboration skills facilitate working with colleagues, associations, and other actors. Flexibility and adaptability are valuable, particularly when the workday involves quick changes. Creativity helps create engaging and meaningful activities, while leadership skills make it easier to motivate and inspire participants and colleagues. Practical experience in community or volunteer work provides a solid foundation and increases chances of employment. Finally, patience and the ability to handle challenging situations with calmness and professionalism are important.

Key facts about Recreation Consultants

• Education level: Post-secondary education, often 2 years
• Work environment: Varies, often municipal work and evening hours
• Demand: Moderate, approximately 237 available jobs nationally
• Gender equality: Women earn 102% of men's salaries
• Future prospects: Unchanged demand over 5 years

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a recreation consultant, opportunities exist to advance to leadership roles such as activity manager, coordinator, or manager in leisure and youth services. Some choose to specialize in project management, integration, or work with specific target groups. The forecast from the Employment Service indicates medium opportunities for employment and stable demand over the next five years. The job market is characterized by balance, with retirements and the need for new initiatives creating some mobility. Related professions include leisure leader, youth coordinator, and activity developer within public or non-profit sectors.

Common questions about Recreation Consultants

• What does a Recreation Consultant earn?
  - A recreation consultant has an average salary of 31 900 SEK per month.
• What are the salary differences between women and men?
  - Women earn 102% of men's salaries in the profession, with an average salary of 32 100 SEK compared to men's 31 500 SEK.
• What education is required to become a Recreation Consultant?
  - Post-secondary education as a leisure instructor, usually two years, is most common.
• What are the future prospects?
  - Demand is expected to be unchanged over five years and the labor market is in balance.
• What tasks are included in the profession?
  - Tasks include planning, leading, and developing leisure activities and collaborating with various actors.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries can vary between large cities and rural areas, depending on employer and demand.
• What benefits are common?
  - Wellness allowances, professional development, flexible hours, and sometimes extra vacation days.