Health educator

What does a Hälsopedagog do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Hälsopedagog works to promote health and prevent ill-health among individuals, groups, or at the community level. Tasks vary but often include planning, implementing, and evaluating interventions related to lifestyle issues such as nutrition, exercise, stress, and work environment. Hälsopedagogs can work in schools, companies, wellness organizations, or municipalities. The role involves both educational and coaching tasks, motivating and supporting others to make healthy choices. The work environment is often diverse, involving both office work and fieldwork with clients or groups.

Salary development over time

Salary development for Hälsopedagogs has been positive over the past three years, though at varying rates. In 2022, the average salary was 31,926 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 34 700 SEK, representing a salary increase of about 8.7%. Between 2023 and 2024, salaries continued to rise, albeit more slowly, reaching today's level of 35 000 SEK per month, a rise of just under 1%. This trend reflects an increased focus on health-promoting efforts in society, as well as a maturing job market for the profession. Demand for Hälsopedagogs has started to grow, which may explain the recent salary improvements.

Hälsopedagog Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 35 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 29,800 SEK/month (female, private sector, secondary education)
• Highest salary: 44,600 SEK/month (male, public sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage: 210 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: men earn 36 500 SEK, women 34 600 SEK (95% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and sector, but detailed figures are lacking.

Education and Qualifications

To work as a Hälsopedagog, a post-secondary education in health, wellness, or pedagogy is usually required. Many choose a three-year university program, such as a bachelor's degree in public health or health education. Practical components and supplementary courses in areas like counseling methods or coaching are often advantageous. Some employers also require experience working with groups or project management.

• Formal degree: Bachelor's degree (3 years) in public health, health education, or similar
• Certifications/courses: Courses in coaching, counseling techniques, or stress management are advantageous
• Practical experience: Internships during studies are highly recommended
• Prerequisites: High school diploma with focus on society, healthcare, or sports
• Tips for choosing: Combine education with experience in group activities and project management

Common Benefits and Compensation

Hälsopedagogs are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible hours, opportunities for professional development, and sometimes subsidized training. In some cases, additional vacation days or pension contributions are included, especially in the public sector. Opportunities for further education and personal growth are generally good within the profession.

Competition and Challenges

The competition for Hälsopedagog positions is currently relatively high, as the supply of qualified candidates exceeds demand. The Employment Service assesses that job opportunities are limited today, but demand is expected to increase over the next five years. Many positions are advertised as temporary projects or part-time, which can make it harder to find permanent full-time employment. To stand out, additional skills such as project management or digital tools for health coaching are often required. Staying updated on new research and trends in health and wellness is also important.

Tips for Aspiring Hälsopedagogs

To succeed as a Hälsopedagog, being communicative and pedagogical is important, as much of the work involves inspiring and guiding others. Being attentive and empathetic helps when assessing individual needs and tailoring interventions. Good organizational skills are vital for planning and managing projects, as well as collaborating with different professional groups. Flexibility and creativity facilitate work tasks that involve teaching, advising, and administrative work. A strong personal interest in health and well-being is an advantage, as it builds credibility and engagement with clients. Building a network during your studies and actively participating in industry forums is recommended. Finally, supplementing education with courses in digital tools is wise, as many employers now value digital competence.

Key Facts about Hälsopedagog

• Education level: Bachelor's degree or equivalent (3 years)
• Work environment: Diversified, both office-based and on-site with clients or groups
• Job market: 237 job openings nationwide within the profession
• Demand: Limited today, but increasing over 5 years
• Special skills: Health coaching, project management, digital tools

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years in the profession, a Hälsopedagog can advance to roles such as project manager for larger health initiatives, occupational health coordinator, or training manager in wellness. Further education to become a health coach, public health strategist, or specialization in areas like workplace rehabilitation is common. The Employment Service predicts that demand for Hälsopedagogs and wellness consultants will increase over the next five years, although current job opportunities are limited. The profession offers a broad job market with 237 vacancies nationwide, and those combining pedagogical and specialized skills have good prospects for career development. Especially in the public sector, long-term projects and influence on public health policies are common.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hälsopedagog

• What is the average salary of a Hälsopedagog?
  - A Hälsopedagog has an average monthly salary of 35 000 SEK.
• What education is required to become a Hälsopedagog?
  - Usually, a bachelor's degree in health education, public health, or similar is required.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn 34 600 SEK on average, which is 95% of men's salary of 36 500 SEK.
• What does the job market look like for Hälsopedagogs?
  - Opportunities are limited today, but demand is expected to rise over the next five years.
• Which workplaces hire Hälsopedagogs?
  - Common employers include municipalities, schools, companies, wellness organizations, and private actors.
• What are the lowest and highest salaries for a Hälsopedagog?
  - The lowest salary is 29,800 SEK and the highest is 44,600 SEK, depending on education, gender, and sector.
• What personal qualities are important for a Hälsopedagog?
  - Communication, empathy, organizational skills, and flexibility are highly valued in the profession.