Port chambers

What does a Hamnkamrer do? – Tasks and work environment

A Hamnkamrer is responsible for financial administration within port operations and major logistics hubs. The work includes ongoing bookkeeping, invoicing, budget monitoring, and reporting to management and authorities. The role often involves close cooperation with operational staff and external actors such as shipping companies and freight forwarders. The work environment is primarily office-based but can also involve regular visits to the port area for inventory and inspections, requiring accuracy and flexibility. Since ports are operations that often run 24/7, work outside regular hours may occur, especially during major financial closing or audits.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary of a Hamnkamrer has steadily increased. In 2022, the average salary was 47,800 SEK per month, followed by a slight increase to 48 200 SEK in 2023. The biggest change occurred between 2023 and 2024, when the average salary rose to 50 300 SEK, representing an increase of just over 4.3% during the period. This positive trend reflects an increased demand for qualified financial administration within the logistics sector, while competition for experienced candidates has contributed to rising wages. The market’s need for specialized skills and the increasing complexity of port finances and reporting are clear factors behind this development. The gap between men's and women's salaries has persisted, indicating that gender equality efforts in the profession still have room for improvement.

Hamnkamrer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 50 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 39,500 SEK/month (female, secondary education, various sectors)
• Highest salary: 56,300 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education < 3 years)
• Hourly wage: 303 SEK/hour
• Women earn: 48 100 SEK/month (89% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 54 000 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on port size and region, with larger ports and private employers often offering higher wages.

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a Hamnkamrer usually involves post-secondary education in economics, accounting, or logistics. Many employers seek experience in financial work within the transport or logistics sectors, but it is also possible to build skills through internships or trainee programs. Specialized courses in maritime economics or public administration can be advantageous for those aiming to work in municipal or government ports.

• Formal education: Post-secondary education in economics (2–3 years)
• Certifications: Courses in business systems and accounting
• Internship: Relevant internships in logistics, economics, or port operations
• Prerequisites: High school diploma, preferably with a focus on economics or transportation
• Tips: Courses in public procurement and maritime law can be advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Hamnkamrerers are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowances, and opportunities for professional development. In some cases, bonus programs linked to company results and extra vacation days are available. Flexibility in working hours is common, especially in larger ports or private companies, and sometimes includes access to occupational health services and subsidized meals.

Competition and challenges

The profession of Hamnkamrer is characterized by a paradoxical labor market: there is a high demand for qualified candidates, yet many leave the profession for new challenges. This makes it difficult for employers to recruit and retain skilled staff. Specialization in maritime and logistics, combined with high demands for financial precision, makes the competition for the most attractive positions intense. Digitalization and automation are creating new requirements for IT skills and adaptability, while workload can be high during financial closing periods or larger audits. For those willing to pursue further education and stay updated on industry developments, there are good opportunities to stand out in the competition.

Tips for aspiring Hamnkamrer

To succeed as a Hamnkamrer, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a strong sense of structure and attention to detail. Being proactive and self-reliant makes it easier to handle multiple projects simultaneously, and accuracy is crucial for correct financial reporting. Good communication skills are valuable since the role often involves collaboration with internal and external parties. Flexibility and the ability to quickly learn new systems or regulations are appreciated by employers. It is advisable to seek internships early in port or logistics environments to gain practical experience. Finally, having an interest in maritime industries and logistics’ role in society provides a deeper understanding of the business as a whole.

Key facts about Hamnkamrer

• Education level: Post-secondary education in economics (2–3 years)
• Work environment: Office-based but with some presence at port sites
• Typical work hours: Full-time, often daytime but sometimes shifts or on-call
• Demand: Both large and small ports seek this expertise, with 758 job openings in the profession
• Special skills: Financial systems, logistics, and reporting

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a Hamnkamrer, opportunities may arise to advance to roles such as financial manager, controller, or administrative director within port operations or other logistics-intensive companies. There are also possibilities to specialize in public procurement or project management for larger infrastructure projects. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that the job market for auditors and financial administrators, including Hamnkamrer, remains strong with good employment opportunities and unchanged demand over the next five years. The profession is also characterized by some mobility, as many leave for other financial roles or managerial positions. Those who continually pursue further education and stay updated on digital tools and regulations have particularly good future prospects.

Frequently asked questions about Hamnkamrer

• What is the average salary of a Hamnkamrer?
  - The average salary is 50 300 SEK per month.
• How do salary differences between men and women look?
  - Men earn an average of 54 000 SEK while women earn an average of 48 100 SEK, which is 89% of men's salary.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a Hamnkamrer?
  - The highest salary is 56,300 SEK (male, private sector, post-secondary education < 3 years). The lowest salary is 39,500 SEK (female, secondary education, various sectors).
• What education is required to become a Hamnkamrer?
  - Post-secondary education in economics (2–3 years) is most common, preferably supplemented with experience in logistics or transportation.
• What does the job market look like for Hamnkamrer?
  - Opportunities for employment are considered large, with 758 job openings and unchanged demand according to the Employment Service.
• What benefits are common in the profession?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible working hours, and professional development.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries can be higher in larger ports and in the private sector compared to smaller ports and the public sector.