HR expert

What does an HR expert do? – Job responsibilities and work environment

An HR expert works on developing and managing the organization’s personnel resources. Job responsibilities include recruitment, skills development, employment law, negotiations, work environment issues, and strategic HR activities. Often, the HR expert acts as an advisor to managers and leadership, ensures compliance with laws and policies, and leads change and development projects. The profession involves close collaboration with both management and employees, and the work environment is typically office-based with elements of digital tools and meetings. HR experts are found in both private and public sectors, ranging from large corporations to smaller organizations.

Salary development over time

The salary for an HR expert has shown a stable and positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,000 SEK, which increased to 47 600 SEK in 2023 and further to 49 900 SEK in 2024. This increase corresponds to roughly 8.5% growth over the period. Driving factors include increased demand for qualified HR expertise, especially in areas like work environment, employment law, and digitalization of HR processes. Salary increases also follow the general trend within the white-collar sector, where HR functions have gained a more strategic role. Gender differences remain but are gradually narrowing as more women attain higher positions.

HR expert salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 49 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 40,500 SEK/month (female, public sector)
• Highest salary: 58,600 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage: 300 SEK/hour
• Women earn: 49 100 SEK/month (93% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 52 900 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salary variations occur, generally higher salaries are seen in metropolitan areas and within the private sector.

Education and qualifications

To work as an HR expert, a university degree in human resources, behavioral sciences, or similar fields is typically required, often combined with work experience in HR or related functions. Many employers also value specialized knowledge in employment law, negotiations, or organizational development. Additional merits include certifications and ongoing professional development.

• Bachelor’s degree in human resources, behavioral sciences, or economics (3 years)
• Further education and certifications in employment law, work environment, or HRM
• Internship/trainee programs during studies are recommended
• Work experience in HR, recruitment, or leadership is often a requirement
• Opportunities for self-study and online courses to strengthen specific skills

Common benefits and compensations

HR experts are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, extra vacation days, and opportunities for remote work. Flexible working hours and skills development are common, as are insurances and bonus programs in some companies. In the public sector, favorable vacation conditions and overtime compensation may also be available.

Competition and challenges

The competition for HR expert positions is considered moderate, with a balanced job market according to the latest forecast from the Swedish Employment Service. The demand for qualified HR competence remains stable and is expected to stay unchanged over the next five years. Challenges in the profession include keeping up with changing legislation, digitalization of HR processes, and navigating complex organizational changes. To stand out, broad and deep expertise, as well as the ability to work cross-functionally and strategically, are required.

Tips for aspiring HR experts

To succeed as an HR expert, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a genuine interest in people and organizations. Being communicative facilitates collaboration with both management and employees, while structure and precision are necessary for handling employment law and processes. Seek internship opportunities during studies to build experience, and stay curious about new digital tools and trends within HR. Conflict resolution and change management skills are valuable, as is an ethical approach to work. Networking within the industry and participating in relevant training enhances knowledge and career prospects.

Key facts about HR expert

• Education level: Bachelor’s degree or higher
• Work environment: Office-based, often hybrid/remote
• Demand: 751 job openings nationwide (May 2024)
• Gender distribution: The profession is dominated by women
• Special skills: Employment law, digitalization, change management

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as an HR expert, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as HR manager, HR Business Partner, or specialized functions like employment law or skills development. Some choose to work as consultants or start their own HR-related business. The forecast from the Swedish Employment Service indicates that the demand for personnel and HR specialists nationwide is expected to remain unchanged over five years, with a balanced job market. Opportunities exist particularly within digitalization and change management. The profession is broad and found in both private and public sectors, offering flexibility and variety in work life.

Frequently asked questions about HR expert

• What does an HR expert earn?
  - An HR expert has an average salary of 49 900 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, sector, and region.
• How does one become an HR expert?
  - Most commonly, by studying a human resources or related program, followed by experience within HR or similar fields.
• What are the job responsibilities of an HR expert?
  - Responsibilities include recruitment, employment law, skills development, work environment issues, and strategic HR work.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 93% of what men do within the profession.
• What are the future prospects for HR experts?
  - The job market for HR experts is expected to be balanced, with demand remaining unchanged in the coming years.
• What benefits are common for HR experts?
  - Benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, skills development, and flexible working hours are common.