What does an HR specialist do? – Tasks and work environment
An HR specialist works on developing and managing the organization’s most valuable resource – the staff. Responsibilities include recruitment, skills development, employment law, salary issues, work environment, and negotiations with union representatives. It often also involves supporting managers and leadership in strategic personnel and organizational development issues. The work is mainly conducted in office environments, both at larger companies and within the public sector, where the pace is often high and expectations for service and professionalism are significant.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, HR specialist salaries have steadily increased. In 2022, the average salary was 46,000 SEK per month, then increased to 47 600 SEK in 2023 and further to 49 900 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to an increase of approximately 8.5% over three years. The salary increase can be attributed to increased awareness of HR’s strategic importance and a growing demand for specialists in the field. Despite competition for jobs, employers have been willing to pay more to attract and retain skilled HR specialists, especially in the private sector and larger organizations.
HR specialist salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 49 900 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 40,500 SEK/month
- Highest salary: 58,600 SEK/month
- Hourly wage (average): 300 SEK
- Gender differences: Women earn 49 100 SEK, men 52 900 SEK (93%)
- Regional differences: Salaries are generally higher in metropolitan regions and within the private sector
Education and qualifications
The path to becoming an HR specialist usually goes through a university degree in human resource management, behavioral sciences, or similar fields. Many employers also value practical experience in HR work and sometimes additional courses or certifications in employment law, recruitment, or leadership. The industry values both theoretical knowledge and the ability to work closely with operations.
- University degree: Human resource management program or similar, 3 years
- Certifications: Employment law, recruitment, leadership (voluntary but advantageous)
- Internship/Trainee: Common during studies
- Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies
- Tips: Courses in work environment and negotiation strengthen employability
HR specialists often play a key role in driving change during organizational transformations, such as mergers or restructuring. Working with people in these situations requires great tact and the ability to handle both strategic and emotional issues simultaneously.
Common benefits and compensations
In addition to the base salary, HR specialists often receive benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, extra vacation days, and the possibility of flexible working hours or remote work. Other common compensations include training grants, health insurance, and sometimes bonuses linked to company results.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as an HR specialist is generally balanced, meaning there is neither an oversupply nor a shortage of qualified candidates. Challenges in the profession often involve navigating between employer and employee interests, especially during reorganizations or changes in employment law. The ability to quickly understand new regulations and digital tools is important, as is managing sensitive personnel matters. In larger organizations, specialization in areas such as work environment, recruitment, or skills development can be both an opportunity and a requirement.
Tips for those who want to become an HR specialist
To succeed as an HR specialist, it’s good to combine analytical skills with a genuine interest in people. Building a network and staying updated on employment law issues provides an advantage, especially when new laws or collective agreements are introduced. Communication skills are crucial to support managers and employees in daily work and change processes. Being solution-oriented helps with conflict management and negotiations, while integrity and discretion are necessary qualities when working with sensitive personnel issues. Practical experience, such as through internships or working as an HR assistant, provides valuable insights and increases chances of securing a first job.
Key facts about HR specialists
- Educational level: Usually a university degree, 3 years
- Work environment: Office-based with a high pace
- Demand: Moderate, approximately 758 available jobs nationwide
- Gender distribution: Majority women, some salary difference in favor of men
- Special skills: Employment law, negotiations, digital HR systems
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as an HR specialist, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as HR Business Partner, HR Manager, or specialized roles within areas like work environment, talent management, or employer branding. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service show that demand for HR specialists is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with a balanced labor market and medium-sized job opportunities nationwide. Those combining experience with further education in leadership or strategic HR have particularly good chances for career development. Related occupations include personnel manager, recruiter, and organizational consultant.
Frequently asked questions about HR specialists
- What is the average salary of an HR specialist?
- The average salary for an HR specialist is 49 900 SEK per month.
- What do gender salary differences look like?
- Men earn on average 52 900 SEK, women 49 100 SEK, which means women earn approximately 93% of men's salary.
- What education is required to become an HR specialist?
- A university degree in human resource management, behavioral sciences, or similar is usually required.
- Are there regional salary differences?
- Yes, salaries are generally higher in metropolitan regions and within the private sector.
- What does the job market look like for HR specialists?
- There are approximately 758 available jobs, and the Swedish Public Employment Service estimates that demand will remain unchanged over the next five years.
- What are the highest and lowest salaries for an HR specialist?
- The highest salary is 58,600 SEK (male, private sector), the lowest is 40,500 SEK (female, public sector).
- What common benefits are offered to HR specialists?
- Occupational pension, wellness allowance, extra vacation days, and flexible working hours are common.
