What does an information assistant, traffic information officer do? – Tasks and work environment
An information assistant, traffic information officer primarily works to provide travelers and the public with current traffic information, both digitally and through personal meetings, phone, or chat. Common tasks include answering questions about schedules, tickets, traffic disruptions, and alternative routes. The role often involves contact with internal and external parties, such as traffic controllers, drivers, and customer service. The work is usually performed in an office environment or at traffic centers where the pace can be high, especially during major traffic disruptions, and working hours may vary depending on the employer’s hours.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, the salary development for information assistants and traffic information officers has been positive. In 2022, the average salary was 31,800 SEK per month, which increased to 32 500 SEK in 2023. The latest data from 2024 shows an average salary of 34 100 SEK. This corresponds to a salary increase of approximately 7.2% over the period. This development can partly be explained by the increased demand for qualified customer service within public transportation and the need for digital competence as information channels evolve. The salary increase has also been influenced by a general appreciation of service professions and collective agreement adjustments in the sector.
Information assistant, traffic information officer salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 34 100 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 24,900 SEK/month (men), 30,800 SEK/month (women)
- Highest salary: 39,100 SEK/month (men), 37,100 SEK/month (women)
- Hourly wage (average): 205 SEK
- Gender differences: Women earn 101% of men's salary (men: 34 000 SEK, women: 34 200 SEK)
- Regional differences: Data missing
Education and qualifications
To work as an information assistant or traffic information officer, a high school diploma is usually required, preferably with a focus on service, administration, or tourism. Many employers also seek post-secondary courses or training in communication, transportation, or customer service. Practical experience in similar service roles is highly valued, as are good IT skills since much of the work is performed in digital systems.
- High school diploma: For example, from the Business and Administration program
- Post-secondary courses: In customer service, communication, or transportation (typically 6–12 months)
- Internship or traineeship: Often advantageous, especially within public transportation or the travel industry
- Prerequisites: Good language skills and computer literacy
- Certifications: Present in some transit companies and can increase employability
Many traffic information officers get the opportunity to work in real-time with societally important information during major traffic disruptions or events, providing variety and a clear sense of responsibility in daily work.
Common benefits and compensations
It is common for information assistants and traffic information officers to be covered by collective agreements that provide overtime pay, extra compensation for unsociable working hours, and occupational pension. Other benefits may include wellness contributions, subsidized lunches, or employee discounts on travel and public transportation. Some workplaces also offer skills development and internal training.
Competition and challenges
The job market for information assistants and traffic information officers is characterized by relatively high competition for permanent positions, but there are good opportunities for temporary and hourly jobs, especially in larger cities. Technological development means that tasks change rapidly, requiring professionals to continuously update their knowledge of new systems and digital tools. Increased automation and digitalization may reduce the need for certain roles in the long term, but personal service and problem-solving skills remain highly valued. Stress management and the ability to work under pressure are important qualities, as work often occurs in real-time and can be affected by sudden events.
Tips for those who want to become an information assistant, traffic information officer
To succeed as an information assistant or traffic information officer, good communication skills are essential, as the work involves much contact with travelers and colleagues. Being resilient and flexible makes it easier to handle unexpected traffic disruptions and rapidly changing situations. A service-oriented attitude is crucial for creating positive customer experiences, especially during busy periods. Developing IT skills is also wise, as digital systems and platforms are used daily. Actively seeking internships or part-time jobs in public transportation or customer service provides valuable experience and networking opportunities. To increase chances of employment, taking short courses in communication or transportation can be beneficial. Finally, showing engagement and responsibility is important, as the profession often involves managing societally important information.
Key facts about an information assistant, traffic information officer
- Educational requirements: High school diploma, often supplemented with short post-secondary courses
- Work environment: Office-based, often in traffic centers or customer service environments
- Typical work pattern: Shift work, including day and evening shifts
- Demand: Approximately 550 job openings within the profession
- Gender distribution: Slight differences, women earn slightly more than men
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years of experience, an information assistant or traffic information officer can advance to roles such as team leader, trainer for new employees, or specialized traffic information officer responsible for larger traffic flows. There are also opportunities to further qualify as a traffic controller, communicator, or other administrative roles within public transportation and the transport industry. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the outlook is stable, with ongoing recruitment in larger cities and some competition for permanent positions. Digitalization and increased focus on customer experience make digital communication and service skills increasingly important for strengthening one's position in the job market.
Common questions about an information assistant, traffic information officer
- What does an information assistant, traffic information officer earn?
- The average salary is 34 100 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 205 SEK.
- What are the gender differences in salaries?
- Women earn 101% of men's salaries within the profession, which means women on average have 34 200 SEK/month and men 34 000 SEK/month.
- What education is required?
- High school diploma, preferably supplemented with post-secondary courses in service, communication, or transportation.
- What does the job market look like?
- There are approximately 550 job openings within the profession, mainly in larger cities.
- What are the most common benefits?
- Collective agreements, overtime pay, wellness contributions, and opportunities for skills development are common.
- How has the salary developed in recent years?
- Salaries have increased by about 7.2% between 2022 and 2024.
- Are there significant regional salary differences?
- Data on regional differences is lacking, but variations may occur depending on employer and location.
