Debt collection officer

What does a debt collection officer do? – Tasks and work environment

A debt collection officer works with managing and recovering unpaid claims for companies and organizations. Tasks include contacting debtors via phone, letter, and email, establishing payment plans, and handling reminders and legal actions. The role often involves collaboration with legal departments and contact with the Swedish Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden). The work environment is generally office-based with a high pace, where communication and administrative skills are crucial. Debt collection officers need to have good ability to handle people under pressure and work solution-oriented.

Salary development over time

Debt collection officers have experienced a clear salary increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 32,000 SEK per month. In 2023, the average salary increased to 34,200 SEK, representing an increase of about 6.9%. For 2024, the average salary is 35 000 SEK, continuing a positive trend with a 2.3% increase from the previous year. This salary development can partly be explained by increased demand for qualified officers in debt collection, as well as a general appreciation of administrative and economic roles in line with digitalization of tasks. A shortage of experienced officers has also contributed to rising wages in the profession.

Debt collection officer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 35 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,000 SEK/month (female, high school diploma, various sectors)
• Highest salary: 43,300 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, unspecified education level)
• Hourly wage: 210 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn an average of 34,200 SEK/month, information on men's average salary is unavailable
• Regional differences: There are indications of variation between regions, but no detailed statistics are available

Education and qualifications

To work as a debt collection officer, a high school diploma with a focus on economics or law is generally required. Many employers also seek experience in customer service or finance, and there are opportunities to supplement with courses in debt collection, law, and economics. Practical experience and good computer skills are often advantageous, especially with case management systems and digital communication.

• High school diploma: Economics or law (3 years)
• Post-secondary courses: In debt collection, economics, or law
• Internship/trainee: Common in larger debt collection companies
• Prerequisites: Experience in customer contact and administration
• Certifications: Some employers offer internal training and certification programs

Common benefits and compensations

Debt collection officers are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, pension schemes, and flexible working hours. Other common compensations include bonuses or commission-based incentives based on performance, as well as subsidized lunches or employee discounts. Some employers also provide further training and internal development programs to enhance skills within the profession.

Competition and challenges

The profession as a debt collection officer is characterized by high competition for the most attractive positions, especially at larger debt collection companies and in metropolitan areas. One of the main challenges is handling difficult conversations and conflict situations professionally. Digitalization and automation increase demands on technical skills and adaptability. At the same time, the role requires high accuracy and the ability to work systematically under time pressure. Those who want to stand out often need to combine legal knowledge with strong service skills and good communication.

Tips for those aspiring to become debt collection officers

To succeed as a debt collection officer, it is good to develop a high level of patience and attentiveness, as the work often involves contact with people in vulnerable situations. Accuracy is an important trait, as correct documentation and compliance with regulations are crucial. It can be wise to build early skills in handling conflicts and communicating clearly, for example through customer service or administrative roles. Basic knowledge of economics and law is an advantage and can be supplemented with relevant courses. Flexibility is also important, as tasks may vary between employers. A positive attitude towards change and digital tools helps manage rapid industry developments. Finally, teamwork skills are highly valued, as many cases require collaboration with colleagues and external parties.

Key facts about debt collection officers

• Education level: High school diploma with focus on economics or law
• Work environment: Office-based, often with a high pace
• Typical work schedule: Full-time, daytime, sometimes with flexible hours
• Demand: 758 available jobs according to the latest statistics
• Special skills: Debt law, customer management, digital case handling

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a debt collection officer, there are opportunities to advance to specialist roles in debt management, team leader, or administrative manager. Some choose to further their education in law or economics and move into roles such as credit assessor, process manager, or consultant in debt collection. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, it is difficult to give an exact assessment of future prospects for debt collection officers, as the profession is part of a broader occupational group. However, there is stable demand in the job market, with 758 available jobs across the entire group. Digitalization and automation mean the role is evolving, but the need for skilled officers remains significant, especially for more complex cases.

Frequently asked questions about debt collection officers

• What does a debt collection officer earn?
  - A debt collection officer has an average salary of 35 000 SEK per month. The lowest salary is 34,000 SEK and the highest salary is 43,300 SEK.
• What education is required to become a debt collection officer?
  - A high school diploma with a focus on economics or law is common, sometimes complemented with courses in debt collection or law.
• What do debt collection officers do daily?
  - Tasks include recovering debts, contacting debtors, establishing payment plans, and handling administrative matters.
• Are there many job opportunities?
  - There are 758 available jobs in the profession of debt collectors and pledge lenders, according to the latest figures.
• What is the work environment like?
  - The work environment is office-based with a high pace, focusing on communication and administration.
• What qualities are important in this profession?
  - Attentiveness, accuracy, stress resilience, and good communication skills are key.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn an average of 34,200 SEK per month, while information on men's average salary is unavailable, but the highest salary belongs to a man at 43,300 SEK.