IT consultant, system development

What does an IT consultant within systems development do? – Tasks and work environment

An IT consultant within systems development works on developing, customizing, and optimizing software systems for various clients and companies. Tasks often include programming, system integration, requirements analysis, testing, and implementing new IT solutions. The consultant role typically involves project-based work, often in close collaboration with the client’s IT department or other consultants. The work environment is primarily office-based and characterized by a fast pace, continuous technological advancements, and demands for problem-solving in complex environments. Flexibility is common, and the possibility of remote work has increased significantly within the industry.

Salary development over time

Salaries for IT consultants within systems development have shown a clear upward trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 50,700 SEK per month. The following year, it increased to 52 800 SEK, representing an increase of about 4%. In 2024, the average salary continued to rise to 54 900 SEK, a further increase of nearly 4% compared to the previous year. The demand for qualified systems developers and consultants in the IT sector drives salary increases, while digitalization and technological innovation require increasingly high levels of competence. Salaries are also affected by rapid industry changes, competition for talent, and the need for specialized knowledge in areas such as cloud services, AI, and cybersecurity.

IT consultant within systems development salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 54 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 40,000 SEK/month (female, government sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 61,600 SEK/month (male, private sector, research degree)
• Hourly wage (average): 330 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 95% of what men do (52 700 SEK/month vs. 55 600 SEK/month)
• Regional differences: Salary levels can vary, but metropolitan areas often have higher average salaries than other regions

Education and qualifications

To work as an IT consultant within systems development, postgraduate education in data and systems science, computer engineering, or similar fields is usually required. Many have a university or master’s degree in engineering, but pathways through YH-educations, certifications, and extensive self-study also exist. Practical experience and the ability to quickly learn new technologies are highly valued by employers.

• Formal degree: University or master’s degree in IT (3–5 years)
• Certifications: Examples include Microsoft, AWS, Scrum, or other technology-specific certificates
• Internship/Trainee: Common during education or as an initial step in the career
• Prerequisites: Programming skills and basic understanding of systems development
• Self-study/online: Possible to supplement with courses and training remotely

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to base salary, benefits such as occupational pension, private healthcare insurance, wellness contributions, and remote work options are often offered. Many employers in the IT sector also invest in professional development, conferences, and flexible working hours to attract and retain qualified employees.

Competition and challenges

Competition for the most attractive projects is high, especially in areas like AI, cloud services, and cybersecurity. At the same time, rapid technological development means that skill needs change quickly, requiring continuous further education and adaptation to new frameworks and programming languages. Challenges also include high workload and demands for constant availability, particularly in larger project deliveries. For recent graduates, it can be difficult to immediately secure the most advanced roles, while experienced consultants often face high expectations from clients and employers.

Tips for those who want to become an IT consultant within systems development

To succeed as an IT consultant within systems development, it’s good to combine technical curiosity with a structured working method and strong communication skills. Actively staying updated on new technologies and certifications increases opportunities for interesting assignments. Flexibility is an important trait, as tasks and client needs can vary greatly between projects. The ability to work independently, but also collaborate effectively in teams, is highly valued by employers. An analytical mindset facilitates problem-solving and helps to quickly find solutions to unexpected challenges. Building a professional network and participating in industry activities can also open doors to new career opportunities. Finally, it’s important to be attentive to customer needs and able to communicate technical solutions in an understandable way.

Key facts about IT consultants within systems development

• Education level: Post-secondary education, often university or master’s degree in engineering
• Work environment: Office-based, often with remote work options
• Demand: Very high, especially in metropolitan regions
• Typical work form: Project-based consulting work
• Special skills: Programming, system integration, cloud services

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, opportunities open to roles such as senior systems developer, architect, or technical project manager. Some choose to specialize further in areas like AI, cybersecurity, or cloud infrastructure, while others move into consulting management or entrepreneurship. According to the Swedish Employment Service’s forecasts, the job market for software and systems developers is expected to remain strong in both the short and long term, with significant opportunities for employment and career development. The demand is expected to stay unchanged over the next five years, and the recruitment situation is characterized by difficulties in finding sufficiently qualified candidates. In May 2024, there were 179 job openings nationwide in the profession.

Frequently asked questions about IT consultants within systems development

• What does an IT consultant within systems development earn?
  - The average salary is 54 900 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What education is required to become an IT consultant within systems development?
  - Usually postgraduate education in IT, such as a university or master’s degree in engineering.
• What is the job market like for IT consultants within systems development?
  - The job market is very strong, with high demand and good future prospects.
• Are there gender pay differences?
  - Yes, women earn on average 95% of what men do within the profession.
• What are the career paths?
  - After a few years, you can advance to roles such as senior developer, architect, or project manager.
• What benefits are common?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, healthcare insurance, wellness contributions, and professional development.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for an IT consultant within systems development?
  - The highest salary is 61,600 SEK/month and the lowest is 40,000 SEK/month, depending on education, sector, and experience.