What does a kommunkamrer do? – Tasks and work environment
A kommunkamrer is responsible for financial management, budget monitoring, and accounting within the municipal sector. The role often involves work with financial statements, economic analysis, and reporting to political committees and management. The work environment is typically office-based, involving close collaboration with accountants, auditors, and other departments. The kommunkamrer acts as a key person in the municipality’s financial administration and contributes to sustainable and transparent finances.
Salary development over time
The salary for kommunkamrerer has developed steadily over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 47,800 SEK per month, increasing to 48 200 SEK in 2023 and further to 50 300 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total salary increase of approximately 5.2% over three years. This positive trend reflects an increased demand for qualified economists in the public sector and a greater focus on financial control in municipalities. The salary growth gap between genders persists, with men experiencing a slightly larger percentage increase than women. Additionally, the industry has benefited from digitalization and increased demands for financial transparency, which may have helped raise the profession’s status and salary levels.
Kommunkamrer salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 50 300 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 39,500 SEK/month (female, high school education, various sectors)
- Highest salary: 56,300 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education less than 3 years)
- Hourly wage (average): 303 SEK
- Men's average salary: 54 000 SEK
- Women's average salary: 48 100 SEK
- Women earn: 89% of what men do
- Regional differences: Information on regional variations is currently unavailable
Education and qualifications
To work as a kommunkamrer, a post-secondary education in economics, often a degree from college or university, is typically required. Many employers seek experience in financial management within the public sector and a good understanding of accounting and legislation. Practical experience from similar roles and strong analytical skills are also highly valued.
- Economics degree: 3–4 years at college or university
- Courses in public economics and accounting: Recommended
- Internship or trainee programs: Common within the municipal sector
- Prerequisites: High school diploma, preferably with an economics program
- Certifications: Meritorious but not mandatory
Many kommunkamrerer have a unique opportunity to influence the long-term development of the municipality by working closely with decision-makers and participating in strategic projects. The role often involves insight into the entire municipal operation and can provide a broad network across several departments.
Common benefits and compensations
Kommunkamrerer within the municipal sector are usually offered benefits such as pension schemes, wellness allowances, flexitime, and opportunities for remote work. Vacation allowances are often generous, and there are opportunities for professional development through internal and external training. Other common compensations include subsidized lunches, parental leave pay, and favorable insurance schemes.
Competition and challenges
The profession of kommunkamrer is characterized by relatively high demand but also some competition for the most attractive positions. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, job opportunities are plentiful nationally, but the recruitment situation is paradoxical: many leave the profession while it is difficult to find the right expertise. A challenge is the high workload during financial closing or budgeting, as well as the need for constant updates to financial regulations. Digitalization and new reporting requirements also increase demands on adaptability and technical skills.
Tips for aspiring kommunkamrer
To succeed as a kommunkamrer, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with accuracy and an interest in public economics. Building a strong foundation in accounting and public finance, through both education and internships, provides good prerequisites. Good communication skills are essential as the role involves contact with multiple stakeholders and reporting to management. Being organized and resilient under pressure helps with deadlines, while teamwork skills facilitate work in cross-functional teams. A proactive approach and curiosity about digital tools can also give an advantage in the profession.
Key facts about Kommunkamrer
- Education level: Post-secondary education, usually a degree in economics
- Work environment: Office-based, often in municipal departments
- Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide
- Work form: Full-time position, sometimes flexible hours
- Special skills: Accounting, public finance, legislation
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a kommunkamrer, further development can lead to roles such as chief financial officer, controller, or auditor within the public sector. There are also opportunities to move into more strategic positions, for example as a financial manager for a larger department or as a consultant in public economics. The Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast indicates that demand for kommunkamrerer and related professions is expected to remain unchanged over five years, with continued availability of job openings. Currently, there are about 758 job vacancies nationally, indicating good future prospects for those wishing to advance in the field.
Frequently asked questions about Kommunkamrer
- What does a Kommunkamrer earn?
- A kommunkamrer has an average salary of 50 300 SEK per month according to current statistics.
- What are the gender differences in salary for kommunkamrerer?
- Men earn an average of 54 000 SEK while women earn 48 100 SEK, which means women earn 89% of men's salaries.
- What education is required to become a kommunkamrer?
- Post-secondary education in economics, often a degree from college or university, is usually required.
- What career paths are available for kommunkamrerer?
- Common career paths include controller, chief financial officer, or auditor within the public sector.
- What are the future prospects for the profession?
- Job opportunities are plentiful nationwide, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
- What are the most common benefits?
- Pension schemes, wellness allowances, flexitime, remote work, and professional development are common benefits.
- Are there significant salary differences between regions?
- Information on regional salary differences for kommunkamrerer is currently unavailable.
