What does a municipal secretary do? – Tasks and work environment
A municipal secretary plays a central role within public administration, primarily serving as the administrative hub for the municipality's political organization. Common tasks include preparing and following up on cases for the municipal council, municipal executive committee, and various committees, writing minutes, and managing the principle of public access. The work also involves coordinating decision-making processes, ensuring compliance with laws and regulations, and often acting as a contact person for politicians and citizens. The work environment is mainly office-based and characterized by a fast pace, where accuracy and the ability to handle complex information are crucial.
Salary development over time
Municipal secretaries have experienced steady salary growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,200 SEK per month, which increased to 44 700 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary is 46 500 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 7.6% over three years. This trend reflects continued demand for qualified administrators in the public sector and an increased focus on skills and experience in management. Salary increases have been somewhat higher than the average for similar professions, possibly because the tasks have become more complex and many municipalities invest in retaining and developing experienced staff. Gender differences persist, with women earning on average 93% of what men do.
Municipal Secretary Salary – Complete Overview
- Average salary: 46 500 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 30,200 SEK/month
- Highest salary: 60,200 SEK/month
- Hourly wage (average): 280 SEK
- Women: 45 300 SEK/month
- Men: 48 800 SEK/month
- Women’s share of men’s salary: 93%
- Regional differences: Less variation, but larger municipalities and metropolitan regions often offer slightly higher salaries
Education and qualifications
To work as a municipal secretary, a university degree in fields such as political science, law, or public administration is generally required. Many employers also value experience in qualified administrative work or previous employment in the public sector. Further training and specialized courses in municipal law, administrative law, and minute-taking are often sought after.
- Formal education: Bachelor's degree in political science, law, or public administration (3 years)
- Specialized courses: Municipal law, minute-taking, and the principle of public access
- Internship: Internship or traineeship within municipal administration is recommended
- Prerequisites: Good language skills and administrative ability
- Advice for choosing: Select programs with components of public administration and law for the best prospects
Municipal secretaries often have a unique insight into the entire decision-making process of the municipality, making this role one of the most central for understanding and influencing local democracy and community development.
Common benefits and compensations
In addition to the base salary, benefits such as flexitime, extra vacation days, wellness allowances, and pension contributions according to collective agreements are often offered. Professional development, subsidized lunches, remote work options, and sometimes access to corporate health services are also common. Many municipalities also provide various forms of staff support and insurance schemes.
Challenges and competition
The job market for municipal secretaries is characterized by balance, where the supply of qualified candidates roughly matches demand. However, variations exist depending on the size and location of the municipality, with smaller towns sometimes having more difficulty recruiting experienced staff. The profession demands high precision in legal matters, integrity, and the ability to handle complex cases under time pressure. Digitalization and increased transparency requirements also mean that work methods and knowledge requirements are evolving rapidly. For those seeking to establish themselves, flexibility and ongoing skills development are essential.
Tips for aspiring municipal secretaries
To succeed as a municipal secretary, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a structured approach. Being communicative and able to express oneself clearly in speech and writing is crucial, as the role involves frequent contact with politicians and officials. Accuracy and integrity are key traits, especially when handling confidential documents and complex cases. Gaining internship or part-time work in public administration provides insight into decision-making processes and helps build a relevant network. Continuous further education is also recommended, as legislation and working methods change. Those who show initiative and have an interest in societal issues often have good opportunities for career development in the field.
Key facts about Municipal Secretaries
- Education level: Bachelor's degree in political science, law, or public administration
- Work environment: Office-based, often with a fast pace and high demands for precision
- Typical work hours: Full-time, daytime with flexitime options
- Demand: Moderate, approximately 758 job openings in the profession
- Special skills: Minute-taking, municipal law, and the principle of public access
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a municipal secretary, opportunities exist to advance to more specialized or leadership roles, such as office manager, investigator, or department head within the municipality. Some move on to strategic positions within regional or national agencies. According to forecasts from the Employment Service, the job market for planners and investigators, including municipal secretaries, is balanced with moderate opportunities for employment. Over five years, demand is expected to remain unchanged, meaning competition for positions is unlikely to increase significantly. Those combining experience with further education have particularly good prospects for career advancement in the public sector.
Frequently asked questions about Municipal Secretaries
- What does a municipal secretary earn?
- The average salary for a municipal secretary is 46 500 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of approximately 280 SEK.
- What education is required to become a municipal secretary?
- A bachelor's degree in political science, law, or public administration is most common.
- Are there salary differences between women and men?
- Yes, women earn on average 93% of what men do in the profession.
- What are the job prospects for a municipal secretary?
- Demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with a stable job market.
- What are the most common job duties?
- Preparing and following up on cases for political bodies, writing minutes, and managing the principle of public access.
- What benefits are often offered?
- Common benefits include flexitime, wellness allowances, and extra vacation days.
- Where are the highest and lowest salaries?
- The highest salary is 60,200 SEK and the lowest 30,200 SEK, depending on education, sector, and experience.
