What does a War Archivist do? – Tasks and Work Environment
A war archivist works with collecting, managing, and making archival materials related to military history, defense, and war accessible. Tasks include organizing and describing documents, maps, photographs, and objects from both government agencies and private donors. The role often involves responsibility for preservation, digitization of older materials, and advising researchers, authorities, and the public. The work mainly takes place in archival environments with high demands on security, structure, and confidentiality, often within government or public sector institutions.
Salary Development Over Time
The salary for a war archivist has shown steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 35,200 kronor per month. In 2023, the salary increased to 36 100 kronor, representing approximately 2.6% growth. In 2024, the average salary continues upward, reaching 37 600 kronor per month, a further increase of 4.2% compared to the previous year. This trend can partly be explained by increased demand for specialized archivists in the public sector and a generally higher complexity in managing digital and physical archives. Additionally, higher educational levels among professionals have contributed to rising salary levels, as more have doctoral or advanced archival qualifications.
War Archivist Salary – Complete Overview
- Average salary: 37 600 kr/month
- Lowest salary: 31,100 kr/month (male, government sector, high school education)
- Highest salary: 42,500 kr/month (female, public sector, doctoral degree)
- Hourly wage: 226 kr
- Gender differences: Women earn 37 400 kr (98% of men's salary, men: 38 200 kr)
- Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on location and sector, with metropolitan areas and larger agencies often offering higher wages.
Education and Qualifications
To work as a war archivist, a university degree in archival science, history, or related fields is usually required. Many employers also seek experience in document management, digitization, and knowledge of public access and confidentiality laws. Specialized courses in military history or information management can be advantageous.
- Formal degree: Bachelor's degree (3 years) in archival science, history, or equivalent
- Further education: Master's or postgraduate degree (1–2 years), sometimes doctoral studies
- Certifications: Courses in digital archiving and information security
- Internship: Recommended within archival institutions or authorities
- Prerequisites: Often high school diploma plus academic credentials
- Tips: Specialize in military history or digitalization to increase competitiveness
Many war archivists have the opportunity to work with unique and sometimes secret documents that have never been accessible to the public before. This requires both integrity and a genuine interest in Sweden's military history.
Common Benefits and Compensation
War archivists are often offered benefits such as generous vacation policies, flexible hours, wellness allowances, and remote work options. Within the public sector, pension contributions, professional development, and access to specialist networks are also common. Some employers additionally provide further training in digitalization and leadership.
Challenges and Competition
Competition for positions as a war archivist is relatively high, although demand for archivists in general is considered good. Since the role often requires specialized knowledge of military history and handling confidential documents, high standards are set for education and experience. The recruitment situation is paradoxical: there are difficulties finding suitable candidates, and a relatively high proportion of part-time workers or those leaving the profession. Digitalization of archives also means that tasks are evolving rapidly, requiring continuous skills development and flexibility with new methods.
Tips for Aspiring War Archivists
To succeed as a war archivist, it’s beneficial to combine an analytical approach with a strong interest in history and organization. Developing a meticulous and structured work style facilitates handling both physical and digital archives. Effective communication is key, especially when interacting with researchers and authorities, to ensure accurate and efficient information transfer. An interest in technology and digitalization offers advantages, as the archival field is rapidly shifting toward more digital methods. Integrity and discretion are essential when managing sensitive materials. A proactive attitude, prioritizing skill development and networking, enhances career prospects. Patience and perseverance are also valuable, as some projects can last over long periods.
Key Facts about War Archivists
- Education level: Bachelor's degree or higher in archival science or history
- Work environment: Archival settings, often in the public sector
- Typical work schedule: Full-time, daytime, sometimes remote work
- Demand: Good, with 620 job openings in the field
- Special skills: Military history and digital archiving
Career Paths and Future Outlook
After three to five years in the profession, a war archivist can advance to senior archivist, archive manager, or expert in digital information management. Opportunities also exist to specialize in research, education, or project management for digitalization initiatives. The employment agency’s forecast indicates a positive job market for archivists nationally, with significant opportunities and unchanged demand over the next five years. However, the paradoxical recruitment situation presents challenges, as high competition coincides with difficulties in finding suitable expertise. Specialization and ongoing skills development are crucial for long-term career success.
Common Questions about War Archivists
- What is the average salary of a War Archivist?
- A war archivist has an average monthly salary of 37 600.
- What education is required to become a War Archivist?
- Usually, a bachelor's degree in archival science, history, or related fields, plus sometimes further education.
- Are there gender differences in salary for War Archivists?
- Yes, women earn on average 37 400, which is 98% of men's salary of 38 200.
- What are the future prospects in this field?
- The job market is considered good, with ample opportunities and unchanged demand over the next five years.
- What are the highest and lowest salaries for a War Archivist?
- The highest salary is 42,500 kronor and the lowest is 31,100 kronor per month, depending on education and sector.
- What personal qualities are important in this profession?
- Accuracy, integrity, analytical skills, and an interest in history are especially important.
- How many job openings are available in this field?
- Approximately 620 positions are available within the librarian and archivist professions.
