Crime Commissioner

What does a Criminal Commissioner do? – Tasks and work environment

A Criminal Commissioner works within the Police Authority and is responsible for leading and coordinating major criminal investigations. The role includes planning, assigning, and following up investigative work, often focusing on serious crimes such as murder, aggravated robbery, and organized crime. The work also involves supervising and supporting other investigators, maintaining contact with prosecutors, and collaborating with other agencies and international partners. The work environment is characterized by high pace, complex cases, and demands for accuracy, while tasks are often varied and require strong leadership and analytical skills.

Salary development over time

The salary of a Criminal Commissioner has shown a clear upward trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 38,800 SEK per month, which increased to 40 800 SEK in 2023, a rise of about 5%. In 2024, the average salary further increased to 44,100 SEK, representing an almost 8% increase compared to the previous year. This salary development reflects increased demands for education and experience in the profession, as well as the significant societal importance of the Criminal Commissioner’s work. The demand for experienced investigators and leaders has risen, along with general salary adjustments in the public sector. Increased efforts against organized crime have also positively impacted salary levels.

Criminal Commissioner salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 44,100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 42,500 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 49,200 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 265 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 43 300 SEK, men earn 44 500 SEK (women 97% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salary variations may occur, but most work in the public sector where salary structures are relatively similar across the country

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a Criminal Commissioner begins with basic police education, followed by several years of professional experience and further training in investigation and leadership. To be eligible for the position, additional education in law, investigative work, or leadership is often required, along with documented experience of complex investigations. The role also demands good analytical ability, communication skills, and leadership qualities.

• Police education: Basic police training (2.5 years)
• Further education: Leadership courses and investigation training
• Experience requirements: Several years of service as a police officer and investigator
• Prerequisites: Approved tests and background checks
• Tip: Focus on gaining experience in complex investigations and developing leadership skills

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for Criminal Commissioners include occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible working hours, and compensation for unsociable hours and on-call work. Additional benefits may include access to professional development, internal training, and, in some cases, support for further studies or leadership development.

Competition and challenges

The job market for Criminal Commissioners is characterized by fierce competition for leadership positions, as it requires both extensive experience and specific leadership qualities. Challenges in the profession often involve managing complex and resource-intensive investigations, leading teams under pressure, and making difficult decisions on short notice. The role also entails significant responsibility for the work environment and legal security within investigative work. High demands are placed on continuous education and adaptation to new methods and legal changes. Despite this, interest in the profession remains high, resulting in continued competition for available positions.

Tips for those who want to become a Criminal Commissioner

To succeed as a Criminal Commissioner, it is important to combine analytical sharpness with the ability to lead and motivate others. Early involvement in investigative work helps build practical experience, and actively developing communication skills is crucial, as the role involves extensive collaboration internally and externally. Being meticulous and structured facilitates work with complex investigations and documentation, while problem-solving skills and resilience are valuable in unexpected situations. Leadership skills are best developed by taking responsibility in projects and mentoring colleagues, and interest in law and societal issues provides valuable insights into the profession. Finally, demonstrating integrity and good judgment is essential, as the role involves significant responsibility for legal security.

Key facts about Criminal Commissioner

• Education level: Police and further education in investigation and leadership
• Work environment: Public sector, often office-based with fieldwork elements
• Work arrangement: Full-time, often with flexible hours and on-call options
• Demand: High competition for leadership positions, 191 available jobs within the profession
• Special skills: Leadership, advanced investigation, national and international collaboration

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a Criminal Commissioner, there are opportunities to advance to senior roles such as Criminal Inspector, Operations Manager, or Strategic Leader within the police. Specialization in areas like serious crimes, financial crime, or international cooperation is also possible. According to the Swedish Employment Agency’s forecast, there is no exact prediction for Criminal Commissioners, but indications suggest stable demand within the police profession, with recently reported 191 available jobs. The future outlook for Criminal Commissioners is therefore considered positive, especially for those with specialized skills and leadership experience.

Frequently asked questions about Criminal Commissioner

• What does a Criminal Commissioner earn?
  - A Criminal Commissioner has an average salary of 44,100 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience and education.
• What education is required to become a Criminal Commissioner?
  - Basic police training plus further education and several years of investigative experience are required.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn an average of 44 500 SEK and women 43 300 SEK, meaning women earn 97% of men’s salaries.
• What does the job market look like for Criminal Commissioners?
  - There is high competition for positions but demand remains stable, with 191 available jobs in the profession.
• What benefits are common for Criminal Commissioners?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible hours, and compensation for unsociable hours.
• What is the highest salary for a Criminal Commissioner?
  - The highest salary is 49,200 SEK for men with a doctoral degree, and 46,000 SEK for women.
• What is the lowest salary for a Criminal Commissioner?
  - The lowest salary is 42,500 SEK for women and 44,100 SEK for men, depending on education and experience.