Cultural assistant, archive etc.

What does a culture assistant in archives do? – Tasks and work environment

A culture assistant specializing in archives primarily works with organizing, preserving, and making documents and cultural-historical materials accessible. Tasks often include registering and cataloging archive documents, assisting with digitization of materials, and helping researchers and the public find information. Culture assistants in archives often collaborate with librarians, archivists, and other cultural workers. The work environment is characterized by order and structure and is usually located in public institutions such as archives, museums, or cultural administrations, where independent work and teamwork are common.

Salary development over time

The salary development for a culture assistant in archives has shown a stable and positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 28,400 SEK per month, increasing to 28 900 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary is 30 000 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 5.6% over the period. This development reflects a moderate but steady salary increase, likely driven by increased focus on digitization within the cultural sector and the need to secure and access archive materials. The salary increase is evenly distributed between genders, indicating good gender equality within the profession. The market for culture assistants remains relatively stable, and salary trends generally follow those of the public sector.

Culture Assistant in archives salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 30 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 26,800 SEK (female, government sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 32,400 SEK (female, public sector, post-secondary education shorter than 3 years)
• Hourly wage (average): 180 SEK
• Gender differences: Women and men have the same average salary (30 000 SEK/month)
• Regional differences: No specific regional salary data available

Education and qualifications

To work as a culture assistant in archives, a high school diploma with a focus on culture, administration, or social sciences is usually required. Many employers prefer candidates who have completed post-secondary vocational training in archive and information science or have supplemented their education with courses in cultural administration. Practical experience in archive work, digitization, and information management is advantageous and can often compensate for formal education. The ability to work carefully, structured, and service-oriented is important.

• High school diploma: Social sciences, administrative, or cultural orientation
• Post-secondary education: YH training or university courses in archive and information science
• Internship: Meritorious and often part of the education
• Courses: Digitization, document management, cultural administration
• Prerequisites: Good computer skills and interest in cultural heritage

Common benefits and compensations

Culture assistants in archives often enjoy collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness contributions, and generous vacation policies. Many employers also offer professional development, flexible working hours, and remote work options when needed. Benefits may vary depending on the employer and sector, but basic security and a supportive work environment are common features.

Competition and challenges

The job market for culture assistants in archives is relatively limited, although currently there are 758 available positions within the profession. Competition for permanent roles can be high, especially in larger cities and popular cultural institutions. Challenges in the profession include requirements for digital competence, the ability to handle large amounts of information, and staying updated on legislation regarding information management and archiving. Limited resources and changing priorities within the cultural sector can also affect opportunities for development and career paths.

Tips for those who want to become a culture assistant in archives

To succeed as a culture assistant in archives, it is beneficial to have a genuine curiosity about history and cultural heritage, as this increases motivation to work with archive materials. Attention to detail and a structured approach facilitate registration and handling of large amounts of information. Good organizational skills combined with a service mindset make it easier to assist visitors and colleagues professionally. Being flexible and adaptable is valuable, especially when tasks shift between practical and administrative work. Digital competence is a significant advantage, so staying updated on new tools and digital workflows is recommended. Gaining experience through internships or summer jobs in the cultural sector provides valuable contacts and skills, while strong teamwork skills enhance the ability to work efficiently in teams. Finally, patience and perseverance are important, as some tasks require long-term focus.

Key facts about Culture Assistant, archives, etc.

• Educational level: High school or post-secondary education in culture or archives
• Work environment: Public institutions, archives, and museums
• Gender equality: No salary difference between genders
• Available jobs: 758 within the profession
• Digital skills: Important for future development

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a culture assistant in archives, there are opportunities to advance to more qualified roles such as archivist, digitalization manager, or educational coordinator within the public sector or cultural institutions. Further education in archive science or information management can open doors to specialist positions or leadership roles. The outlook for the job market is difficult to assess according to the Employment Service, due to limited data. However, the profession is broad, and demand is influenced by investments in cultural heritage, digitization, and the public sector. Opportunities for employment vary regionally and between different employers, but skills in digital systems and information management are becoming increasingly important.

Frequently asked questions about Culture Assistant, archives, etc.

• What does a Culture Assistant, archives, etc. earn?
  - A culture assistant in archives has an average monthly salary of 30 000.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - No, both men and women earn an average of 30 000 SEK per month in this profession.
• What education is required to become a culture assistant in archives?
  - A high school diploma and preferably post-secondary education in archive and information science or cultural administration are recommended.
• What is the job market like for culture assistants in archives?
  - There are 758 available jobs within the profession, but competition for permanent positions is often high.
• What are the most common tasks?
  - Registration, cataloging, digitization, and service to researchers and the public are central tasks.
• Is there opportunity for career development?
  - Yes, with further training and experience, one can advance to roles such as archivist or digitalization manager.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries in the profession?
  - The highest salary is 32,400 SEK and the lowest is 26,800 SEK, depending on education, sector, and experience.