Cultural curator, public administration

What does a kulturintendent in public administration do? – Tasks and work environment

A kulturintendent in public administration is responsible for planning, developing, and leading activities within the cultural sector, often focusing on museums, archives, libraries, or cultural projects within municipalities, regions, or the state. Tasks include strategic work on cultural policy, budget management, exhibition production, collection management, and collaboration with external actors such as schools, associations, and businesses. The role requires strong leadership skills, the ability to manage projects from idea to implementation, and insight into both cultural heritage issues and contemporary art and cultural life. The work environment is often varied and may include both office work and on-site activities at cultural institutions, with high demands on teamwork and flexibility.

Salary development over time

The salary for a kulturintendent in public administration has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,200 SEK, rising to 44 700 SEK in 2023 and reaching 46 500 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to an increase of approximately 7.6% over the period. The salary increase can be linked to increased competition for qualified personnel, higher demands for education and experience, and a greater focus on the cultural sector's role in society. Despite steady growth, salary levels remain influenced by factors such as work location, educational background, and employer size, with larger municipalities and regions often offering higher salaries than smaller organizations.

Kulturintendent in public administration salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 46 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,200 SEK/month (female, government sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 60,200 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, doctoral degree)
• Hourly wage (average): 280 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn on average 45 300 SEK, men 48 800 SEK (women 93% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salaries tend to be higher in metropolitan regions and larger municipalities

Education and qualifications

To work as a kulturintendent in public administration, an academic degree in cultural studies, museology, art history, history, or similar fields is generally required. Many employers seek experience in project management, heritage management, and good knowledge of the public sector. Additional training and specialist courses can be advantageous, as well as internships or trainee positions within cultural institutions.

• Academic degree: Bachelor's (3 years) or master's (5 years) in relevant subjects
• Specialist courses: Museology, heritage management, public administration
• Internship/trainee: Recommended for gaining experience and networks
• Prerequisites: High school diploma with university eligibility
• Additional training: Project management, leadership, digitalization within culture

Common benefits and compensations

Employment conditions for kulturintendents in public administration often include occupational pension, generous vacation policies, wellness allowances, and opportunities for professional development and training. Flexitime and remote work are common, especially in larger organizations, as well as access to subsidized cultural activities and staff support if needed.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a kulturintendent in public administration is significant, especially in attractive regions and larger cities where employers can choose from many qualified applicants. Besides formal qualifications, experience in project management and the ability to work strategically in complex organizations are often required. Budget constraints and political priorities can affect the ability to develop activities, and patience and diplomacy are often needed to navigate between different stakeholders. Digitalization and changing audience behaviors also impose new demands for innovation and adaptability within the profession.

Tips for those who want to become a kulturintendent in public administration

To succeed as a kulturintendent in public administration, it is good to combine analytical skills with a strong commitment to cultural issues. Gaining experience through internships or volunteer work at museums or cultural institutions provides valuable insights and contacts. Flexibility and openness to change are important qualities, as tasks often shift between strategic and operational work. Developing good communication skills facilitates collaboration both internally and externally, while a structured work approach helps manage complex projects. Finally, actively networking in the industry is beneficial, as many positions are filled through recommendations and personal contacts.

Key facts about kulturintendent in public administration

• Education level: Bachelor's or master's in cultural studies or similar
• Work environment: Office and cultural institutions, often project-based
• Typical employment: Permanent, full-time
• Demand: Moderate, approximately 758 job openings in the profession
• Special skills: Project management, heritage management, public administration

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a kulturintendent in public administration, it is common to move on to senior roles such as operations manager, museum director, or strategist within cultural administration. Other career options include expert roles in heritage issues, development leaders for regional or national projects, or advisors in cultural policy. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the demand for planners and investigators, including kulturintendents, is moderate and expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. The recruitment situation is characterized by balance, meaning supply and demand for labor are in equilibrium. However, digitalization, new working methods, and increased demands for collaboration may influence future skill requirements and open new specialist roles in the field.

Common questions about kulturintendent in public administration

• What does a Kulturintendent, public administration, earn?
  - The average salary is 46 500 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What education is required to become a kulturintendent?
  - An academic degree in cultural studies, museology, or similar is often required, preferably supplemented with project management skills.
• What are the gender differences in salaries for the profession?
  - Women earn on average 93% of what men do, with average salaries of 45 300 SEK for women and 48 800 SEK for men.
• Who are the most common employers?
  - Municipalities, regions, government agencies, and larger museums and cultural institutions.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries tend to be higher in major cities and larger municipalities compared to smaller towns.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Possible to advance to managerial roles, strategic positions, or specialist roles within the cultural sector.
• What is the job market like for kulturintendents?
  - The job market is considered balanced with moderate opportunities for employment in the coming years.