Women on call

What does a Kvinnojourarbetare do? – Tasks and work environment

A Kvinnojourarbetare works to provide support, counseling, and protection to women and children who have been exposed to violence or threats in close relationships. The profession often involves meeting people in crisis, offering conversations, practical help, and guidance on social and legal issues. Work is typically carried out in non-profit organizations, municipal services, or protected accommodations, where on-call duties and readiness may be included. The work environment is often varied and can be both mentally demanding and rewarding, with close contact with clients and collaboration with authorities and other actors.

Salary development over time

The salary for Kvinnojourarbetare has shown a clear upward trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,200 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 34 800 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 36 100 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 8.7% over the three-year period. This salary development can partly be explained by an increased focus on gender equality issues, skill requirements, and a growing demand for qualified staff within women’s shelters. The trend also reflects societal development, where support measures for victims of violence have become increasingly important, affecting both status and salary levels for the profession.

Kvinnojourarbetare salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 36 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,800 SEK/month (woman, public sector)
• Highest salary: 41,500 SEK/month (woman, municipal sector, research education)
• Highest salary for men: 39,200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary for men: 32,400 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 217 SEK
• Women: 35 900 SEK/month
• Men: 36 500 SEK/month
• Women earn: 98% of what men do
• Regional differences: Data varies, but metropolitan areas tend to have somewhat higher salaries.

Education and qualifications

To work as a Kvinnojourarbetare, a post-secondary education in social work, behavioral sciences, or similar fields is usually required. Many employers seek experience working with vulnerable groups or specific training related to violence in close relationships. Practical experience and personal suitability are often highly valued, and some shelters offer internal training programs for new staff.

• Formal education: Social Worker Program or equivalent (3–3.5 years)
• Courses/certifications: Training in violence in close relationships, counseling methods, crisis management
• Internship: Internship at women’s shelter, protected accommodation, or social services is recommended
• Prerequisites: High school diploma, often with focus on society or healthcare
• Self-study/continuing education: Possible through online courses and seminars

Common benefits and compensations

Kvinnojourarbetare are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and opportunities for skills development. Some employers provide supervision, extra vacation days, and support for further education. In the non-profit sector, salary benefits can be combined with opportunities to influence and develop within the organization.

Challenges and competition

The job market for Kvinnojourarbetare is characterized by balance, where the number of available positions matches the number of qualified applicants. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, demand for the profession is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Challenges include high emotional demands, risk of secondary trauma, and sometimes insecure employment conditions in the non-profit sector. At the same time, the work offers great opportunities to make a real difference for vulnerable individuals and contribute to a more equal society.

Tips for those who want to become a Kvinnojourarbetare

To succeed as a Kvinnojourarbetare, it is beneficial to combine strong empathy with a professional approach. Developing good communication skills facilitates collaboration with clients and colleagues, while the ability to handle stress and demanding situations is crucial. Precision and integrity are needed to manage sensitive information and make correct decisions under pressure. Flexibility and openness to further training increase the chances of meeting new demands within the profession, and a genuine commitment to social justice often provides extra motivation in daily work. Building networks and taking advantage of internship or volunteer opportunities is recommended to gain relevant experience.

Key facts about Kvinnojourarbetare

• Education level: Post-secondary education in social work usually
• Work environment: Non-profit or municipal sector, often in protected accommodations
• Work form: Shift work and on-call duties may be included
• Demand: Moderate nationwide, 237 available jobs within the profession
• Special skills: Competence in violence in close relationships and crisis management

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a Kvinnojourarbetare, there are opportunities to advance to coordinator, operations manager, or specialized roles such as training and advocacy. Some choose to further their education to become a social worker or social educator, which can lead to work within social services or government agencies. The Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast indicates that the opportunities within the profession are moderate, with demand expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. With currently 237 available jobs, experience and further education are highly valued for accessing more qualified positions and broader responsibilities.

Frequently asked questions about Kvinnojourarbetare

• What does a Kvinnojourarbetare earn?
  - A Kvinnojourarbetare has an average monthly salary of 36 100 SEK. The salary range usually falls between 31,800 and 41,500 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 35 900 SEK while men earn 36 500 SEK, which means women earn approximately 98% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What education is required to become a Kvinnojourarbetare?
  - Most commonly, a post-secondary education in social work, such as the Social Worker Program, along with courses and experience related to violence in close relationships.
• What is the job market like for Kvinnojourarbetare?
  - The job market is considered balanced with moderate opportunities for employment and approximately 237 available positions within the profession.
• What personal qualities are important in this profession?
  - Empathy, resilience to stress, communication skills, and integrity are central qualities for thriving and succeeding as a Kvinnojourarbetare.
• Are there opportunities for further education?
  - Yes, many employers offer continuing education, and there are good opportunities to further train in social work or crisis management.