What does a Warehouse Administrator do? – Tasks and work environment
A warehouse administrator is responsible for the daily operations and logistics at warehouses and terminals. Tasks include receiving and registering goods, inventory, order picking, transport bookings, and handling returns and complaints. The role requires accuracy, good organizational skills, and experience working with various IT and business systems. The work environment is often characterized by a high pace, many contact points, and close collaboration with internal colleagues and external suppliers. Warehouse administrators typically work at larger warehouse centers, distribution companies, or within industry, where they play a key role in ensuring efficient material handling and logistics flow.
Salary development over time
The salary of a warehouse administrator has steadily increased over recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,000 SEK per month, increasing to 32 100 SEK in 2023. The latest recorded average salary for 2024 is 33 400 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 7.7 % over the period. The salary growth can be explained by increased focus on warehouse optimization, digitalization, and higher demands for competence in logistics and IT. Although demand for experienced warehouse administrators has been relatively stable, salary increases have mainly been driven by general market adjustments and inflation rather than a severe labor shortage. There are also indications that employers value specialized experience and postgraduate education higher, which can contribute to higher salary levels for some individuals.
Warehouse Administrator salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 33 400 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 25,900 SEK/month (male, public sector, pre-secondary education)
- Highest salary: 35,500 SEK/month (female, private sector, postgraduate education 3+ years)
- Hourly wage: 201 SEK
- Gender differences: Men earn 33 600 SEK, women 32 700 SEK (women 97 % of men's salary)
- Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on region and sector, with higher wages in metropolitan areas and certain private companies.
Education and qualifications
The path to becoming a warehouse administrator usually involves high school education in logistics, commerce, or economics. Many employers require experience from warehouse work and good IT skills, especially within business systems and digital warehouse management. Internships, certification courses, and internal training are common, and for some roles, postgraduate studies in logistics or supply chain management are advantageous.
- High school: Business and administration programs, or equivalent with a focus on logistics
- Post-secondary courses: Logistics, supply chain, warehouse management (folk high schools, YH, or university)
- Certifications: Forklift license, occupational safety training, safety courses
- Internships: Common as part of education or employment
- IT skills: Experience with business systems and digital warehouse management
Many warehouse administrators quickly develop a deep understanding of the company's entire logistics flow, making them key figures during changes and process development. It is not uncommon for warehouse administrators to participate in improvement projects or assume leadership roles in digitalization efforts.
Common benefits and compensations
Benefits for warehouse administrators often include wellness allowances, subsidized lunch or staff cafeteria, collective pension and insurance, as well as options for flexible hours or shift work. Some employers also offer bonus schemes, training grants, and staff discounts, especially at larger companies and within the private sector.
Competition and challenges
The job market for warehouse administrators is currently characterized by relatively low competition, with an oversupply of applicants according to the Swedish Public Employment Service. Demand for this role is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, which may make it more difficult to secure employment without the right education or experience. Digitalization of warehouse processes also raises higher demands for IT competence and adaptability, and the work environment can be physically demanding with many contacts and rapid changes. To stand out on the job market, it is important to demonstrate strong administrative skills and flexibility.
Tips for those aspiring to become a Warehouse Administrator
To succeed as a warehouse administrator, it is good to be organized and capable of switching quickly between tasks. Developing good communication skills facilitates cooperation with colleagues, suppliers, and transporters. Practical experience in warehouse work or order management is highly valuable and can be gained through part-time jobs, internships, or summer jobs. It is also advantageous to have an interest in technology and to stay updated on new digital tools and business systems. Attention to detail is appreciated by employers, especially during inventory and documentation. Finally, resilience and flexibility are important, as workload can vary greatly, and quick reprioritization may be required during the workday.
Key facts about Warehouse Administrators
- Education level: High school diploma with a focus on logistics or administration
- Typical employment: Full-time, daytime or shift work
- Demand: Limited opportunities nationwide, oversupply of applicants
- Work environment: Warehouses, terminals, and distribution centers with high tempo
- Job vacancies: 412 advertised positions within the profession
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession, a warehouse administrator can advance to roles such as team leader, logistics coordinator, or specialist in warehouse management and process development. Some choose to further their education in supply chain management or logistics, opening doors to more qualified positions in planning, purchasing, or transportation management. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast for the warehousing and terminal personnel group, opportunities for employment are limited, and the recruitment situation is characterized by an oversupply of labor. Demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, which may continue to increase competition for jobs. However, digitalization and automation may create new roles and opportunities for those with the right skills and willingness to develop within the profession.
Frequently asked questions about Warehouse Administrators
- What is the average salary of a Warehouse Administrator?
- A warehouse administrator has an average monthly salary of 33 400 SEK.
- How does gender difference affect Warehouse Administrator salaries?
- Men earn on average 33 600 SEK and women 32 700 SEK, which means women earn approximately 97 % of what men do.
- What are the educational requirements to become a Warehouse Administrator?
- High school education with a focus on logistics, administration, or commerce is most common, often supplemented with relevant internships and IT skills.
- What is the job market like for Warehouse Administrators?
- Opportunities are limited, and there is a surplus of applicants according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
- What are the most common tasks for a Warehouse Administrator?
- Registering goods, inventory, order management, transportation bookings, and customer contact.
- Are there salary differences based on region or sector?
- Yes, salary levels are generally higher in metropolitan areas and within the private sector.
- What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
- Possible paths include team leader, logistics coordinator, or further education in supply chain management.
