Lecturer, high school

What does a Lecturer in upper secondary school do? – Tasks and work environment

A lecturer in upper secondary school is responsible for teaching at an advanced level within their subject area, often combined with development work and mentoring colleagues. Tasks include planning, conducting, and evaluating lessons, assessing student performance, and participating in the school's pedagogical development. Lecturers typically hold a leading role in their subject team and are expected to contribute to the school's quality work. The work environment is characterized by high demands on subject expertise, collaboration, and continuous professional development, with contact with both students and colleagues being central.

Salary development over time

The salary of a lecturer in upper secondary school has shown a clear increase in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 40100 SEK per month, which increased to 41 400 SEK in 2023. The latest data for 2024 shows an average salary of 42 700 SEK per month. This represents a total increase of approximately 6.5% over three years. This positive trend reflects both a growing demand for qualified teachers and an increasing focus on education quality and teacher professional development. The market's need for qualified and experienced lecturers, especially in certain subject areas, has contributed to slightly higher salary levels compared to basic teaching positions.

Lecturer in upper secondary school salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 42 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 32,400 SEK/month (female, private sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 48,400 SEK/month (female, public sector, doctoral studies)
• Highest salary (male): 47,000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (male): 34,700 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 257 SEK
• Gender comparison: Women earn as much as men

Education and qualifications

To work as a lecturer in upper secondary school, deep subject knowledge combined with pedagogical training is required. Usually, a teaching degree at an advanced level and documented scientific competence, often in the form of a bachelor's or master's degree, are necessary. Many lecturers also have research experience or advanced studies within their subject area.

• Teaching degree: At least a master's degree (5 years) in a relevant subject area
• Qualification requirements: Teaching degree and certification with subject competence for upper secondary school
• Research experience: Meritorious, especially for roles with development or mentoring responsibilities
• Pedagogical skills: Documented experience of teaching at the upper secondary level
• Additional training: Courses in didactics or leadership can be advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Lecturers in upper secondary school are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, professional development, and opportunities for vacation pay conversion. Many employers also provide subsidized lunches, work clothing, and options for remote work for administrative tasks. In some cases, research or development time may also be included as part of the employment.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a lecturer in upper secondary school is generally moderate but varies depending on subject area and location. Certain subjects, especially mathematics, science, and modern languages, have greater demand for qualified teachers, which can lead to better employment opportunities. At the same time, high demands are placed on both subject matter and pedagogical competence, making the selection process demanding. Challenges may also arise from workload, changing curricula, and the need to continuously develop teaching to meet new requirements and digitalization.

Tips for those who want to become a lecturer in upper secondary school

To succeed as a lecturer, it is important to have solid subject knowledge and a strong interest in teaching. Engagement and curiosity help keep lessons relevant and inspiring, while good collaboration skills facilitate teamwork with colleagues and school management. Being organized and meticulous creates security for students and contributes to high-quality teaching. Flexibility and the ability to adapt to changes are important traits, especially when curricula or working methods are updated. It is also valuable to actively seek opportunities for further training and to build networks within your subject area. Pedagogical skills develop over time, so patience and a willingness to reflect on your teaching are crucial for long-term success. Lastly, the ability to inspire and support both students and colleagues in their development is an advantage.

Key facts about Lecturer in upper secondary school

• Education level: At least a master's degree and teaching certification
• Work environment: School environment with high demands on subject knowledge and pedagogy
• Work form: Full-time, often with opportunities for research/development
• Demand: Moderate, approximately 434 job openings nationwide
• Gender differences: No salary difference between women and men

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a lecturer in upper secondary school, there are opportunities to take on expanded responsibilities, such as subject coordinator, lead teacher, or development leader. Some lecturers choose to advance to roles within school management or pedagogical development at the administrative level. The forecast from the Employment Service indicates that job opportunities are moderate and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. A total of 434 job openings were reported in the latest survey, indicating a stable job market. Regional differences may occur depending on subject combination and school size, but overall, supply and demand are balanced.

Frequently asked questions about Lecturer in upper secondary school

• What is the salary of a Lecturer, upper secondary school?
  - The average salary is 42 700 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 257 SEK.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - No, women and men earn the same within this profession.
• What education is required to become a lecturer in upper secondary school?
  - At least a master's degree and a teaching certification with subject competence are required.
• What are the future prospects for lecturers?
  - Demand is moderate and expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What is the highest salary for a lecturer in upper secondary school?
  - The highest salary is 48,400 SEK per month for a woman with doctoral studies within the public sector.
• What benefits are common for lecturers?
  - Occupational pension, wellness allowance, and professional development are common benefits.
• How many job openings are there for lecturers in upper secondary school?
  - There are approximately 434 job openings within the profession of upper secondary school teachers.