Nursing developer

What does a care development officer do? – Tasks and work environment

A care development officer works on developing, quality-assuring, and improving care practices within municipal or regional healthcare. Tasks often include analyzing routines, implementing new methods or guidelines, and conducting staff training initiatives. The role also involves evaluating the effects of changes and ensuring care processes comply with current laws and guidelines. Care development officers work closely with managers and staff and often have an advisory role within the organization. The work environment is generally office-based but includes regular site visits and sometimes supervision at workplaces.

Salary development over time

The salary for care development officers has shown a steady upward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,200 SEK per month, increasing to 44 700 SEK in 2023 and further to 46 500 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to an increase of approximately 7.6% over the period. The trend reflects an increased demand for qualified development roles within the healthcare sector, where skills development and quality improvement have gained greater focus. Changing requirements for education level and work experience have also contributed to this positive salary trend. The job market for the profession is relatively stable, suggesting that salaries are likely to continue developing in line with the healthcare sector's needs for improved processes and increased quality.

Care development officer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 46 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,200 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 60,200 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 280 SEK
• Women: 45 300 SEK/month
• Men: 48 800 SEK/month
• Women earn: 93% of what men do

Education and qualifications

To work as a care development officer, a university degree in healthcare or nursing is generally required, often supplemented with further training in leadership, development work, or quality improvement. Experience from clinical work is highly valued, as is familiarity with project management and change initiatives. Depending on the employer, requirements for doctoral education or specific certifications may also apply.

• Formal degree: Nursing education (3 years) or other healthcare qualification
• Further training: Master’s degree in nursing, leadership, or quality development
• Experience: Several years of clinical experience in healthcare
• Additional courses: Project management, supervision, or change management
• Prerequisites: Licensure within the healthcare profession (e.g., registered nurse)

Common benefits and compensations

Care development officers are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, and flexible working hours. Continuing professional development, opportunities for remote work, and access to work tools and support for further training are also common. Some employers offer extra vacation days or advantageous insurance packages.

Competition and challenges

The profession of care development officer belongs to the group of planners and investigators, where the labor market is characterized by a balance between supply and demand. There are about 758 available jobs nationwide within this profession, indicating good employment opportunities but also competition for the most attractive positions. Challenges in the role include implementing change in organizations with established routines and staying updated on new research findings and legal requirements. The ability to collaborate, communicate, and pedagogically present complex information is crucial for success in the role.

Tips for aspiring care development officers

To succeed as a care development officer, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a genuine interest in development work. Gaining broad experience from various healthcare settings provides valuable insights and enhances understanding of organizational needs. Engagement and perseverance are necessary when implementing changes, while strong communication skills facilitate collaboration at all levels. It is also important to stay updated on new guidelines and research, which requires curiosity and a willingness to learn continuously. A systematic approach and the ability to see both details and the bigger picture help drive quality improvement. Developing leadership qualities and the ability to motivate others are valuable, especially for those aiming to take on greater responsibilities in the future.

Key facts about care development officers

• Salary range: 30,200–60,200 SEK/month
• Average salary: 46 500 SEK/month
• Educational requirements: University degree and further training in healthcare or leadership
• Job market: Moderate opportunities, balanced supply and demand
• Typical work environment: Office with site visits and supervision

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the role, a care development officer can advance to leadership positions such as organizational developer, quality manager, or head of development units within healthcare and social services. There are also opportunities to specialize in areas like patient safety, education, or digitalization of care processes. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that the job market for planners and investigators, including care development officers, is expected to remain unchanged over five years with moderate opportunities for employment. However, demand for qualified development roles is expected to persist, especially within municipal and regional healthcare where quality improvement is prioritized.

Frequently asked questions about care development officers

• What does a care development officer earn?
  - The average salary is 46 500 SEK per month, with a range from 30,200 SEK to 60,200 SEK.
• What education is required to become a care development officer?
  - A university degree in healthcare, often a nursing degree, supplemented with further training in development work or leadership.
• Is there a difference between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, men earn an average of 48 800 SEK and women 45 300 SEK, which means women earn approximately 93% of men's salaries.
• What is the job market like for care development officers?
  - The job market is considered balanced with moderate opportunities, and there are about 758 available jobs in the profession.
• What are the responsibilities of a care development officer?
  - Responsibilities include developing and quality-assuring care, implementing new practices, and training staff.
• What is the highest and lowest salary in the profession?
  - The highest salary is 60,200 SEK and the lowest 30,200 SEK, depending on education, experience, and sector.
• What personal qualities are important in this profession?
  - Analytical ability, communication skills, and capacity to lead change are key qualities.