Order controller

What does an order controller do? – Tasks and work environment

An order controller is responsible for managing and monitoring order flows within a company, with a particular focus on ensuring accurate deliveries, follow-up on orders, and administration of related documentation. The work often involves contact with both suppliers and customers, where accuracy and a structured approach are crucial. The work environment is usually office-based but can also include some presence in warehouse or production environments depending on the company's operations. Digital order management systems and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems are used daily, requiring good IT skills and communication abilities.

Salary development over time

The salary of an order controller has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 35,700 SEK, increasing to 36 900 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen to 37 900 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 6 percent over three years. This positive trend can be linked to increased demand for qualified purchasing and order functions as companies digitize their processes and logistics flows become more complex. At the same time, skill requirements have increased, which may also explain the gradual rise in wages for the profession. The market is also influenced by regional competition and company size, with larger employers often offering slightly higher salaries and more career opportunities.

Order controller salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 37 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,400 SEK/month (male), 32,200 SEK/month (female)
• Highest salary: 41,000 SEK/month (male), 41,800 SEK/month (female)
• Hourly wage (average): 228 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 94% of what men do (men: 39 500 SEK, women: 37 100 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and employer, but exact amounts vary and are influenced by local demand.

Education and qualifications

To work as an order controller, a high school diploma is usually required, preferably with a focus on economics, trade, or administration. Many employers also appreciate experience in logistics, purchasing, or order management. Additional merit is given to knowledge of modern business systems and strong communication skills, both oral and written. It is possible to supplement with short courses or certifications in logistics and administration.

• High school diploma: Economics, trade, or administration (3 years)
• Post-secondary courses: Purchasing, logistics, or order management
• Certifications: Examples include business systems or logistics certifications
• Internship: Meritorious experience in warehousing, purchasing, or administration
• IT skills: Good familiarity with business systems and Excel

Common benefits and compensation

Order controllers are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, subsidized lunches, pension schemes, and flexible working hours. In some cases, performance-based bonuses or company profit-sharing are also included, along with discounts on company products and sometimes educational support for skills development.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as an order controller varies depending on region and industry. Larger cities and employers may have fiercer competition, while smaller towns might have fewer applicants per position. A challenge is that the tasks require high accuracy and the ability to handle multiple processes simultaneously without losing overview. Digitalization of order flows also demands ongoing skills development, especially in business systems and data management. The industry attracts people who enjoy administrative tasks and a fast-paced work environment, but there is also a risk of stress during peak order periods.

Tips for aspiring order controllers

To succeed as an order controller, it is beneficial to have both organizational skills and good communication abilities. Developing a strong attention to detail helps minimize errors in order flows, while analytical skills make it easier to identify discrepancies and suggest improvements. Flexibility is important as workloads can vary, and prioritizing effectively is crucial to meet deadlines. Being technically interested and quick to learn new systems and routines is also advantageous. Showing initiative and willingness to collaborate with other departments provides good opportunities for development and is often appreciated by employers. Finally, a service-oriented attitude is central, as the role involves significant contact with both internal and external stakeholders.

Key facts about Order Controller

• Education level: High school diploma, often with an economic or administrative focus
• Work environment: Office setting, sometimes with elements of warehousing and logistics
• Work arrangement: Full-time or hourly employment, typically daytime hours
• Demand: Approximately 550 job openings in the profession
• Special skills: IT and business systems, logistics understanding

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years as an order controller, there are opportunities to advance into more senior roles within purchasing, supply chain management, or logistics leadership. Further education or experience can also lead to positions such as purchasing coordinator, logistics manager, or administrative director. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts for the purchasing and order assistant profession, no precise outlook can be made due to limited data, but there is a steady supply of available positions and continued demand is expected in both private and public sectors. The increasing digitalization and the need for efficient order management ensure that the role remains important in many organizations.

Frequently asked questions about Order Controller

• What does an order controller earn?
  - The average salary is 37 900 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, gender, and region.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 94% of what men do in the profession.
• What education is required to become an order controller?
  - High school education with a focus on economics, trade, or administration is usually sufficient.
• What does the job market look like for order controllers?
  - There are about 550 job openings in the profession, and demand is stable.
• What development opportunities are available within the profession?
  - Opportunities for career advancement within purchasing, logistics, or administrative management after a few years of experience.
• What is the work environment like?
  - Work is mainly in offices, sometimes with elements of warehousing and contact with other departments.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for an order controller?
  - Highest salary: 41,800 SEK (female, private sector), lowest salary: 31,400 SEK (male, private sector employee).