What does an organizational secretary in public administration do? – Tasks and work environment
An organizational secretary in public administration works to coordinate, develop, and administer the internal organization within agencies, municipalities, or other public entities. Tasks often include planning and conducting meetings, writing minutes, managing documents, and providing support to management groups and committees. The role may also involve investigation work, communication with various stakeholders, and responsibility for following up on decisions and guidelines. The work environment is usually office-based, with a strong focus on structure, accuracy, and good collaboration skills in a often rule-driven and complex organization.
Salary development over time
The salary for an organizational secretary in public administration has shown stable and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,200 SEK per month, increasing to 44 700 in 2023 and further to 46 500 in 2024. This corresponds to a total salary increase of approximately 7.6% over the three-year period. This development reflects an increased demand for qualified administrators and investigators in the public sector, and the role often requires high education levels and broad competence. Salary increases have also been influenced by collective bargaining within the public sector and an increased focus on administrative support functions as organizations become more complex.
Organizational secretary in public administration salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 46 500 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 30,200 SEK/month (female, government sector, low education)
- Highest salary: 60,200 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, research education)
- Hourly wage (average): 280 SEK
- Women: 45 300 SEK/month
- Men: 48 800 SEK/month
- Women earn: 93% of men's salary
Education and qualifications
To become an organizational secretary in public administration, a university degree in areas such as political science, public administration, law, or economics is usually required. Many employers seek experience from similar administrative roles and good ability to communicate verbally and in writing. Practical experience from the public sector and knowledge of administrative processes and regulations are considered advantageous.
- Bachelor's degree in political science, public administration, law, or economics (3 years)
- Specialized courses in public administration or project management
- Internship or trainee programs within agencies, municipalities, or regions
- Experience in administrative work in the public sector
- Good knowledge of Swedish language in both speech and writing
Many organizational secretaries get the opportunity to work closely with management teams and political decision-makers, providing a unique insight into the decision-making processes and strategic work of the public sector. This can be valuable for those who want to build networks and eventually move on to other qualified roles within the public sector.
Common benefits and compensations
Organizational secretaries in public administration are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, flexitime, wellness allowances, and the possibility of remote work. Other common benefits include generous vacation policies, training and skill development, and subsidized lunches or public transport. Employers may also offer insurance and support for further education.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as an organizational secretary in public administration is assessed as moderate, and the recruitment situation is balanced nationwide. This means there is neither an oversupply nor a shortage of qualified candidates. Challenges in the profession often involve navigating between different stakeholders, managing complex regulations, and working on multiple processes simultaneously. Those who wish to establish themselves in the profession often need to combine theoretical knowledge with practical experience and a good understanding of public decision-making processes. Changes in political priorities and digitalization can also influence the work content and require ongoing skills development.
Tips for aspiring organizational secretaries in public administration
To succeed as an organizational secretary in public administration, it is beneficial to have a strong sense of structure and order, which helps manage administrative tasks efficiently. Communication skills are crucial, both for expressing oneself clearly in writing and collaborating with colleagues and external contacts. It is also important to be solution-oriented and flexible, as tasks can vary and the pace can be high. Attention to detail ensures accurate protocols and documentation. Finally, having a genuine interest in public activities and societal issues provides motivation and understanding of the larger purpose of the work.
Key facts about organizational secretaries in public administration
- Average salary: 46 500 SEK/month
- Salary range: 30,200–60,200 SEK/month
- Education level: Bachelor's degree in social sciences, law, or economics
- Work environment: Office-based, often in agencies or municipalities
- Job openings in the profession: 758
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as an organizational secretary in public administration, there are good opportunities to advance to more qualified roles such as investigator, operations controller, secretary-general, or administrative manager. Many also choose to specialize in project management or change management. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that the future outlook is moderate, with a balanced job market and unchanged demand over five years. Those who continue to develop their skills and build networks within the public sector generally have good prospects for continued career development within the field.
Frequently asked questions about organizational secretaries in public administration
- What does an organizational secretary in public administration earn?
- The average salary is 46 500 SEK per month, but it varies depending on experience, education, and sector.
- What education is required to become an organizational secretary?
- Usually, a bachelor's degree in political science, public administration, law, or economics.
- What are the gender differences in salary?
- Women earn on average 93% of what men do in the profession.
- What tasks does an organizational secretary have?
- Coordination, protocol writing, document management, and support to management groups or committees.
- What are the future prospects for the profession?
- The forecast indicates that demand will remain unchanged over the next five years, and the recruitment situation is balanced.
- Are there opportunities for further education?
- Yes, many employers encourage skill development and further education within public administration.
