Superintendent

What does a Deputy Guardian do? – Tasks and work environment

A Deputy Guardian in Sweden is responsible for overseeing legal representatives, administrators, and guardians. The work involves ensuring that individuals who cannot manage their financial and personal affairs receive the support and legal security they need. The Deputy Guardian reviews reports, investigates reports of misconduct, and makes decisions in cases related to property sales or asset placement. The work environment is usually office-based, with a fast pace and demands for accuracy, discretion, and legal expertise. The work is carried out in close cooperation with courts, social services, and other authorities, which requires strong collaboration skills and integrity.

Salary development over time

The salary for a Deputy Guardian has shown stable and positive growth in recent 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 represents a total increase of approximately 7.6% over three years, slightly above the average for similar administrative professions. This salary increase can partly be explained by increased demand for qualified lawyers and administrators in the public sector, as well as a growing need for oversight functions due to an aging population and more complex case management. Despite regional variations, the profession has generally experienced steady salary growth, with good opportunities for salary improvements through further education and increased experience.

Deputy Guardian salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 46 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,200 SEK/month (female, government sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 60,200 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, doctoral degree)
• Hourly wage: 280 SEK
• Men's average salary: 48 800 SEK
• Women's average salary: 45 300 SEK (93% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on municipality and labor market demand, especially in metropolitan areas and larger municipalities.

Education and qualifications

To work as a Deputy Guardian, a university degree in law is usually required, often with a law degree as a foundation. Many employers also value experience from public administration or other authority work, as well as good knowledge of legislation related to guardianship and trusteeship. Practical experience is highly regarded, and specialized courses in family law or administrative law can be advantageous.

• Formal education: Law degree (4.5 years)
• Certifications/courses: Additional training in family law, administrative law, or public law
• Internship/experience: Experience from public administration or authority work is often a requirement
• Prerequisites: University eligibility and good command of Swedish
• Tips for selection: Voluntary work as a legal representative or volunteer provides valuable insight

Common benefits and allowances

In addition to the base salary, benefits such as occupational pension, flexible hours, wellness contributions, and remote work options are often offered. Some employers also provide professional development, subsidized lunches, and extra vacation days, especially within municipal and state sectors. Compensation for overtime and on-call work may also be available depending on the organization.

Competition and challenges

The competition for Deputy Guardian positions is moderate, with approximately 758 available jobs within the planning and investigation professions. Nationally, the labor market is balanced, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over five years. One of the main challenges is staying updated with legislative changes and case law, while managing high workloads and complex cases. The role requires resilience, the ability to handle confidential information, and making independent decisions under pressure.

Tips for those interested in becoming a Deputy Guardian

To succeed as a Deputy Guardian, combining legal expertise with a genuine interest in people's rights and needs is beneficial. Attention to detail is essential, as the work involves reviewing and assessing case details accurately. The ability to make independent decisions is important, as many issues lack simple answers and require integrity. Communication skills are central – explaining complex legal matters clearly and engaging with people in vulnerable situations are significant parts of the job. Staying updated on legislative changes and building a network within public administration provide good opportunities for development. Flexibility and resilience during busy periods, along with a professional attitude, help manage ethical dilemmas effectively.

Key facts about Deputy Guardians

• Education level: Law degree (4.5 years)
• Work environment: Office-based, often within municipal or state sectors
• Work form: Full-time, sometimes remote options available
• Demand: Moderate, with 758 available jobs in the profession
• Special skills: Family law, administrative law, authority work

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a Deputy Guardian, opportunities open to advance to chief Deputy Guardian, unit manager, or other leadership roles within municipal administration. Experience in the role can also lead to specialist positions in family law, oversight, or legal investigations. The forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that demand for planners and investigators, including Deputy Guardians, is expected to remain stable over the next five years. Nationwide, the labor market is balanced, meaning there is neither a shortage nor an oversupply of skills. Those seeking further development can also choose to specialize in related areas such as trusteeship, social law, or work as consultants in the public sector.

Frequently asked questions about Deputy Guardians

• What does a Deputy Guardian earn?
  - The average salary is 46 500 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, education, and sector.
• Is a law degree required to become a Deputy Guardian?
  - Most employers require a law degree, but sometimes other relevant university education and experience from public administration are sufficient.
• Are there gender differences in salaries for Deputy Guardians?
  - Yes, women earn on average 45 300 SEK (93% of men's salary), while men earn 48 800 SEK.
• What are the future prospects for Deputy Guardians?
  - Demand is moderate and expected to remain unchanged over five years according to the Employment Service's forecast.
• What are the most common job tasks?
  - Supervision of legal representatives, review of reports, decision-making, and case handling related to guardianship and trusteeship.
• What is required to earn a high salary as a Deputy Guardian?
  - Higher education, extensive experience, and work within the municipal sector often contribute to higher salaries.
• Can one work part-time or remotely as a Deputy Guardian?
  - Full-time work is most common, but some workplaces offer flexible solutions and remote work options.