Surveillance clerk

What does a surveillance officer do? – Tasks and work environment

A surveillance officer primarily works with administrative and coordinating tasks within, for example, the public sector, security companies, or larger organizations. The role involves overseeing security systems, handling incoming alarms, documenting incidents, and assisting with reporting during emergencies. The work environment is often office-based and may involve shift work, especially in operations with 24/7 monitoring. A high level of accuracy, stress resistance, and integrity is required, as the work often involves sensitive information and quick decision-making in urgent situations.

Salary development over time

The salary for surveillance officers has shown steady and clear growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,000 SEK per month, which increased to 34 300 SEK in 2023 and further to 35 600 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 7.9% over three years. The trend reflects an increased demand for administrative skills and digital surveillance, while the job market for the profession remains balanced. Salaries are also influenced by factors such as education level and experience, where further training and specialization can lead to additional salary growth. Despite the positive development, demand for the profession is expected to decrease somewhat in the future, which may impact salary potential in the long term.

Surveillance officer salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 35 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,100 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 54,200 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 214 SEK
• Women earn: 99% of men's salary (35 500 SEK compared to 35 900 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on the workplace and region, with larger differences mainly between public and private sectors and education level.

Education and qualifications

To work as a surveillance officer, a high school education is generally required, preferably with an administrative or security focus. Many employers also require specific courses in security, documentation, or IT systems, depending on the needs of the workplace. Practical experience from similar roles is advantageous, and some employers offer internal training programs or orientations. The ability to handle stress and work systematically is crucial for success in the role.

• High school education: For example, the economics program or social sciences program
• Courses in security or administration: Often advantageous
• Internship or trainee: Common at larger workplaces
• IT skills: Skills in documentation and surveillance systems are required
• Experience: Previous work in similar administrative roles is a plus

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for surveillance officers include wellness allowances, occupational pension, subsidized lunch or staff discounts, and the possibility of flexible working hours and holiday pay. In some cases, additional pay for unsociable hours and shift work may also be offered, especially in larger organizations or public sector employment.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a surveillance officer is relatively balanced, but demand is expected to decrease over time as automation and digitalization of administrative processes increase. A challenge is to stay updated on new IT systems and working methods, as well as meeting high demands for accuracy and confidentiality. Since the role often involves working under time pressure, good stress resistance and the ability to prioritize tasks quickly are essential. The development of the profession is also influenced by changes in the labor market for office assistants and secretaries overall.

Tips for those who want to become a surveillance officer

To succeed as a surveillance officer, it is good to develop both accuracy and stress resistance—two qualities central to the profession. Gaining early experience with administrative tasks, such as through internships or summer jobs, increases chances of employment. Good communication skills are important, especially for reporting and contact with other departments. Being technically interested and able to quickly learn new systems provides a clear advantage, as digital tools are becoming increasingly important. Flexibility and good teamwork skills facilitate working in an environment where tasks can vary from day to day. Demonstrating responsibility and being reliable when handling sensitive information are crucial for building trust with employers. Finally, it is wise to stay updated on industry changes and be open to further training.

Key facts about Surveillance Officer

• Salary range: 27,100–54,200 SEK/month
• Education level: High school education, often with an administrative or security focus
• Work environment: Office-based, sometimes shift work
• Gender differences: Women earn 99% of what men do
• Demand: Moderate, but decreasing over 5 years

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience as a surveillance officer, opportunities open up for more qualified administrative roles, such as coordinator, supervisor, or security officer. Further education in administration, security, or IT can also pave the way for specialized roles within the organization. According to the Employment Service's forecast, the job market for office assistants and secretaries is currently balanced, but demand is expected to decline over the coming five years. Digitalization and efficiency improvements in administrative processes contribute to this trend. Nonetheless, there are currently a significant number of available positions within the profession, indicating continued good opportunities for those who are flexible and willing to develop within the field.

Frequently asked questions about Surveillance Officer

• What does a surveillance officer earn?
  - The average salary for a surveillance officer is 35 600 SEK per month.
• How do salary differences between women and men look?
  - Women earn 99% of men's salaries in the profession, with 35 500 SEK for women and 35 900 SEK for men.
• What education is required to become a surveillance officer?
  - High school education with an administrative or security focus is most common, sometimes supplemented with courses or internships.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The job market is balanced but demand is expected to decrease over five years according to the Employment Service.
• What benefits are often offered?
  - Common benefits include wellness allowances, occupational pension, subsidized lunch, and sometimes overtime pay.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Salary levels may vary depending on the workplace and region, with larger differences mainly between public and private sectors.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a surveillance officer?
  - The highest salary is 54 200 SEK and the lowest is 27 100 SEK per month.