PA consultant

What does a PA consultant do? – Tasks and work environment

A PA consultant, or personnel administrative consultant, works to support organizations in matters related to personnel, the work environment, and HR processes. Common tasks include recruitment, skills development, employment law, salary management, and advising managers and employees. The work is often carried out in close collaboration with management and other departments to ensure that the company's personnel strategies are effective and up-to-date. The environment is usually office-based, but many PA consultants also work on-site at clients or remotely, depending on the nature of the assignment and the employer's needs.

Salary development over time

The salary for PA consultants has shown a clear positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,000 SEK per month, which increased to 47 600 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has further strengthened to 49 900 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 8.5% over three years. This salary development reflects a continued high demand for qualified HR and personnel specialists, driven by digitization, employment law requirements, and changing labor market needs, increasing the value of specialist skills. Gender differences persist, but the overall trend indicates good opportunities for salary increases for those who develop their skills and take on more qualified assignments.

PA consultant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 49 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 40,500 SEK/month (female, public sector, upper secondary education)
• Highest salary: 58,600 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage: 300 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 49 100 SEK/month, men 52 900 SEK/month (women 93% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salaries vary slightly between metropolitan and rural areas, generally higher in city regions.

Education and qualifications

To work as a PA consultant, a post-secondary education in personnel, working life, or HR is usually required, often at the bachelor’s or master’s level. Many employers also value experience with HR systems, employment law, and advising on personnel issues. Internships during studies and further education in areas like work environment or employment law can be advantageous.

• Formal degree: Bachelor's degree in personnel management/HR (3 years), sometimes master's (1–2 years more)
• Certifications: Courses in employment law, payroll systems, or work environment
• Internship: Highly recommended during or after studies
• Prerequisites: Often secondary education, preferably with a social sciences focus
• Tips for choosing: Select programs with practical components and industry contacts

Common benefits and compensations

PA consultants are often offered generous benefits beyond their base salary, such as wellness allowances, extra vacation days, occupational pensions, and opportunities for skills development. Flexible working hours and remote work options are also common, especially with larger employers and consulting firms.

Competition and challenges

The competition for roles as a PA consultant is moderate, with a balance between supply and demand in the labor market. Major challenges include staying updated on legislation, digital HR tools, and quickly adapting to changing working conditions and organizational structures. Since the profession often involves advising in complex personnel situations, high demands are placed on integrity, the ability to handle sensitive information, and building trust with management and employees. Changing labor market regulations and increased digitalization also create a constant need for skills development.

Tips for those who want to become a PA consultant

To succeed as a PA consultant, it is good to be communicative and attentive, as the role involves daily contact with both managers and employees. An analytical ability is important for interpreting laws and regulations quickly and providing advice on difficult personnel issues. Being organized helps manage many parallel cases and keep track of documentation. Flexibility is key, as tasks can vary greatly from day to day. Building networks and staying updated on industry trends give advantages, while maintaining a professional attitude and discretion are crucial for handling sensitive issues and gaining trust within the organization.

Key facts about PA consultants

• Education level: Bachelor's degree in personnel management/HR
• Work environment: Office, often with remote work options
• Demand: Moderate, approximately 758 job openings within the profession
• Work form: Consulting assignments, permanent employment, or project-based
• Special skills: Employment law, HR systems, advising

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a PA consultant, opportunities open for more senior roles such as HR specialist, HR manager, or consulting manager within personnel. Some choose to further specialize in areas like employment law, recruitment, or organizational development. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast for HR specialists, the labor market is expected to be balanced with moderate opportunities for employment, and demand is forecasted to remain unchanged over the next five years. Driven individuals who continue to develop their skills have good prospects for advancement or expanding their responsibilities within both private and public sectors.

Frequently asked questions about PA consultants

• What does a PA consultant earn?
  - The average salary for a PA consultant is 49 900 SEK per month, with top salaries up to 58,600 SEK.
• How do the differences between women and men look?
  - Men earn on average 52 900 SEK, while women earn 49 100 SEK, which means women earn 93% of men's salary.
• What education is required to become a PA consultant?
  - Usually, a bachelor's degree in personnel management or HR, along with practical HR experience.
• What are the job responsibilities of a PA consultant?
  - Tasks include recruitment, advising, employment law, salary management, and development of HR processes.
• What are the future prospects for PA consultants?
  - Demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with a balance between supply and demand.
• What benefits are usually offered?
  - Common benefits include wellness allowances, extra vacation days, occupational pension, and remote work options.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries are generally somewhat higher in metropolitan regions compared to rural areas.