What does a personal assistant, personnel officer do? – Tasks and work environment
A personal assistant or personnel officer supports and develops the employer's HR functions. Tasks include recruitment, onboarding new employees, salary administration, employment law issues, and advising managers and staff. The role often involves being a central link between management and employees, handling questions about skills development, work environment, and personnel care. The work is typically carried out in offices, both within private companies and public sector, with digital tools and systems for HR administration.
Salary development over time
The salary for personal assistants and personnel officers has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,000 SEK per month, rising to 47 600 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 49 900 SEK, representing an increase of about 8.5% over three years. This positive trend can largely be explained by an increased focus on HR issues, talent acquisition, and work environment in both private and public sectors. At the same time, demand for qualified personnel in the field has led to some competition for experienced candidates, driving up salary levels. Differences between sectors and education levels also influence salary development, with private sector employees with longer education often experiencing better salary growth than those in the public sector with shorter education.
Personal assistant, personnel officer salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 49 900 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 40,500 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school education)
- Highest salary: 58,600 SEK/month (male, private sector, postgraduate education of at least 3 years)
- Highest salary for women: 56,200 SEK/month
- Lowest salary for men: 44,000 SEK/month
- Hourly wage (average): 300 SEK
- Women earn: 49 100 SEK/month (93% of men's salary)
- Men earn: 52 900 SEK/month
Education and qualifications
The path to becoming a personal assistant or personnel officer usually involves postgraduate education in personnel and labor issues, HR, or similar fields. Many employers value practical experience in administration or personnel-related tasks, and relevant internships during studies are often meritorious. The required education level varies, but a bachelor's degree in human resources, behavioral sciences, or economics is common. There are also opportunities to deepen knowledge through courses in employment law, negotiation techniques, or salary administration.
- Bachelor's degree in human resources, HR, or similar (3 years)
- Specialized courses in employment law, negotiation, salary management
- Internships or trainee programs during or after studies
- High school education with a focus on administration can suffice for simpler roles
- Certifications and online courses for skill development
Digitalization has significantly changed the profession – today, familiarity with HR systems, recruitment tools, and digital communication is required. The ability to quickly learn new tools is a clear competitive advantage for personal assistants or personnel officers.
Common benefits and compensations
Personal assistants and personnel officers are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, remote work options, and occupational pensions. Other common compensations include extra vacation days, training grants, and subsidized lunches or staff discounts. The extent of benefits varies between employers and sectors.
Competition and challenges
The profession as a personal assistant or personnel officer is characterized by moderate competition and a balanced labor market, according to the Swedish Public Employment Service. Challenges often involve staying updated on employment law and digital tools, as well as managing a high pace during recruitment periods or change processes. Large employers often seek experience and specialized skills, while smaller organizations may offer broader tasks but lower salaries. The ability to collaborate, communicate, and handle sensitive personnel issues is crucial for success in the role.
Tips for those aspiring to become a personal assistant, personnel officer
To succeed as a personal assistant or personnel officer, it is good to have analytical skills, as the work often involves interpreting laws and agreements and making careful assessments. A structured approach facilitates daily work, especially in handling salary processes and personnel administration. Being communicative and attentive is valuable for supporting managers and staff in various matters. Networking early in your career and taking internships or summer jobs in HR can help build experience. Stay updated on digital HR tools and labor market trends, as technical skills are increasingly in demand. Flexibility and problem-solving skills help during rapid organizational changes. Finally, it is important to demonstrate integrity and handle confidential information responsibly.
Key facts about personal assistant, personnel officer
- Salary range: 40,500–58,600 SEK/month
- Education level: Most commonly a bachelor's degree in HR/personnel (3 years)
- Work environment: Office-based, often flexible hours and remote options
- Share of women: Women constitute the majority in the profession
- Vacancies: 758 advertised positions nationwide (2024)
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession, a personal assistant or personnel officer can progress to roles such as HR specialist, recruiter, HR partner, or HR manager. There are also opportunities to specialize in employment law, work environment issues, or talent development. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, job opportunities are moderate, and the labor market is in balance, with unchanged demand over the next five years. Currently, there are 758 available jobs within the group, indicating continued good prospects for qualified candidates. Regional variations may occur, with larger cities and growth regions often offering more positions and slightly higher salaries.
Common questions about personal assistant, personnel officer
- What does a personal assistant, personnel officer earn?
- The average salary is 49 900 SEK per month, with a range between 40,500 SEK and 58,600 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, men earn an average of 52 900 SEK and women 49 100 SEK, which means women earn 93% of what men do.
- What is required to work as a personal assistant, personnel officer?
- A bachelor's degree in human resources, HR, or similar is most common, but there are also simpler roles for high school graduates.
- What are the future prospects?
- The labor market is considered balanced with moderate job opportunities and unchanged demand over the next five years.
- What tasks does a personal assistant have?
- Tasks include recruitment, salary administration, employment law issues, and support for managers and staff.
- What are the career opportunities?
- There are good chances to advance to HR specialist, HR partner, or HR manager after a few years of experience.
- What is the work environment like?
- The profession is mainly office-based with elements of flexible hours and digital tools.
