What does a personnel consultant do? – Tasks and work environment
A personnel consultant works to support and develop personnel issues within an organization. Tasks include recruitment, skills development, occupational health and safety work, as well as handling employment law matters and personnel administration. Personnel consultants often collaborate closely with both management and employees to ensure a good work environment and effective personnel management. The work environment is typically office-based but can also include meetings and training at various locations.
Personnel consultant salary – a complete overview
- Average salary: 49 900 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 40,500 SEK (female, public sector, high school education)
- Highest salary: 58,600 SEK (male, private sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
- Hourly wage: 300 SEK (based on 166 working hours/month)
- Gender differences: Women earn 49 100 SEK, which corresponds to 93% of men's salary at 52 900 SEK
- Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on geographic area, with larger cities often offering higher wages.
Personnel consultants often need strong communication skills and the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously, making the profession both challenging and rewarding.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, the average salary for personnel consultants has increased from 46,000 SEK in 2022 to 49 900 SEK in 2024. This represents a total salary increase of approximately 8.5% over the period. In 2023, the average salary was 47 600 SEK, indicating a stable and positive trend. This development can be attributed to increased demand for competent HR specialists and a greater awareness of the importance of personnel care and occupational health in companies and organizations. Higher education levels and specialization within the field also contribute to rising salaries. Overall, the salary trend reflects a balanced market where experience and education play a crucial role in salary growth.
Education and qualifications
To become a personnel consultant, a post-secondary education in HR or related fields is often required. Work experience and knowledge of employment law are also valuable.
- Formal qualifications: Vocational college or university education in personnel and labor issues (1–3 years)
- Certifications/courses: Courses in employment law, occupational health, and leadership
- Internships/trainee programs: Commonly include internships within HR departments
- Prerequisites: High school diploma, often with a focus on social sciences or economics
- Self-study/online courses: Supplementary courses in communication and conflict management
- Tips for choosing: Select programs with practical training opportunities to gain relevant experience
Common benefits and compensation
Personnel consultants are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, pension schemes, and flexible working hours. Some employers also offer bonuses, training support, and wellness hours. Compensation varies depending on sector and collective agreements.
Competition and challenges
The profession as a personnel consultant is competitive, especially in larger cities where many seek HR roles. Challenges include managing complex personnel issues and staying updated with legal and labor market changes. The role also requires high flexibility and the ability to balance different interests within the organization. Good communication skills and the ability to work independently under pressure are also essential.
Tips for aspiring personnel consultants
To succeed as a personnel consultant, it is important to develop strong communication skills, as the profession often involves conveying information and collaborating with many different people. Being organized and meticulous is also important for handling administrative tasks efficiently. Flexibility is another key trait, as tasks can vary and change quickly. Actively gaining experience through internships or trainee programs provides valuable insights and contacts. Finally, having a genuine interest in people and the work environment helps foster engagement and success in the profession.
Key facts about personnel consultants
- Education level: Post-secondary education 1–3 years
- Salary range: 40,500–58,600 SEK/month
- Work environment: Office-based with meetings and administration
- Gender differences: Women earn 93% of men's salaries
- Demand: Moderate, balanced recruitment situation
Career paths and future prospects
After 3–5 years as a personnel consultant, opportunities exist to advance to HR specialist, HR manager, or personnel manager roles. Some also choose to specialize in areas such as occupational health, recruitment, or organizational development. According to forecasts from the Employment Service, opportunities within HR and personnel specialists are considered moderate with unchanged demand over five years. The profession is part of a stable occupational group with a balanced recruitment situation, offering relatively good chances of continued employment and career development.
Frequently asked questions about personnel consultants
- What is the average salary of a personnel consultant?
- The average salary is approximately 49 900 SEK per month.
- What education is required to become a personnel consultant?
- Typically, post-secondary education in HR or related fields is required.
- Are there significant gender differences in salary?
- Yes, women earn on average 93% of men's salaries.
- What is the work environment like for a personnel consultant?
- The work environment is mostly office-based with meetings and administration.
- What are the future prospects for personnel consultants?
- Demand is expected to remain unchanged with moderate job opportunities.
- What personal qualities are important in this profession?
- Communication skills, flexibility, and a structured work approach are important qualities.
- Can one advance within the profession?
- Yes, there are opportunities to move on to specialist or managerial roles within HR.
