What does a personnel secretary, HR officer do? – Tasks and work environment
A personnel secretary or HR officer works to support and develop the organization’s personnel administrative processes. Tasks include everything from recruitment, employment contracts, and onboarding to payroll management, personnel statistics, and work environment issues. The role often involves being a link between management and employees, requiring insight into both employment law and organizational needs. The work environment is typically office-based, with close collaboration with the HR department and other administrative functions. The pace can be high, especially in larger organizations or during periods of change, and the profession requires good organization and the ability to handle confidential information.
Salary development over time
Personnel secretaries and HR officers have experienced steady salary growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,000 SEK per month, increasing to 47 600 in 2023 and reaching 49 900 in 2024. This represents a total salary increase of nearly 8.5% over three years. The salary development reflects the increased demand for HR expertise and the strengthening of the strategic importance of personnel functions within organizations. A key factor behind this trend is a higher proportion of employees with post-secondary education, as well as increased focus on work environment issues and skills supply. Salary differences can also depend on sector, experience, and education level, but overall, the industry has developed steadily with good conditions.
Personnel secretary, HR officer salary – complete 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, post-secondary education)
- Hourly wage (average): 300 SEK
- Women earn: 49 100 SEK/month (93% of men's salary)
- Men earn: 52 900 SEK/month
- Regional differences: May occur, with higher salaries in metropolitan regions
Education and qualifications
To work as a personnel secretary or HR officer, a post-secondary education in personnel, working life, or HR is usually required. It is common to combine studies in employment law, economics, and behavioral sciences. Practical experience, such as internships or trainee positions, is highly valued, as is the ability to handle administrative systems and digital tools.
- Post-secondary education: Personnel and working life programs (3 years)
- Shorter courses: Employment law, payroll systems, work environment
- Internship: Recommended during or after studies
- Prerequisites: High school diploma, often with a social science or economic focus
- Certifications: Meritorious in HR or payroll
Personnel secretaries and HR officers play a central role during organizational changes, such as restructuring or major recruitment efforts. The profession requires good communication skills and the ability to manage change confidently and methodically, which often makes these specialists key persons in change projects.
Common benefits and compensations
Among the most common benefits for personnel secretaries and HR officers are health promotion allowances, occupational pension, flexible working hours, and the possibility of remote work. Skills development, subsidized lunch, and insurance are also common. In some cases, bonuses or extra vacation days are offered depending on the employer and sector.
Competition and challenges
The job market for personnel secretaries and HR officers is characterized by moderate competition and a balanced recruitment situation. Although many positions are available, especially in metropolitan areas, high demands are placed on education and experience. Digitalization of HR processes and increased legal requirements mean that the role is rapidly evolving. Challenges include staying updated on legislation and managing complex personnel issues in a changing work environment. The ability to work proactively and build relationships is crucial for long-term success.
Tips for those who want to become a personnel secretary, HR officer
To succeed as a personnel secretary or HR officer, it is good to have a genuine interest in people and organizations. Structured problem-solving facilitates daily work and makes it easier to handle complex personnel matters. Being communicative and attentive helps with recruitment and collaboration with colleagues. Curiosity and willingness to learn new things are important as laws and routines constantly change in HR. Analytical thinking makes it easier to interpret personnel statistics and suggest improvements. Lastly, integrity and the ability to handle sensitive information support professional interactions and foster trust in the role.
Key facts about personnel secretaries, HR officers
- Average salary: 49 900 SEK/month
- Education level: Post-secondary education (3 years or more)
- Work environment: Office-based, often flexible hours
- Job vacancies: 758 advertised positions within the profession
- Future prospects: Moderate, stable demand according to Arbetsförmedlingen
Career paths and future outlook
After three to five years in the profession, a personnel secretary or HR officer can develop into roles such as HR specialist, HR partner, or personnel manager. Many choose to specialize in employment law, recruitment, or skills development. According to Arbetsförmedlingen’s forecasts, employment opportunities remain moderate, and demand is expected to stay unchanged over the next five years. Technological development and digitalization of HR processes also create new roles, such as in HR analysis and digital personnel administration. There are good opportunities for internal development and further education for those who want to grow within the field.
Common questions about personnel secretaries, HR officers
- What does a personnel secretary, HR officer earn?
- The average salary is 49 900 SEK per month, but it varies depending on experience, education, and sector.
- What education is required to become a personnel secretary, HR officer?
- Post-secondary education in personnel, HR, or working life of at least three years is recommended.
- Are there salary differences between women and men?
- Yes, women earn an average of 49 100 SEK per month, which is 93% of men's salary.
- What is the job market like for personnel secretaries, HR officers?
- The job market is considered balanced with moderate opportunities and stable demand.
- What are the most common tasks?
- Recruitment, personnel administration, payroll management, employment law, and work environment issues.
- What is the highest and lowest salary in the profession?
- The highest salary is 58,600 SEK and the lowest 40,500 SEK per month, depending on education, gender, and sector.
- Are there regional salary differences?
- Yes, higher salaries often occur in metropolitan regions.
