Personal protection guard, other

What does a personal protection officer do – tasks and work environment

A personal protection officer works to protect individuals who are particularly exposed to threats or risks for various reasons, such as company executives, politicians, or witnesses. Job tasks vary depending on the assignment and can include risk assessment, planning of transport, surveillance of surroundings, and physical escort. The work is often carried out in teams and requires high alertness, discretion, and the ability to act quickly in pressured situations. The work environment can be both stationary and mobile, and shifts are often irregular as protection objects may require security around the clock.

Salary development over time

Personal protection officers have seen a steady increase in salary over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,900 SEK per month, which increased to 32 800 SEK in 2023, and now reaches 34 300 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total salary increase of approximately 7.5% during the period. Salaries have strengthened as demand for qualified security personnel has increased, especially within the public sector and for specialized security assignments. The industry is also affected by higher requirements for education and certifications, contributing to higher salary levels. Despite this, some wage gaps between men and women persist, although they have decreased somewhat over time.

Personal protection officer, other salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 34 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 33,200 SEK/month (female, regional sector, 3-year high school education)
• Highest salary: 37,600 SEK/month (female, public sector, pre-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 206 SEK/hour
• Women earn: 33 500 SEK/month (97% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 34 600 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salaries vary slightly across the country, but metropolitan areas generally offer somewhat higher wages.

Education and qualifications

To work as a personal protection officer, a security guard training is generally required, but additional specialization in personal protection is often demanded. The training includes both theoretical and practical components, such as law, conflict management, and physical training. Many employers also require experience from other security roles before employment in personal protection.

• Security guard training: Basic training, approximately 2–3 weeks
• Specialized personal protection training: Additional courses and certifications
• Practical experience: Often a requirement from other security work
• Prerequisites: Approved background check and suitability assessment
• Tips: Education in communication, conflict management, or self-defense is advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Personal protection officers often have access to benefits such as overtime pay, wellness allowances, paid further training, and in some cases, company cars. Additional compensation may be available for assignments involving high risk or irregular hours, as well as overtime and extra vacation days for long shifts.

Competition and challenges

The profession is characterized by high competition for the most qualified assignments, while there is a shortage of people with the right skills and suitability. The recruitment situation is paradoxical, with employers struggling to find experienced candidates despite many seeking careers in the industry. The work is mentally and physically demanding, and the risk of threatening situations is always present. Quality assurance, ongoing training, and the ability to handle stress are critical factors for success and job satisfaction. Additionally, the job involves shift work and sometimes long periods without leave, which can be challenging for work-life balance.

Tips for those wishing to become a personal protection officer – other

To succeed as a personal protection officer, it is beneficial to have strong security awareness and the ability to anticipate potential risks in various environments. Attention to detail and integrity are vital, especially when handling sensitive information and maintaining discretion about the protected person's daily life. Good physical and mental endurance facilitates managing long and sometimes demanding shifts. Communication skills and teamwork are central to building trust with colleagues and those being protected. Continual further training and staying updated on new security routines increase chances of obtaining more qualified assignments. Finally, stress resilience and a calm demeanor are crucial when unexpected situations need to be handled quickly.

Key facts about personal protection officers, other

• Average salary: 34 300 SEK/month
• Education level: Security guard training + specialization in personal protection
• Work environment: Irregular working hours, varying workplaces
• Demand: Great opportunities for jobs, especially in major cities
• Special skills: Risk assessment, conflict management, discretion

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a personal protection officer, there are opportunities to advance to team leader, instructor, or security consultant within personal protection. Some choose to further their education to become security managers or switch to related professions such as security guard or security coordinator. According to the Employment Service's forecast, job opportunities in the security guard and security officer sectors remain strong, and demand is expected to stay unchanged over the next five years. Industry development is driven by societal trends, increased awareness of security, and technological advances in surveillance and protection. Gaining experience and skills opens doors to more specialized and leadership roles.

Common questions about personal protection officers, other

• What does a personal protection officer earn, other?
  - A personal protection officer has an average salary of 34 300 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience and sector.
• What education is required to become a personal protection officer?
  - Basic security guard training plus specialized training in personal protection is required, often in combination with experience from the security industry.
• What is the work environment like for personal protection officers?
  - The work often involves irregular working hours, varying workplaces, and periods of high workload, especially during high threat levels.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 33 500 SEK per month, which corresponds to 97% of men's salaries.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - According to the Employment Service, job opportunities are abundant and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Stress tolerance, integrity, good cooperation skills, and the ability to make quick decisions are particularly important qualities.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for the profession?
  - The highest salary is 37,600 SEK and the lowest 33,200 SEK, depending on gender, sector, and education level.