Post assistant

What does a Post Office Clerk do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Post Office Clerk is responsible for sorting, handling, and distributing mail and packages to individuals and businesses. The work often involves loading and delivering mail by bicycle, moped, or car, but also includes indoor tasks such as sorting and preparing for delivery. Customer contact is a natural part of the workday, and sometimes simple administrative tasks, such as handling registered mail or assisting customers at postal counters, are included. The pace can be high, especially during periods with large volumes of letters and packages, and the work environment includes outdoor work in varying weather conditions and indoor work in sorting facilities.

Salary development over time

The salary for a Post Office Clerk has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 27,900 SEK per month, which increased to 29 300 SEK in 2023 and further to 30 100 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 7.9% over three years. This positive trend can partly be explained by general collective agreement wage increases, but also by increased demand for flexibility and responsibility in duties. Despite this, the profession still has a relatively narrow salary range, and wage increases have been comparatively moderate relative to some other occupations in the job market. Gender pay differences are small, with women earning 99% of men's wages, indicating a relatively equal pay structure within the profession. Regional differences exist but do not significantly affect the average salary.

Post Office Clerk salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 30 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,000 SEK/month (male), 29,100 SEK/month (female)
• Highest salary: 32,200 SEK/month (male), 30,800 SEK/month (female)
• Hourly wage: 181 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 99% of what men do
• Regional differences: Present but do not significantly affect the average salary

Education and qualifications

No formal education beyond high school is usually required to work as a Post Office Clerk, with the most common background being a high school diploma, often with a focus on service or commerce. Many employers provide internal training and onboarding at the workplace. A driver’s license may be required depending on the location and delivery area.

• High school diploma: Most common background, often with a service focus (3 years)
• Internal training: Introduction and practical training at the workplace
• Driver’s license (B): Often required for certain delivery areas
• Physical requirements: Good physical condition and ability to work outdoors
• Pre-knowledge: Basic Swedish skills and some IT familiarity

Common benefits and compensations

Post Office Clerks are often covered by collective agreements that entitle them to holiday pay, overtime pay for unsocial hours, and sometimes wellness allowances. Insurance, pension contributions, and employee discounts are also common, especially with larger employers within the postal and logistics sector.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a Post Office Clerk is relatively high, mainly due to an oversupply of job seekers within the profession. According to the Employment Service’s forecasts for cashiers, which include Post Office Clerks, the opportunities for employment nationwide are small, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Digitalization and changing distribution habits pose challenges, as do requirements for flexibility and physical endurance. Seasonal variations and weather conditions can also impact the work environment and require adaptability.

Tips for those wanting to become a Post Office Clerk

To succeed as a Post Office Clerk, it’s good to be service-oriented and meticulous, as the job involves daily customer contact and responsibility for accurate delivery. Good physical condition makes the workday easier, especially when delivering on foot or by bike in different weather conditions. Flexibility and the ability to work independently are important qualities, as tasks vary and quick adjustments may be needed. Punctuality and organization are also beneficial to ensure mail is delivered on schedule. Basic IT skills and the ability to handle digital tools are increasingly important. A positive attitude and patience help when unexpected situations arise, and a willingness to learn new routines and technologies makes adaptation easier.

Key facts about Post Office Clerks

• Salary range: 27,000–32,200 SEK/month
• Education level: High school diploma, often with internal training
• Work environment: Combines outdoor and indoor work
• Demand: 550 job openings within the profession
• Future prospects: Limited opportunities, demand expected to remain unchanged (Employment Service)

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a Post Office Clerk, there are opportunities to advance to more responsible roles, such as supervisor within postal delivery or logistics coordinator. Some choose to further their education in transportation, warehousing, or administration to broaden their career options. According to the Employment Service’s latest forecast for cashiers, including Post Office Clerks, the demand for labor is expected to stay the same over the next five years, with high competition for jobs. Digitalization and automation influence the role, but the need for reliable and flexible employees remains, especially in regions with high population density. For those looking to change careers, there are also opportunities within related fields such as warehousing, transportation, or customer service.

Common questions about Post Office Clerks

• What is the average salary of a Post Office Clerk?
  - A Post Office Clerk has an average salary of 30 100 SEK per month.
• What is the salary range for a Post Office Clerk?
  - The salary varies between 27,000 and 32,200 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
• Are there gender differences in salary for Post Office Clerks?
  - Yes, but the difference is small; women earn 99% of what men do.
• What education is required to become a Post Office Clerk?
  - A high school diploma is often sufficient, supplemented by internal training at the workplace.
• What are the future prospects for a Post Office Clerk?
  - According to the Employment Service, opportunities are limited and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What personal qualities are important for a Post Office Clerk?
  - Service-mindedness, accuracy, good physical condition, and flexibility are important qualities.
• Are there many job openings for Post Office Clerks?
  - Within the profession, there are currently 550 job openings.