Accounting Assistant

What does an accounting assistant do? – Tasks and work environment

An accounting assistant primarily works with ongoing bookkeeping, invoice management, reconciliations, and simple financial reports. The role often involves contact with suppliers and customers, verification of documents, and handling expenses and travel reimbursements. Most work takes place in an office environment, either within private companies, public sector, or accounting firms. The work environment is characterized by precision, structure, and close collaboration with colleagues in the finance department.

Salary development over time

The salary of an accounting assistant has shown steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 34,200 SEK per month, which increased to 35 500 SEK in 2023 and further to 36 400 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total salary increase of approximately 6.4% over three years, with a particularly clear increase between 2022 and 2023. The driving factors behind this development are mainly an increased need for administrative skills within the economic sector, as well as regular adjustments based on inflation and collective agreements. Despite some salary increases, demand for new accounting assistants has begun to decline, which may affect future salary development.

Accounting assistant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 36 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 29,400 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, post-secondary education < 3 years)
• Highest salary: 38,000 SEK/month (female, private sector, pre-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 219 SEK
• Women earn: 36 500 SEK/month (103% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 35 400 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary slightly depending on location and sector, with generally somewhat higher salaries in metropolitan areas.

Education and qualifications

To work as an accounting assistant, a high school diploma with an economic focus is usually required, often supplemented with post-secondary courses or a YH (vocational higher education) program in economics. Practical knowledge of bookkeeping and experience with financial systems are advantageous, and many employers prefer candidates who have completed internships or trainee positions. There are also opportunities to enhance skills through shorter courses and self-study, especially in current accounting software and legislation.

• High school education: Economics program or equivalent
• Post-secondary education: YH or shorter courses in economics/bookkeeping
• Internship: Common and often advantageous
• Certifications: Voluntary, e.g., courses from the Swedish Tax Agency (Bokföringsnämnden)
• Prerequisites: Good computer skills and experience with financial systems

Common benefits and compensation

Accounting assistants are often covered by collective agreements, which include occupational pension, insurance, and generous vacation policies. Other benefits may include wellness allowances, flexitime, remote work options, and subsidized lunches or staff discounts, depending on the employer and sector.

Competition and challenges

The competition in the profession is significant, as the labor market is characterized by an oversupply of educated finance assistants. The number of job openings is 758, but demand is expected to decrease nationally over the next five years according to the Swedish Employment Agency. Digitalization and automation of financial administration require accounting assistants to continuously develop their digital skills. Therefore, it is important to stay updated on new systems and regulations to remain attractive in the job market.

Tips for aspiring accounting assistants

To succeed as an accounting assistant, it is good to combine accuracy with a willingness to learn new systems and routines. Attention to detail helps when reviewing figures and bookkeeping, while good communication skills facilitate interaction with colleagues and clients. Being resilient under pressure is an asset, especially during monthly and annual closing periods when the pace often increases. Showing initiative and being open to change makes it easier to adapt to new work methods and digital tools. An interest in economics and a desire to stay updated on industry regulations provide good prerequisites for growth in the role.

Key facts about accounting assistants

• Education level: High school diploma, often supplemented with YH or courses
• Work environment: Office-based, often in teams
• Demand: Limited opportunities for new jobs, oversupply of labor
• Gender distribution: Women have higher average salaries than men
• Number of job openings: 758 in the finance assistant sector

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an accounting assistant, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as accounting economist, payroll administrator, or financial administrator. With additional education, one can move into roles like controller or accounting consultant. However, according to the Swedish Employment Agency's national forecast, demand for finance assistants is expected to decline over the next five years, so competition for jobs will remain high. Those who continuously update their digital and financial knowledge have good prospects for development and finding new opportunities within related finance professions.

Frequently asked questions about accounting assistants

• What is the average salary of an accounting assistant?
  - The average salary is 36 400 SEK per month.
• What are the salary differences between women and men?
  - Women earn on average 36 500 SEK, which is 103% of men's salary at 35 400 SEK.
• What education is required to become an accounting assistant?
  - High school diploma with an economic focus, preferably supplemented with post-secondary courses or YH training in economics.
• What does the job market look like for accounting assistants?
  - There is a surplus of labor, and demand is expected to decrease nationally according to the Swedish Employment Agency.
• What are the typical tasks of an accounting assistant?
  - Ongoing bookkeeping, invoice management, reconciliations, and basic financial administration.
• Are there opportunities for career development?
  - Yes, for example to accounting economist, payroll administrator, or controller with further education.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for accounting assistants?
  - The highest salary is 38,000 SEK (female, private sector); the lowest salary is 29,400 SEK (male, municipal sector).