Accounts receivable

What does an accounts receivable clerk do? – Tasks and work environment

An accounts receivable clerk primarily manages and administers a company's customer and supplier ledgers. The role involves reviewing, registering, and following up on invoices, handling payments, and communicating with both customers and suppliers. The work is often performed in financial systems and requires high accuracy and the ability to handle large amounts of data. The work environment is usually office-based with clear routines, but the pace can vary depending on the company's size and industry. Many accounts receivable clerks work closely with the finance department and collaborate with colleagues in accounting and administration.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, accounts receivable clerks have experienced steady salary increases. In 2022, the average salary was 34,200 SEK per month, which increased to 35 500 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has continued upward to 36 400 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 6.4% over the period. This development reflects a certain demand for qualified finance assistants, but also general annual salary adjustments within the industry. Despite a weaker labor market situation, salary increases have remained consistent, possibly due to increased requirements for digital competence and efficiency in the role.

Accounts receivable clerk salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 36 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 29,400 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 38,000 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 219 SEK/hour
• Women: 36 500 SEK/month
• Men: 35 400 SEK/month
• Women earn: 103% of what men do

Education and qualifications

To work as an accounts receivable clerk, a high school diploma with an economic or administrative focus is usually required. Many employers also value further education, such as post-secondary programs in economics or accounting. Practical experience in financial work and good system familiarity are considered advantageous, and there are also shorter courses and certifications that can strengthen competitiveness in the job market.

• High school diploma: Economics program or similar (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: Finance assistant training, YH education (1–2 years)
• Certifications: Courses in bookkeeping, accounting, and financial systems
• Internship: Often advantageous, sometimes required
• System familiarity: Experience with business and financial systems

Common benefits and compensation

Accounts receivable clerks are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, occupational pension, and sometimes flexible working hours. Other common perks include subsidized lunches, remote work options, and regular skills development initiatives. Some employers also offer bonuses linked to results or performance.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for accounts receivable clerks is characterized by an oversupply of workers, which can make competition for available positions high. Forecasts indicate that demand for this profession will decrease over the next five years, mainly due to increased automation and digitalization of financial processes. Higher system competence and the ability to handle changing tasks are increasingly demanded. Special expertise in digital financial systems or experience from international companies can be an advantage for those looking to stand out. Adaptability and continuous skills development will be crucial for long-term success in the profession.

Tips for those who want to become an accounts receivable clerk

To succeed as an accounts receivable clerk, it is important to be meticulous and organized, as the work often involves handling large amounts of financial information. Developing strong problem-solving skills can help when discrepancies or errors occur in the ledger. It's also vital to be communicative and service-minded, since the role often involves contact with internal and external parties. For those looking to strengthen their position in the job market, it is recommended to continuously update skills in new financial systems and digital tools. Flexibility and adaptability are becoming increasingly important as the industry digitalizes, and a positive attitude towards change can open new opportunities. Finally, the ability to work independently while collaborating with colleagues in the finance department is a valuable asset.

Key facts about an accounts receivable clerk

• Education level: High school diploma or post-secondary finance education
• Work environment: Office-based, often in a team within the finance department
• Demand: Limited opportunities for new jobs, oversupply of applicants
• Average salary: 36 400 SEK/month
• Typical working hours: Full-time, daytime

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an accounts receivable clerk, there are opportunities to advance to more qualified roles such as finance assistant, accounting economist, or team leader within the finance department. Some choose to specialize in digital financial systems or process development, which can lead to roles such as system administrator or project manager for financial processes. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts for finance assistants, demand is expected to decline in five years, and the recruitment market will be characterized by an oversupply of applicants. Despite this, there are still good opportunities for those who combine financial knowledge with digital skills and the ability to drive change.

Frequently asked questions about an accounts receivable clerk

• What is the average salary of an accounts receivable clerk?
  - The average salary for an accounts receivable clerk is 36 400 SEK per month.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn on average 36 500 SEK and men 35 400 SEK, which means women earn 103% of what men do within the profession.
• What education is required to become an accounts receivable clerk?
  - The most common qualification is a high school diploma with an economic focus, but post-secondary education and courses in economics are often advantageous.
• What is the job market like for accounts receivable clerks?
  - There is a surplus of labor and demand is expected to decrease in the coming years.
• What are the job responsibilities of an accounts receivable clerk?
  - The work includes invoice management, follow-up of customer and supplier accounts, and contact with clients and vendors.
• Are there opportunities for career development?
  - Yes, with experience and further education, one can advance to roles such as finance assistant, accounting economist, or team leader.
• How does digitalization affect the profession?
  - Digitalization increases demands for system familiarity and automates certain tasks, which impacts the demand for the profession.