Secretary, political

What does a secretary within political activities do? – Tasks and work environment

A secretary within political activities plays a central role in supporting political decision-makers and elected representatives in their daily work. Tasks often include preparing documents for meetings, recording decisions, managing correspondence, and coordinating administrative processes. Many secretaries assist with investigations, project coordination, and communication between various actors within the public sector. The work environment is characterized by high pace, tight deadlines, and demands for integrity and discretion. The work is often done in close collaboration with politicians, civil servants, and external stakeholders in municipalities, regions, or government agencies.

Salary development over time

Secretaries within political activities have experienced steady salary growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,200 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 44 700 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 46 500 SEK, representing a total increase of about 7.6% over three years. This positive trend can partly be explained by increased demand for qualified administrative skills in the public sector and higher requirements for education and experience. Salary development has also been influenced by inflation and collective bargaining, but the profession has generally followed the overall wage trend in state and municipal administration. Despite the increase, differences between genders and sectors remain.

Secretaries within political activities salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 46 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,200 SEK/month (female, government sector, less than 9 years of education)
• Highest salary: 60,200 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, doctoral degree)
• Average salary men: 48 800 SEK/month
Average salary women: 45 300 SEK/month
• Women’s salary in relation to men: 93%
• Average hourly wage: 280 SEK

Education and qualifications

To work as a secretary within political activities, a post-secondary education in social sciences, administration, or political science is generally required. Many employers also value experience from public administration, good language skills, and familiarity with working in politically governed organizations. Additional merits include the ability to communicate well orally and in writing, as well as high integrity and discretion.

• Post-secondary education (e.g., university degree in social sciences or administration, 2–4 years)
• Courses in public administration and law
• Internship in the public sector or politically governed activities
• Strong communication skills and experience with document management
• Strong IT skills in office systems and case management

Common benefits and compensations

Secretaries within political activities are often covered by collective agreements with benefits such as occupational pension, generous vacation, flexitime, and options for remote work. Other common compensations include wellness allowances, subsidized lunches, and access to skills development. In some cases, extra vacation days and favorable conditions for overtime pay are offered.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as secretaries within political activities is moderate, with about 758 available jobs in the planning and investigation profession. According to the Swedish Employment Agency, demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, indicating a balanced labor market between supply and demand. Major challenges include high demands for flexibility, the ability to handle complex issues, and quickly getting acquainted with new regulations. The work can be stressful, especially during periods when many decisions need to be made simultaneously, requiring good stress management and the ability to handle confidential information. Regional differences exist, with larger cities often offering more positions and somewhat higher salaries.

Tips for those who want to become a secretary within political activities

To succeed as a secretary within political activities, it’s good to have a genuine interest in societal issues and public administration. Good organizational skills facilitate when multiple projects and deadlines must be coordinated simultaneously, and accuracy is crucial for managing protocols and documentation correctly. Initiative is valuable since tasks often require independent decisions and problem-solving. Communicative ability, both orally and in writing, is highly appreciated as the role involves much contact with internal and external actors. Being discreet and able to handle sensitive information is a given, and patience helps when political processes take time. Finally, flexibility is key, as workdays rarely look the same in the political world.

Key facts about secretaries within political activities

• Salary range: 30,200–60,200 SEK/month
• Average salary: 46 500 SEK/month
• Gender difference: Women earn 93% of men’s salaries
• Work environment: Office-based, often high pace and close collaboration with politicians
• Demand: 758 available jobs in the profession, future outlook unchanged

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a secretary within political activities, opportunities open for more qualified roles, such as investigator, case officer, or administrative manager within the public sector. Some advance to strategic roles within political parties, government agencies, or interest organizations. According to the Swedish Employment Agency’s forecasts, the labor market is expected to remain stable with moderate job opportunities and unchanged demand over the next five years. Development opportunities are good for those who continuously upgrade their skills and build networks within politically governed activities. Regionally, competition may vary, with larger opportunities in metropolitan areas and larger employers.

Frequently asked questions about secretaries within political activities

• What does a secretary within political activities earn?
  - The average salary is 46 500 SEK per month, but it varies between 30,200 SEK and 60,200 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What education is required to become a secretary within political activities?
  - Usually, post-secondary education in social sciences, administration, or similar fields is required.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn on average 93% of what men do within the profession.
• What does the job market look like for secretaries within political activities?
  - The job market is balanced with about 758 available jobs and stable demand according to the Swedish Employment Agency.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Occupational pension, vacation, flexitime, wellness allowance, and opportunities for skills development are common benefits.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Career paths include investigator, administrative manager, or roles within political organizations and government agencies.