What does a school secretary, case officer do? – Tasks and work environment
A school secretary, case officer often works in a school environment or municipal administration, managing and coordinating cases related to school operations. Tasks may include handling student cases, filing, personnel administration, financial duties, and supporting principals and school management. The contact points are numerous and include students, guardians, teachers, and external authorities. The work is largely office-based and requires precision and the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously, often under tight deadlines and high tempo.
Salary development over time
The salary for school secretaries, case officers has increased steadily in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,200 SEK per month, rising to 44 700 SEK in 2023 and reaching 46 500 SEK in 2024. This represents a salary increase of approximately 7.6% over this three-year period. This positive trend can be partly explained by increased demand for qualified administrative staff in the education sector and a greater focus on skill development within the profession. The market has been characterized by balance, with neither oversupply nor shortages driving up salaries rapidly. Nevertheless, the profession has followed the general wage trend in public administration, with experience and education level being significant factors affecting salary.
School secretary, case officer salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 46 500 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 30,200 SEK/month (women, public sector, lower education)
- Highest salary: 60,200 SEK/month (men, municipal sector, doctoral education)
- Hourly wage (average): 280 SEK
- Women's salary as a percentage of men's: 93%
- Regional differences: Salary levels may vary between regions, often slightly higher in larger cities.
Education and qualifications
The pathway to working as a school secretary, case officer typically involves a high school education in administration or economics, supplemented with further education at postgraduate level. Many employers also require experience in similar administrative roles and good computer skills. Some individuals enhance their qualifications with courses in public administration or communication to strengthen their competence.
- High school education: Economics or administration program (3 years)
- Post-secondary courses: Public administration, management, personnel, or economics
- Work experience: Prior administrative work is advantageous
- IT skills: Good familiarity with Office suite and digital case management systems
- Personal qualities: Attention to detail, service-mindedness, and good collaboration skills
Many school secretaries, case officers gain a unique insight into daily school life and development, often becoming a hub for both students and staff. The role requires the ability to quickly switch between different tasks and handle confidential information with great integrity.
Common benefits and compensations
School secretaries, case officers are often covered by collective agreements that include occupational pension, extra vacation days, flexitime, and wellness contributions. Other common benefits include opportunities for professional development, subsidized lunches, and sometimes reduced working hours during the summer.
Challenges and competition
The job market for school secretaries, case officers is characterized by a balance between supply and demand, with opportunities regarded as moderate nationwide. One of the main challenges is the high pace and wide variety of cases handled daily, which demands structure and prioritization skills. Competition for the most attractive positions can be high, especially in metropolitan areas where salary levels tend to be somewhat higher. To stand out in recruitment processes, it is often crucial to demonstrate relevant work experience and documented administrative competence. Digitalization within public administration also increases demands on IT skills and the ability to quickly familiarize oneself with new systems.
Tips for aspiring school secretaries, case officers
To succeed as a school secretary, case officer, having good organizational skills and enjoying working in a structured manner under pressure is beneficial. Being service-oriented and able to engage with different people with sensitivity is important, as the role involves many contact points. A good sense of order helps manage cases and documents correctly, while flexibility makes it easier to switch rapidly between tasks. Attention to detail and integrity are especially valued when handling sensitive information. Engagement with the school's activities and a desire to contribute to efficient administration are also crucial for job satisfaction and growth in the profession.
Key facts about School secretaries, case officers
- Average salary: 46 500 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 30,200 SEK/month
- Highest salary: 60,200 SEK/month
- Education level: High school + additional courses
- Job market: 758 available jobs within the profession
Career paths and future outlook
After a few years of experience, a school secretary, case officer can progress to more qualified administrative roles, such as administrative coordinator, school administrator, or move into leadership positions within school or municipal management. Opportunities to broaden skills through further education in public administration or economics are good. According to the latest forecast from the Employment Service, demand for planners and investigators, which includes the profession, is expected to remain unchanged, with a balanced job market. This means competition for positions is neither very fierce nor very low, and there are stable prospects over five years.
Frequently asked questions about school secretaries, case officers
- What does a school secretary, case officer earn?
- The average salary is 46 500 SEK per month, ranging from 30,200 SEK to 60,200 SEK.
- What education is required to become a school secretary, case officer?
- High school education in administration or economics is recommended, preferably supplemented with postgraduate courses.
- Are there gender differences in salary?
- Yes, women earn 93% of what men do within the profession.
- What is the job market outlook?
- There is a balanced job market with approximately 758 available jobs nationally within the profession.
- What qualities are important for the profession?
- Attention to detail, service-mindedness, integrity, and flexibility are especially important.
- What are the future prospects?
- According to the Employment Service, demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
- Is there opportunity for career development?
- Yes, it is possible to advance to more qualified administrative roles or leadership positions.
