Special educator, hearing

What does a special education teacher with a hearing focus do? – Tasks and work environment

A special education teacher with a hearing focus works to support children, adolescents, or adults with hearing impairments or deafness. Tasks include pedagogical mapping, adapting the learning environment, mentoring colleagues, and collaborating with guardians and other actors. The work environment often comprises schools, specialized units, or habilitation centers where accessibility, technical aids, and interdisciplinary collaboration are central. The teacher plays a key role in creating inclusive learning environments and contributing to everyone's right to education.

Salary development over time

Salaries for special education teachers with a hearing focus have developed positively in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,000 SEK per month, rising the following year to 44 400. In 2024, the average salary has continued to increase to 45 900, which corresponds to a total increase of about 6.7% over three years. This salary development reflects increased demand for special pedagogical skills and a generally higher salary level within educational professions. That women in the field earn slightly more than their male colleagues is uncommon in pedagogical professions and may be due to more women having higher education levels or more experience. Salaries are also influenced by the employer sector, education level, and geographic location.

Special education teacher, hearing – complete overview

• Average salary: 45 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,600 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 50,700 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 276 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 101% of what men do (women 46 000 SEK, men 45 500 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and employer

Education and qualifications

To work as a special education teacher with a hearing focus, a longer academic education is required. The path typically starts with a teaching degree followed by a specialized pedagogical program (1.5 years) with a focus on hearing. In addition to formal degrees, experience from work in schools or habilitation centers and knowledge of hearing technology and sign language are advantageous.

• Teaching degree: Basic requirement, 3–4.5 years
• Special education program: Advanced 1.5-year training
• Sign language skills: Often a requirement or strong merit
• Experience with hearing technology: Advantageous
• Practical experience or work in schools/habilitation: Provides deeper competence

Common benefits and compensations

Special education teachers with a hearing focus are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, extra vacation days, wellness allowances, and opportunities for professional development. Depending on the employer, flexitime, work clothing, and subsidized lunches may also be included.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a special education teacher with a hearing focus is considered relatively balanced. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service forecast, demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, meaning there is neither a surplus nor a shortage of workforce nationally. Challenges in the profession often involve staying updated on new technology, changes in pedagogical guidelines, and meeting students' individual needs. Flexibility and collaboration skills are also essential, as tasks are often carried out in close dialogue with other professionals and parents.

Tips for those who want to become a special education teacher with a hearing focus

To succeed as a special education teacher with a hearing focus, it is beneficial to have strong empathy and sensitivity, as the work involves close contact with students and their families. Patience and perseverance are crucial for adapting teaching and finding solutions for each individual. Early deepening of sign language and hearing technology knowledge is recommended, as these skills are highly sought after. Being collaborative and communicative helps in daily work with colleagues and external actors. Finally, initiative and a willingness to continue learning are important qualities to meet the constantly changing demands in the field.

Key facts about a special education teacher with a hearing focus

• Average salary: 45 900 SEK/month
• Lowest–highest salary: 34,600–50,700 SEK/month
• Education level: Teaching degree + special education program (4.5–6 years)
• Work environment: School, habilitation, or specialized unit, often interdisciplinary work
• Demand: Moderate opportunities (434 job openings in the profession)

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a special education teacher with a hearing focus can advance to leadership roles such as coordinator, team leader, or development manager within special education. Some choose to specialize further, for example in hearing technology or sign language education, while others move on to broader roles within student health services or education administration. The forecast from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicates that job opportunities are assessed as moderate, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. This provides a stable job market for the profession, although regional variations may occur.

Common questions about a special education teacher with a hearing focus

• What does a special education teacher, hearing focus earn?
  - The average salary is 45 900 SEK per month, with a range between 34,600 SEK and 50,700 SEK.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 46 000 SEK while men earn 45 500 SEK, which means women earn 101% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a special education teacher, hearing focus?
  - Basic requirements include a teaching degree and subsequently the special education program (1.5 years), often supplemented with knowledge of sign language.
• What is the job market like for this profession?
  - The job market is considered balanced with moderate opportunities, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over five years.
• What are the tasks of a special education teacher with a hearing focus?
  - Tasks include pedagogical mapping, adapting teaching, mentoring, and collaborating with other professionals.
• How has salary developed over time?
  - Salaries have increased from 43,000 SEK in 2022 to 45 900 SEK in 2024, a rise of approximately 6.7% over three years.
• What benefits are common in this profession?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, extra vacation days, wellness allowances, and professional development opportunities.