Special educator, speech and language

What does a speech and language focused special educator do? – Tasks and work environment

A speech and language focused special educator primarily works on identifying, analyzing, and supporting children and students with difficulties in speech, language, and communication. The role involves close collaboration with teachers, parents, and student health teams to develop and implement intervention programs that enhance the student's language development and learning. The work is often carried out within preschools, primary schools, or special schools, but may also occur in habilitation or speech therapy services. The work environment demands high levels of teamwork, flexibility, and the ability to work both independently and in teams, often with varied tasks and meetings with many different individuals during a workday.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salaries for speech and language special educators have steadily increased. In 2022, the average salary was 43,000 SEK per month, rising to 44 400 SEK in 2023 and to 45 900 SEK in 2024. This equates to a total increase of approximately 6.7% over the period. The positive salary trend can partly be explained by increased demand for specialized skills in schools and a greater focus on early interventions for children with speech difficulties. The market has also been influenced by skill requirements and continued education, where specialized knowledge in speech and language is increasingly valued. Salaries have developed steadily, indicating a stable attractiveness of the profession.

Speech and language special educator salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 45 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,600 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 50,700 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 276 SEK
• Men's average salary: 45 500 SEK
• Women's average salary: 46 000 SEK
• Women earn: 101% of what men do
• Regional differences: Data varies, but larger cities often have slightly higher salaries

Education and qualifications

Becoming a speech and language special educator requires a basic teaching degree followed by a master's level special education program. The education combines theoretical studies with practical training and demands both subject knowledge and the ability to meet diverse student needs. Many also choose to deepen their expertise in language didactics and sometimes speech therapy.

• Teaching degree: Basic pedagogical training (3–4.5 years)
• Special education program: 1.5 years (master's level)
• Specialization in speech and language: Advanced courses in language disorders, communication, or speech therapy
• Practical training: Included during studies and often as part of further education
• Qualification requirements: Teaching degree and work experience in schools

Common benefits and compensations

Speech and language special educators are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, professional development, and flexible working hours. Other common compensations include subsidized lunches, extra vacation days, and access to supervision and further training within the profession.

Challenges and competition

The profession is characterized by a balanced labor market where demand for specialized skills remains stable. A particular challenge is meeting the increasing need for qualified support for children with speech disorders, while resources within schools are often limited. Special educators need to continually update their knowledge and adapt their methods based on new research and changing policies. Working across different school types and handling complex student cases requires high flexibility and collaboration skills. Competition for positions is moderate, but specialization in speech and language can increase opportunities for attractive assignments.

Tips for aspiring speech and language special educators

To succeed as a speech and language special educator, it is helpful to be attentive and genuinely interested in children's and students' language development. Good collaboration skills facilitate daily work involving contact with colleagues and parents. Patience and structure help during assessments and long-term support. Continuing education and staying updated with current research in speech disorders and communication are essential for providing effective interventions. Analytical skills are valuable for quickly identifying students' needs and designing individual measures. Finally, a strong commitment and the ability to inspire others are important in creating inclusive learning environments.

Key facts about speech and language special educators

• Salary range: 34,600–50,700 SEK/month
• Education level: Teaching degree + master's special education program
• Work environment: Schools, preschools, and student health teams
• Gender distribution: Women earn on average 1% more than men
• Demand: 434 job openings nationwide (2024)

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a speech and language special educator can develop into roles such as coordinator for student health teams, mentor for colleagues, or responsible for development projects related to language development in schools. Some choose to deepen their expertise through doctoral studies or specialization in areas like multilingualism or alternative communication methods. According to the Swedish Employment Agency's forecast, the job opportunities for special teachers and special educators are moderate and expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, indicating continued stable demand. The number of available positions is relatively high, and the job market is characterized by a balance between supply and demand.

Frequently asked questions about speech and language special educators

• What is the average salary of a speech and language special educator?
  - The average salary for a speech and language special educator is 45 900 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development for speech and language special educators progressed?
  - Salaries have increased from 43,000 SEK in 2022 to 45 900 SEK in 2024, corresponding to an increase of approximately 6.7%.
• What education is required to become a speech and language special educator?
  - A teaching degree followed by a master's level special education program with specialization in speech and language is required.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Women earn on average 46 000 SEK, which is 101% of men's salaries.
• How many job openings are available for speech and language special educators?
  - There are 434 job openings in the profession nationwide.
• What are the most common work environments?
  - Most work in schools, preschools, and student health teams, sometimes also within habilitation or speech therapy services.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for the profession?
  - The highest salary is 50,700 SEK and the lowest is 34,600 SEK per month.