Diocesan Secretary

What does a Stiftssekreterare do? – Tasks and work environment

A Stiftssekreterare primarily works within the Swedish Church's diocesan organizations and plays a central role in the administration and development of the diocese's activities. Common tasks include handling cases, investigations within church law and administration, providing support to congregations in legal and administrative matters, and coordinating projects and training. The work is characterized by close collaboration with the diocese's management, elected representatives, and external actors. The work environment is mostly office-based, often with travel within the diocese and meetings and training sessions on-site at congregations.

Salary development over time

The salary for a Stiftssekreterare has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 42,300 SEK per month, which increased to 44 400 in 2023 and reached 48 900 in 2024. The total increase over three years amounts to approximately 16%, which is significantly higher than the average salary growth for many other administrative professions. This positive trend can be explained by increased demand for legal and administrative competence within the church's organizations, an overall rising education level among professionals, and a greater focus on qualified tasks. The salary increase has also been influenced by more positions requiring specialized knowledge in both law and economics, further driving up salary levels.

Stiftssekreterare salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 48 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 36,000 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 72,800 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 294 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn on average 46 900 SEK (88% of men's 53 100 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on diocese and region

Education and qualifications

To work as a Stiftssekreterare, a university degree in law, social sciences, or economics is usually required, often supplemented with knowledge of the church's organization and regulations. Many employers also seek experience in administration, project management, and good communication skills. Specialized courses in church law, administrative law, or public administration can be advantageous, as can internships or previous engagement in voluntary organizations.

• Formal degree: Law, political science, or economics (bachelor's degree, 3 years or more)
• Courses and certifications: Church law, public administration, project management
• Internship: Experience from church or public administration is advantageous
• Prerequisites: University eligibility and good knowledge of Swedish
• Tips for choosing: Engage in voluntary organizations or church activities during studies

Common benefits and compensations

Stiftssekreterare are often covered by collective agreements that include occupational pension, extra vacation days, and health insurance. Other common benefits include wellness allowances, the possibility of remote work, and paid training days. In some cases, subsidized lunches or travel allowances are offered, especially if the job involves visiting congregations in different parts of the diocese.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a Stiftssekreterare varies depending on the region and the size of the diocese, but the number of positions is relatively limited compared to other administrative professions. Increasing requirements for specialized legal and administrative skills mean employers often seek candidates with both broad and deep experience. A challenge is to manage complex regulations and quickly adapt to changes within both the church's organization and society at large. Additionally, high demands are placed on integrity and the ability to work independently, while teamwork and pedagogical skills are crucial in interactions with congregations and colleagues.

Tips for those aspiring to become a Stiftssekreterare

To succeed as a Stiftssekreterare, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a genuine interest in social issues and the church's role. Being organized and meticulous facilitates handling legal documents and administrative processes, while good teamwork skills make it easier to work with colleagues and congregations. The ability to communicate clearly is important when explaining complex decisions and regulations to different audiences. Showing initiative and staying updated on changes in legislation and church regulations is also valuable. Engagement in voluntary activities and experience in project management often provide an extra advantage during recruitment. Ultimately, high integrity and the ability to make independent decisions in often sensitive matters are essential.

Key facts about Stiftssekreterare

• Average salary: 48 900 SEK/month
• Salary range: 36,000–72,800 SEK/month
• Education level: Bachelor's degree or higher
• Gender differences: Women earn 88% of what men do
• Job openings in the profession: 758

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a Stiftssekreterare, opportunities open up to advance to senior roles, such as diocesan lawyer, operations manager, or coordinator for larger projects within the diocesan organization. Some choose to specialize in areas such as property issues, environmental law, or personnel administration. The Employment Service's forecasts for the legal profession indicate good prospects for continued employment, although demand may vary between dioceses and regions. A total of 758 job openings were reported in this profession in the latest survey, indicating a stable job market for qualified candidates. Due to limited data, no specific forecast is made for just Stiftssekreterare, but the profession is viewed as an important part of the church's future development.

Frequently asked questions about Stiftssekreterare

• What is the average salary of a Stiftssekreterare?
  - The average salary is 48 900 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a Stiftssekreterare?
  - Typically, a bachelor's degree in law, political science, or economics, along with experience in administration, is required.
• Are there significant salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn on average 88% of what men do within the profession.
• What is the job market like for Stiftssekreterare?
  - There are 758 job openings in the profession, but few specific positions as Stiftssekreterare.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a Stiftssekreterare?
  - The highest salary is 72,800 SEK, and the lowest is 36,000 SEK per month.
• What benefits are common?
  - Occupational pension, wellness benefits, flexible working hours, and paid training are common.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Analytical skills, integrity, teamwork, and good communication are especially important.