Accessibility consultant

What does an accessibility consultant do? – Tasks and work environment

An accessibility consultant works to ensure that buildings, public environments, and digital services meet legal requirements and recommendations regarding accessibility. The role often involves advising property owners, architects, and municipalities on designing environments to be usable for people with disabilities. Tasks may include reviewing drawings, on-site inspections, developing action plans, and training staff on accessibility issues. The work environment is varied and can involve both office work and field visits, where collaboration with other professionals is essential to achieve the best possible results.

Salary development over time

The salary for accessibility consultants has shown some variation in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 41,600 SEK per month, but in 2023, it decreased slightly to 39,000 SEK. In 2024, the salary recovered and increased to 40 500, representing a growth of approximately 3.8 % from the previous year. This fluctuation can be explained by changes in demand for expertise, project volume variations, and increased awareness of accessibility issues in society. Despite the temporary dip, the trend indicates that the profession remains in demand, and salaries are expected to be stable or cautiously rising in the future. Gender differences are unusually small, with women earning on average 105 % of men's salaries, which is uncommon compared to many other technical professions.

Accessibility consultant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 40 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 36,100 SEK/month (male), 39,000 SEK/month (female)
• Highest salary: 46,300 SEK/month (male), 43,400 SEK/month (female)
• Hourly wage: 243 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 105 % of what men do
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary between larger cities and smaller towns depending on demand and employers

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming an accessibility consultant usually involves a university degree in engineering, architecture, or fire safety engineering. Additional training in accessibility issues, legislation, and standards is often required. Practical experience from the construction or property industry is highly valuable, as are certifications in accessibility or occupational health and safety.

• Formal education: Bachelor of Engineering or equivalent (3 years) in construction, architecture, or fire safety engineering
• Certifications: Courses in accessibility, e.g., Swedish Standard (SS 914221) and the Building Regulations by the Swedish National Board of Housing, Building and Planning
• Practical experience: Work experience in construction or property sectors
• Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of construction processes and legislation
• Further education: Opportunities for specialized online courses and seminars in accessibility

Common benefits and compensations

Accessibility consultants are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, occupational pensions, remote work options, and flexible working hours. Other common compensations include skill development, subsidized lunches, or company cars for fieldwork. Some employers also provide extra vacation days or bonuses linked to project results.

Competition and challenges

Competition within the profession of accessibility consulting can vary depending on the region and economic conditions. Since the profession is part of a broader occupational group with 191 job openings, demand is high, but the role requires specialized knowledge and continuous updates on laws and standards. A challenge is staying current with changes in building regulations and accessibility requirements, while employers seek experience and practical insight. There are also varying ambitions among clients, which may require the consultant to advocate for necessary measures. For those looking to stand out, combining technical skills with pedagogical ability and a strong commitment to inclusion is crucial.

Tips for aspiring accessibility consultants

To succeed as an accessibility consultant, it is helpful to have both analytical skills and a genuine interest in social issues. A first step is to pursue an engineering degree or equivalent with a focus on construction, technology, or architecture, followed by additional courses in accessibility and legislation. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with various professionals and help explain complex requirements pedagogically. Curiosity and a desire to stay updated are important traits, as regulations and technology are constantly evolving. Practical experience from construction projects or inspections provides valuable insight into daily challenges. Engagement in networks or industry associations can open doors to new assignments and collaborations. Finally, meticulousness is essential to ensure no accessibility aspects are overlooked in projects.

Key facts about Accessibility Consultant

• Salary range: 36,100–46,300 SEK/month
• Education level: Bachelor of Engineering or equivalent, often with further training in accessibility
• Work environment: Combination of office work and field visits
• Gender differences: Women earn 105 % of men's salaries
• Job openings in the field: 191 positions

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an accessibility consultant, there are opportunities to advance to specialist roles, project manager positions within larger consulting firms, or advisory roles in government agencies and interest organizations. Some also choose to start their own consulting business or work as trainers in accessibility issues. The forecast from the Employment Service is uncertain due to limited data, but the number of job openings is relatively high, and societal development points toward increased demand for accessibility expertise. Digitalization, new legislation, and a greater focus on inclusion suggest that the profession will continue to be relevant and evolve over time.

Frequently asked questions about Accessibility Consultant

• What does an accessibility consultant earn?
  - An accessibility consultant has an average salary of 40 500 SEK per month, with a range between 36 100 and 46 300 SEK.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn an average of 41 900 SEK while men earn 40 000 SEK per month, which means women earn 105 % of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become an accessibility consultant?
  - Usually, a technical university degree, for example in construction or architecture, supplemented with courses in accessibility and relevant certifications.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The forecast is uncertain according to the Employment Service, but there are 191 job openings in the field, and demand is expected to increase with new legislation.
• What tasks does an accessibility consultant perform?
  - Tasks include reviewing drawings, inspections, advising, and training on accessibility adaptations in buildings and environments.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salary levels can vary between larger cities and smaller towns depending on demand and employers.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Common benefits include wellness allowances, occupational pensions, remote work options, and opportunities for further training.