Youth assistant

What does a ungdomsassistent do? – Tasks and work environment

A ungdomsassistent works to support and guide young people in daily life, often within schools, youth centers, residential care homes, or other environments where youth gather. Tasks include creating safe and meaningful activities, providing social support, listening, and helping young people manage difficulties. The role also involves collaboration with other professionals such as social pedagogues, school counselors, and sometimes police or social services. The work environment can vary but is often characterized by high engagement, flexible hours, and a significant personal responsibility to build positive relationships with youth.

Salary development over time

The salary for a ungdomsassistent has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,200 SEK per month, rising to 34 800 in 2023. In 2024, the salary has increased further to 36 100, representing a total increase of about 8.7% over three years. This positive trend reflects an increased demand for social work and initiatives aimed at youth, as society's focus on preventative work and support for young people has strengthened. At the same time, salary development remains relatively steady, indicating stability rather than rapid changes within the profession.

Ungdomsassistent salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 36 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,800 SEK/month (female, public sector)
• Highest salary: 41,500 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, research education)
• Average male salary: 36 500 SEK/month
• Average female salary: 35 900 SEK/month
• Women’s salary as a percentage of men’s: 98%
• Hourly rate (average): 217 SEK

Education and qualifications

To work as a ungdomsassistent, a high school diploma with a focus on children and leisure, social work, or similar is usually required. Many employers also value experience working with youth, and sometimes specific courses in conflict management or leadership. Formal university education is not always necessary but can be advantageous, especially for roles with greater responsibility or within the municipal sector.

• High school diploma: Child and leisure program (3 years)
• YH/KY training: Social pedagogue or treatment assistant (1–2 years)
• Courses/certifications: For example, conflict management, motivational interviewing
• Internship/experience: Previous work with youth is often meritorious
• Prerequisites: Usually a high school diploma, sometimes a criminal record check

Common benefits and compensations

It is common for ungdomsassistent to have access to wellness allowances, pension schemes, and sometimes professional development days. Several employers also offer supervision, work clothes, and flexible working hours, especially for evening and weekend work. If needed, subsidized meals or travel allowances may also be provided depending on the workplace.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a ungdomsassistent is considered balanced, meaning that the number of applicants matches the number of available jobs. Currently, there are 237 available positions within the treatment assistant and social pedagogue professions, which include ungdomsassistent. Challenges in the profession often involve managing complex social situations, building trust with youth from diverse backgrounds, and sometimes working under stressful conditions. The work environment can be both mentally and emotionally demanding, especially when dealing with conflicts, substance abuse, or mental health issues among youth. At the same time, the role offers the opportunity to make a real difference in young people's lives, which attracts many to the profession.

Tips for those who want to become a ungdomsassistent

To succeed as a ungdomsassistent, it is good to combine a genuine interest in youth with high sensitivity and patience. Being flexible and able to quickly adapt to new situations makes it easier to handle unexpected challenges. Good teamwork skills are important, as the work often involves collaboration with other professionals and sharing experiences and solutions. Developing communication skills, both in conversations with youth and in contact with colleagues, facilitates the work and builds trust. Curiosity and the willingness to continuously learn, for example through courses in conflict management, strengthen opportunities for development in the profession. Showing empathy and the ability to see others' perspectives is a crucial trait, especially when difficult conversations or situations arise. Finally, resilience and perseverance are valuable, as long-term work often yields the best results.

Key facts about ungdomsassistent

• Average salary: 36 100 SEK/month
• Education level: High school diploma or vocational college
• Work environment: Varies, often in schools, residential care, or youth centers
• Number of job openings: 237 (2024, nationwide)
• Gender salary distribution: Women earn 98% of what men do

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a ungdomsassistent, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as social pedagogue, treatment assistant, or youth worker supervisor. Some choose to further their education to become a social worker or pursue broader roles within social services. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the job market for treatment assistants and social pedagogues is medium-sized and expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. This indicates that demand for ungdomsassistenters is stable, with a continued balance between trained professionals and available positions. Regional variations may exist, but nationally there is a constant need for competent staff in the field.

Frequently asked questions about ungdomsassistent

• What does a ungdomsassistent earn?
  - The average salary for a ungdomsassistent is 36 100 SEK per month in 2024.
• What is the salary range for a ungdomsassistent?
  - The lowest reported salary is 31,800 SEK and the highest is 41,500 SEK, depending on education, sector, and experience.
• Is higher education required to become a ungdomsassistent?
  - No, usually a high school diploma with a focus on children and leisure is sufficient, but additional training can be advantageous.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 98% of what men do within the profession.
• What workplaces can a ungdomsassistent work at?
  - Common workplaces include schools, residential care homes, youth centers, and social services.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The outlook is stable with moderate opportunities for employment and unchanged demand in the coming years.
• What is required to get a job as a ungdomsassistent?
  - Besides a high school diploma, experience working with youth and sometimes specific courses or a criminal record check are often necessary.