Youth secretary, social services

What does a youth secretary in social services do? – Tasks and work environment

A youth secretary in social services works to provide support, guidance, and assistance to young people facing vulnerable life situations. Tasks often include investigations, counseling, developing action plans, and coordinating efforts with other authorities and stakeholders. Contact with youth and their families occurs both at offices and in their home environments, requiring flexibility and the ability to adapt to different settings. The work is characterized by a fast pace, varied challenges, and the need for ongoing dialogue with colleagues, schools, and other societal institutions.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for youth secretaries in social services has steadily increased. In 2022, the average salary was 37,500 SEK per month, which increased to 38 800 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 40 300 SEK per month, representing an increase of approximately 7.5% over the three-year period. This salary development reflects a rising demand for competent social workers, while employers need to offer competitive salaries to retain and attract staff. The trend indicates that the profession is valued higher, especially as societal challenges related to youth grow and the complexity of tasks increases. Women have experienced slightly stronger salary growth than men, influencing the overall average.

Youth secretary, social services salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 40 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,800 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 54,300 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 242 SEK
• Women: 40 400 SEK/month (102% of men's salary)
• Men: 39 500 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary between municipalities and regions, but differences are generally moderate.

Education and qualifications

To work as a youth secretary in social services, a university degree in social work is generally required, often with specialization in social pedagogy or the social worker program. Practical experience working with youth and knowledge of social legislation are highly meritorious. Many employers also require specific courses or certifications in child and youth care, LVU (the Law on the Care of Young Persons), and interview techniques.

• Social worker degree: University education, 3–3.5 years
• Courses/certification: Additional training in children and youth, LVU, and interview techniques
• Internship: Work placement during education is common
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies
• Tip: Engage in youth activities or volunteer projects to strengthen your application

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for youth secretaries in social services include pension plans, wellness allowances, flexitime, supervision, and opportunities for skills development. Some employers also offer extra vacation days, mentoring, and remote work options as needed. Compensation for unsociable hours and on-call duties may occur, especially when working with urgent interventions outside office hours.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as youth secretary in social services is balanced, according to the Swedish Employment Agency. The number of available jobs is relatively stable, but the workload can be high, especially in larger municipalities and areas with increased social issues. Challenges often include complex cases, high documentation demands, and coordinating efforts across multiple actors. Managing emotionally taxing situations is part of everyday life, which requires good mental health and professional distance. At the same time, demand for the role is expected to increase over the next five years, creating good opportunities for those who want to develop in the field.

Tips for those who want to become youth secretaries in social services

To succeed as a youth secretary in social services, it is good to combine engagement with structured work methods. Being attentive and empathetic helps in meetings with youth in difficult situations, while analytical skills facilitate investigations and documentation. Stress resilience is crucial for handling urgent interventions while maintaining work quality. For those who are communicative and collaborative, it becomes easier to work with colleagues and other authorities. Further training in interview techniques and legal matters provides advantages when legislation and individual needs must be balanced. Finally, a genuine interest in youth issues and social development is an important driver for thriving and making a difference in the profession.

Key facts about youth secretaries in social services

• Education level: Social worker degree, 3–3.5 years
• Work environment: Varied, both office- and field-based
• Demand: Moderate with increasing forecast over five years
• Number of available jobs: 237 (within the social worker group)
• Common work form: Full-time, often daytime but some on-call duties may occur

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a youth secretary in social services, opportunities open to advance to specialist roles, such as method supervisor, coordinator, or manager within the children and youth unit. Some choose to further their education in psychotherapy, law, or leadership to take on more qualified tasks or work in training and development. According to the Swedish Employment Agency, the job market is balanced, but demand is expected to increase over five years. There are good development opportunities for those who want to deepen their expertise or take on more strategic roles. For those interested in research or academia, opportunities also exist to work within universities or colleges.

Frequently asked questions about youth secretaries in social services

• What does a youth secretary in social services earn?
  - The average salary is 40 300 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and region.
• What education is required to become a youth secretary?
  - A social worker degree at university level is standard, often supplemented with courses in children and youth.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 40 400 SEK and men 39 500 SEK, which means women earn 102% of men's salaries.
• What does the job market look like?
  - Employment opportunities are moderate, and demand is expected to increase over the next five years.
• What are the main challenges in the profession?
  - High workload, complex cases, and emotionally demanding situations are common challenges.
• What benefits are usually offered?
  - Pension plans, wellness allowances, flexitime, supervision, and opportunities for skills development are common benefits.
• How can one develop further in the profession?
  - There are opportunities to advance to specialist or managerial roles and to pursue further education in related areas.