Purchaser

What does a procurement officer do? – Tasks and work environment

A procurement officer is responsible for purchasing and contracts in both public and private sectors. Tasks include analyzing needs, developing specifications, conducting tender processes, and negotiating with suppliers. The role requires precision, legal understanding, and good communication skills, as the procurement officer must ensure that purchases comply with applicable laws and regulations. The work environment is often office-based and characterized by periods of high pace, especially during larger procurements or approaching deadlines.

Salary development over time

The salary for procurement officers has shown stable and positive growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 44,600 SEK per month, increasing to 47 600 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 49 500 SEK, which represents an increase of just over 11% over three years. This salary increase can partly be explained by the growing need for qualified expertise in public procurement and more complex regulations that require more educated and experienced professionals. Demand has been stable, but higher requirements for digitalization and sustainability mean that specialized procurement officers are valued higher in the labor market. Salary levels are expected to continue developing as the profession becomes even more central to organizational strategies.

Procurement officer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 49 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,100 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 56,900 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 298 SEK
• Men's average salary: 52 200 SEK/month
• Women's average salary: 47 000 SEK/month
• Women earn: 90% of men's salary

Education and qualifications

To work as a procurement officer, a post-secondary education in economics, law, logistics, or similar fields is often required. Many employers prefer candidates with additional courses in public procurement or purchasing. Practical experience in negotiation, project management, and working with legislation is advantageous for success in the role.

• Post-secondary education: 2–3 years in economics, law, or logistics
• Certification courses: Public procurement, purchasing, or similar
• Internships: Often advantageous, especially in the public sector
• Prerequisites: High school diploma, sometimes relevant work experience
• Online courses: Available for further training

Common benefits and compensations

Procurement officers are often offered benefits such as flexible working hours, wellness allowances, and remote work options. It is also common to have occupational pension schemes, skills development, and in some cases extra vacation days. Benefits may vary depending on the employer and sector.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for procurement officers is characterized by balance, with supply and demand relatively evenly distributed. There are approximately 550 available positions in the profession, indicating stable demand. The main challenge is often staying updated on changing laws and regulations, as well as developing negotiation and analytical skills for complex business situations. Competition for the most attractive positions can be tough, especially in larger companies and the public sector where requirements for education and experience are high. Digitalization and sustainability demands also make continuous learning increasingly important to maintain competitiveness.

Tips for those who want to become procurement officers

To succeed as a procurement officer, it is good to combine analytical skills with strong communication abilities. Gaining early experience through internships and summer jobs in purchasing or administration provides an advantage for future employment. Precision is crucial, especially when working with contracts and legal documents, to avoid mistakes. An interest in laws and regulations facilitates understanding of the complex procurement framework. Being solution-oriented and resilient is important, as many processes have strict deadlines and can be time-consuming. Additionally, the ability to collaborate and build good relationships with colleagues and suppliers is essential, since procurement work often involves teamwork and extensive dialogue. Finally, curiosity and a willingness to stay updated are advantageous, as the profession evolves quickly with new demands related to sustainability and digitalization.

Key facts about procurement officers

• Education level: Post-secondary education (2–3 years) recommended
• Work environment: Office-based, often flexible working hours
• Demand: Around 550 available jobs in the profession
• Gender equality: Women earn 90% of men's salaries
• Common employment form: Full-time, both private and public sectors

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a procurement officer can advance to senior roles such as strategic procurement specialist, purchasing manager, or project leader for larger procurements. There are also opportunities to specialize in areas like sustainable purchasing, IT procurement, or legal affairs. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, the job prospects for procurement officers are moderate nationally, with demand expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. The profession suits those who want to combine business acumen with societal benefit and enjoy a dynamic environment where laws and regulations are constantly evolving.

Frequently asked questions about procurement officers

• What does a procurement officer earn?
  - The average salary for a procurement officer is 49 500 SEK per month.
• How do gender differences in procurement officer salaries look?
  - Women earn on average 47 000 SEK and men 52 200 SEK, which means women earn approximately 90% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a procurement officer?
  - A post-secondary education in economics, law, or logistics is recommended, often 2–3 years.
• What are the future prospects for procurement officers?
  - Job opportunities are moderate, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a procurement officer?
  - The highest salary is 56,900 SEK and the lowest is 38,100 SEK per month.
• Who are the most common employers for procurement officers?
  - Larger private companies and the public sector, especially municipalities and government agencies.
• What personal qualities are important for a procurement officer?
  - Analytical skills, accuracy, strong communication abilities, and interest in laws and regulations.