Investigator, public administration

What does an investigator in public administration do? – Tasks and work environment

An investigator in public administration primarily works with analyzing, evaluating, and developing activities within the state, municipality, or region. The tasks often include collecting and processing information, conducting interviews, and compiling reports that serve as the basis for decision-making at various levels. The role also involves reviewing legislation, drafting proposals for improvements, and following up on how decisions and policies are implemented in practice. An investigator’s daily work is characterized by a lot of desk work, meetings, and collaboration with other professionals. The work environment is typically office-based, characterized by structured processes and demands for accuracy and analytical skills.

Salary development over time

The profession of investigator in public administration has experienced steady, positive salary growth over the past three years. The average salary was 43,200 SEK in 2022, increased to 44 700 SEK in 2023, and now reaches 46 500 SEK in 2024. This represents an increase of approximately 7.6% over the period, which is slightly higher than the general salary development for civil servants in the public sector. This rise can partly be explained by increased demand for qualified investigators as the need for analyses and evaluations in the administrations has grown. At the same time, higher educational requirements and specialization have contributed to raising salary levels within the profession. Despite these improvements, some differences between genders remain, with men earning slightly higher salaries on average than women.

Investigator, public administration salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 46 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,200 SEK/month (female, government sector, lower education level)
• Highest salary: 60,200 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, doctoral degree)
• Hourly wage: 280 SEK
• Women's average salary: 45 300 SEK (93% of men's salary)
• Men's average salary: 48 800 SEK
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on location and sector

Education and qualifications

To work as an investigator in public administration, a university degree is generally required, often in social sciences, law, political science, or economics. Many employers also value relevant work experience, analytical skills, and very good proficiency in both Swedish and English. Internships, trainee positions, or project work within the public sector can be advantageous when applying for investigator roles.

• Academic degree: Usually a bachelor's (3 years) or master's (5 years) in social sciences, law, or economics
• Relevant courses: Investigation methodology, statistics, and project management
• Internship/trainee: Meritorious for applications, especially within the public sector
• Prerequisites: Strong analytical skills, experience in report writing
• Tips for choosing: Combine academic studies with internships to enhance employability

Common benefits and compensations

Investigators in public administration are often covered by collective agreements that include benefits such as occupational pension, extra vacation days, wellness stipends, and options for flexible hours. Some employers also offer skills development, subsidized lunches, or remote work options depending on company policies.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as investigators in public administration is described as balanced, with moderate opportunities for employment according to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts. The requirements for formal education and analytical competence create a certain entry barrier, but demand remains stable due to the constant need for investigations and analyses in the public sector. Challenges often include managing complex issues, staying updated on legislation, and quickly understanding new areas of activity. Those seeking career advancement should be prepared to compete for the most attractive positions, especially in metropolitan regions.

Tips for those wanting to become investigators in public administration

To succeed as an investigator in public administration, it is good to combine analytical sharpness with the ability to communicate clearly both verbally and in writing. Being structured and meticulous facilitates when large amounts of information need to be compiled and analyzed. Initiative is valuable, especially when investigative tasks require independent work or new perspectives. It is also important to be attentive and collaborative, as many projects require dialogue with various actors and stakeholders. Finally, perseverance and a solution-oriented approach are beneficial, as investigative work often involves long processes and demands handling complex problems.

Key facts about Investigators, public administration

• Average salary: 46 500 SEK/month
• Salary range: 30,200–60,200 SEK/month
• Gender difference: Women earn 93% of men's salary
• Education level: Academic degree, often master's or bachelor's
• Work environment: Office-based, often within state or municipality

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years in the profession, there are opportunities to advance to more qualified investigator roles, project managers, or leadership positions within public administration. Some choose to specialize in a particular field, such as education, environment, or social services, while others move on to strategic roles or policy work at agencies. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, demand for planners and investigators is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, and the recruitment situation is assessed as balanced. There are good opportunities for employment nationwide, and in May 2024, there were 758 available jobs within the profession. Particularly, candidates with experience in investigation methodology, statistics, or law have good chances of finding qualified positions.

Frequently asked questions about Investigators, public administration

• What does an investigator in public administration earn?
  - An investigator in public administration has an average salary of 46 500 SEK per month. The salary range spans from 30,200 SEK to 60,200 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What education is required to become an investigator?
  - Usually, a university degree in social sciences, law, economics, or related fields is required. Internships and experience within the public sector are advantageous.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 93% of what men do within the profession. The average salary for men is 48 800 SEK and for women 45 300 SEK.
• What is the job market like for investigators?
  - The job market is characterized by balance with moderate opportunities for employment and approximately 758 available positions in May 2024.
• What benefits are common for investigators in public administration?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, extra vacation days, wellness stipends, and options for flexible hours or remote work.
• Can you work as an investigator without an academic degree?
  - It is uncommon, as most employers require at least a bachelor's degree and often work experience from the public sector.