Investigation assistant, social services

What does an investigation assistant in social services do? – Tasks and work environment

An investigation assistant in social services primarily assists case officers and social workers with investigations within the social services sector. Tasks include collecting and compiling information, documentation, contacting clients and external stakeholders, and providing administrative support in case management. Investigation assistants contribute to quality-assured decision-making and ensure compliance with laws and guidelines. The work is often team-based, requiring collaboration and precision, and the environment is characterized by high pace and demands for confidentiality and professional conduct.

Salary development over time

Salaries for investigation assistants in social services have shown stable and clearly positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 32,100 SEK per month, increasing to 33 500 SEK in 2023. The latest recorded average salary for 2024 is 35 000 SEK per month. This represents an overall increase of approximately 9% over three years. This development reflects increased demand for qualified administrative staff in social services, as well as general salary adjustments within the public sector to attract and retain expertise. Gender differences persist but have decreased slightly during this period. Regional variations exist, but the overall trend is cautiously upward.

Investigation assistant, social services salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 35 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 32,300 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 36,900 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 210 SEK
• Women: 34 900 SEK/month (98% of men's salary)
• Men: 35 700 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Some variation, but generally small differences between regions

Education and qualifications

The educational path for investigation assistants in social services varies, but the most common is a high school diploma with an administrative or social science focus, often supplemented with post-secondary courses. Experience in social work, case handling, or administration is advantageous. Some employers also require university-level courses in social work or law, especially in larger or more complex organizations.

• High school diploma: Social science, economics, or administrative focus (3 years)
• Post-secondary courses: In administration, social work, or law
• Work experience: Meritorious in administration or social work
• Internships: Internships or trainee positions may be available
• Prerequisites: Good computer skills, fluent in Swedish, spoken and written

Common benefits and compensations

Investigation assistants in social services are often covered by collective agreements, which include occupational pensions, wellness allowances, and insurances. Other common benefits include flexitime, subsidized lunches, and opportunities for skills development through internal and external training. Parental leave and holiday compensation according to law and agreements are standard in the profession.

Challenges and competition

Demand for investigation assistants within social services remains relatively stable, with 758 job openings in the profession. However, competition may vary depending on region and employer. Challenges in the role include high work pace, demands for accuracy, and the ability to handle complex cases with sometimes sensitive content. The lack of clear national guidelines can cause differences in tasks between municipalities. For those wishing to develop further, opportunities for additional training and internal career progression are often crucial.

Tips for those wanting to become investigation assistants in social services

To succeed as an investigation assistant in social services, it is beneficial to have a structured approach and a good sense of organization, as the role involves managing many cases simultaneously. Being attentive and empathetic facilitates contact with clients and colleagues, while strong communication skills are essential for navigating between stakeholders and authorities. Patience and a methodical work style are also important, especially during investigations requiring thorough documentation. Gaining experience through internships or summer jobs in social work can be valuable. Continuously updating knowledge of relevant laws and guidelines provides a competitive edge, and showing engagement with societal issues is often appreciated. Finally, flexibility and a positive attitude towards change are important, as the organization often evolves with new needs.

Key facts about investigation assistants in social services

• Average salary: 35 000 SEK/month
• Salary range: 32,300–36,900 SEK/month
• Education level: High school diploma with additional courses
• Work environment: Office-based, fast-paced, varied contacts
• Number of vacancies: 758 in the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an investigation assistant in social services, there are good opportunities for further development within the organization. Many choose to pursue further education to become social workers, case officers, or specialists in areas such as children and youth or substance abuse treatment. Other career paths include administrative roles or team leadership. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that it is difficult to assess the job outlook due to limited data, but there is a stable need for expertise across the social insurance case handling profession. The chances of employment are therefore good, especially for those flexible with location and eager to develop their skills.

Frequently asked questions about investigation assistants in social services

• What does an investigation assistant in social services earn?
  - The average salary is 35 000 SEK per month, ranging between 32,300 and 36,900 SEK.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn an average of 34 900 SEK, which is 98% of men's average salary of 35 700 SEK.
• What education is required?
  - High school diploma with an administrative or social science focus is most common, often supplemented with courses in social work or law.
• What does the job market look like?
  - There are 758 job openings in the profession, and demand remains stable although exact forecasts are unavailable.
• What are the most common job duties?
  - Gathering and compiling information, documentation, contact with clients, and administrative support in case management.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Some variation may occur, but generally differences across regions are small.
• What benefits are usually included?
  - Occupational pension, wellness allowance, insurances, flexitime, and opportunities for skills development are common benefits.