Investigation secretary, public administration

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

An investigation secretary within public administration is responsible for preparing decision materials, investigating social issues, and analyzing complex cases for government, municipal, or regional authorities. Tasks often include collecting and processing data, writing reports, consultation responses, and proposals, as well as preparing and presenting cases to decision-makers. The work is often project-based, with close collaboration with other investigators, lawyers, and experts in various fields. The work environment is generally office-based and characterized by a fast pace, high demands for accuracy, and good ability to meet deadlines.

Salary development over time

The salary for investigation secretaries in public administration has shown a stable increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,200 SEK, which increased to 44 700 SEK in 2023 and reached 46 500 SEK in 2024. The total increase over the period amounts to about 7.6%, which is slightly higher than the average for many other professions within the public sector. The trend can be partly explained by increased demand for qualified investigative skills, especially in areas such as digitization, legal security, and social planning. Additionally, a shift towards more complex and specialized tasks has led employers to raise salary levels in some cases to attract and retain the right expertise.

Investigation secretary in public administration salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 46 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,200 SEK/month (female, government sector, lower education)
• Highest salary: 60,200 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, research degree)
• Hourly wage (average): 280 SEK
• Women earn: 45 300 SEK/month (93% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 48 800 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary between larger cities and rural areas, with higher average salaries in metropolitan regions.

Education and qualifications

To work as an investigation secretary in public administration, a university degree is generally required, often in social sciences, law, political science, or economics. Many employers value experience in qualified investigative work and strong analytical skills. In addition to formal education, supplementary courses or certifications in investigative methodology and public law can be advantageous.

• Formal degree: Bachelor's (3 years) or master's (5 years) in a relevant field
• Certifications: Courses in investigative methodology, public law, or project management
• Internships and traineeships: Internships or trainee programs within authorities can provide valuable experience
• Prerequisites: Strong analytical ability, written communication, and experience in report writing
• Tips for choosing: Specialization in political science, law, or economics increases employment opportunities

Common benefits and compensations

Investigation secretaries within public administration are often offered benefits such as generous occupational pension, flexitime or remote work options, wellness contributions, and further training. Parental leave and vacation conditions are usually favorable, and employers in the public sector often focus on work environment and professional development.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as investigation secretary within public administration is assessed as moderate, with a relatively balanced recruitment situation according to the Employment Service's forecasts. Challenges often include high demands on analytical ability, good knowledge of public administration, and the ability to handle complex cases within tight timeframes. Digitalization and increased documentation requirements have changed the tasks, requiring ongoing skills development. There is also some competition from related private sector roles, where salary levels can sometimes be higher. To stand out in the job market, relevant education and experience in qualified investigative work are often necessary.

Tips for those wishing to become investigation secretaries in public administration

To succeed as an investigation secretary in public administration, it is good to be analytical and genuinely interested in social issues. Developing strong communication skills makes it easier to write clear reports and collaborate with various stakeholders. Precision is crucial to ensure quality in investigative work, especially when preparing decision materials. Flexibility and the ability to adapt to changing tasks or new regulations are also valuable. Building a network within authorities and participating in relevant training or seminars increases chances of entering the profession. Experience from internships or project work provides a solid foundation, and the ability to work independently is often essential for taking on more advanced assignments.

Key facts about investigation secretaries in public administration

• Educational level: Bachelor's degree or higher in social sciences, law, or economics
• Work environment: Office-based, often project-oriented, with a fast pace
• Typical working arrangement: Full-time with options for flexitime or remote work
• Demand: Moderate, with a balance between supply and demand for labor
• Special skills: Analytical ability, report writing, and knowledge of public law

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years as an investigation secretary in public administration, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as senior investigator, project manager, or head of an investigative unit. Some choose to specialize further in areas like law, social planning, or digitalization. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that job opportunities in the profession are still considered moderate, with demand expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. The competition is relatively balanced nationally, and there is a steady need for qualified investigators in both state and municipal authorities. As of May 2024, there were 758 job openings in the planning and investigation field. Regionally, there may be more opportunities in metropolitan areas, where larger authorities and agencies are often located.

Common questions about investigation secretaries in public administration

• What does an investigation secretary in public administration earn?
  - The average salary is 46 500 SEK per month, but it varies depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What education is required to become an investigation secretary?
  - An academic degree in social sciences, law, or economics is usually required.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn on average 93% of what men do in the profession.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The Employment Service assesses that job opportunities are moderate and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What are the tasks of an investigation secretary?
  - Investigation secretaries investigate and analyze social issues, write reports, and prepare decision documents for authorities.
• What benefits are common in the profession?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, flexitime, wellness contributions, and opportunities for professional development.
• Is remote work possible?
  - Yes, many employers within the public sector offer some opportunities for remote work.