Custody investigator

What does a custody investigator do? – Tasks and work environment

A custody investigator primarily works within social services and is responsible for investigating issues related to children's custody, residence, and visitation, for example, in cases of separation or conflicts between parents. The work involves collecting information from parents, schools, authorities, and other relevant parties, conducting home visits, holding conversations with children and adults, and compiling comprehensive reports that serve as the basis for court decisions. The work environment is often characterized by high pace, complex cases, and meetings with people in crisis, which demands structure, empathy, and stress resilience. Custody investigators typically work in teams with other social workers and often have support from supervision and collegial networks.

Salary development over time

Salaries for custody investigators have steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,500 SEK per month, rising to 38 800 SEK in 2023 and further up to 40 300 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of about 7.5% over the three-year period, which is slightly above the average for similar public sector professions. The positive salary trend can largely be explained by increased demand for social workers and higher requirements for specialist competence in family law. Changes in legislation and increased case complexity have also contributed to a higher valuation of the profession in the labor market. Women have experienced a slightly faster salary development than men, which is reflected in the current gender distribution of salaries.

Custody investigator 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: Data varies, but generally somewhat higher in metropolitan regions

Education and qualifications

To work as a custody investigator, a degree in social work (sociology) of at least 3.5 years is generally required. Many employers also seek experience in social work and especially knowledge of family law. Practical experience from social services, particularly in working with children and youth, is often advantageous. Further training and courses in areas such as counseling methods or law can be beneficial.

• Sociology degree: 3.5 years (210 ECTS) at university/higher education
• Further training: Courses in family law, counseling methods, children's rights
• Internship: Included in the education, often within social services
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility + special eligibility for the social work program
• Tips for choosing: Select internships and part-time jobs within the children's and family unit of social services

Common benefits and compensations

A custody investigator in the public sector is often offered benefits such as flexible working hours, wellness grants, subsidized lunch, and opportunities for professional development. Occupational pension and generous vacation conditions are also common, contributing to a secure and stable employment.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a custody investigator is described as moderate, with a balance between the number of qualified applicants and available jobs. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, demand is expected to increase over the next five years, which could lead to more career opportunities for recent graduates. At the same time, the profession is demanding and can be psychologically taxing, as investigations often involve conflicts and difficult family situations. Workload may vary between municipalities and regions, and there is a need for ongoing training to stay updated on legislation and practices.

Tips for those who want to become a custody investigator

To succeed as a custody investigator, it is good to have a strong empathetic ability and be skilled in active listening, which facilitates conversations with both children and adults in sensitive situations. Good analytical skills are important for compiling and interpreting information from various sources, while a structured work approach helps keep track of extensive investigations. Patience and stress resistance are needed as the workload can be high and cases complex. Developing conflict management and interpersonal skills provides security in meetings with families in crisis. It is also wise to actively seek internships within the children's and family unit of social services to gain experience and insight into the profession.

Key facts about custody investigators

• Educational level: Degree in social work (3.5 years)
• Salary range: 34,800–54,300 SEK/month
• Gender difference: Women earn 102 % of what men do
• Work environment: Public sector, high pace, complex cases
• Demand: 237 job openings within the profession (2024)

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a custody investigator, there are opportunities to advance to specialist roles within family law, become a team leader, or take on more qualified investigative assignments. Many progress to roles such as unit manager, method developer, or supervisor within social services. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service show that demand for social workers and custody investigators is expected to increase over the next five years, especially in metropolitan regions and municipalities with high population growth. In total, there are 237 job openings in the profession, indicating good opportunities for both recent graduates and experienced professionals.

Frequently asked questions about custody investigators

• What does a custody investigator earn?
  - The average salary is 40 300 SEK per month, with a range between 34,800 and 54,300 SEK depending on experience and workplace.
• What education is required to become a custody investigator?
  - A degree in social work of 3.5 years is required, often with a focus on social work and family law.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 102% of men's salaries in the profession.
• What is the job market like for custody investigators?
  - The demand is currently considered moderate but is expected to increase in the coming years, with 237 job openings.
• What personal qualities are needed?
  - Empathy, analytical skills, stress resistance, and good communication skills are particularly important.
• What benefits does a custody investigator have?
  - Common benefits include flexible working hours, wellness grants, occupational pension, and opportunities for professional development.
• What are the career paths?
  - Many advance to specialist roles, team leaders, or managerial positions within social services after a few years of experience.