Toimihenkilö

Toimihenkilö is a Finnish term that translates roughly to "salaried employee" or "non-manual worker." It generally refers to individuals employed in occupations that require specialized knowledge, skills, or training, typically in administrative, technical, or professional roles, as opposed to manual labor. Historically, the concept distinguished between blue-collar workers (työväenluokka) and white-collar workers (toimihenkilöt).

In contemporary Finnish society and labor law, the distinction between toimihenkilö and other employee categories is less rigid than it once was. However, the term is still commonly used in collective bargaining agreements and in discussions about labor market structures. Toimihenkilöt often have different employment terms and conditions compared to manual laborers, which can include differing pay scales, vacation entitlements, and contractual obligations.

The sectors where toimihenkilöt are most commonly found include administration, finance, IT, marketing, engineering, and healthcare. Their roles are crucial for the functioning of businesses and public services, focusing on planning, coordination, analysis, and the application of expertise. The educational background of a toimihenkilö can range from vocational training to university degrees. The term emphasizes the nature of the work performed rather than a strict social class definition.