Job Satisfaction and Optimal Experience in a Swedish Governmental Administration—A Mixed Methods Study

Background: Job satisfaction and optimal experiences, often linked to employee engagement and performance, are critical factors for organizational performance. This study investigated job satisfaction and the conditions enabling optimal experiences among employees within a Swedish governmental administration. This study sought to fill a critical gap in understanding job satisfaction within a governmental setting. Method: A mixed methods approach was utilized to collect both quantitative and qualitative data, combining survey data (n = 117) and workshop interviews (n = 14). The quantitative component included measures of job satisfaction, learning, and optimal experience. Results: Optimal experience was strongly associated with job satisfaction and the positive use of knowledge and skills at work. The results also indicated high levels of job satisfaction among participants and frequent opportunities for optimal experience in daily work. The qualitative findings revealed that while employees often felt supported in their roles, organizational constraints and limited autonomy could hinder the consistent occurrence of optimal experience. Participants emphasized the importance of clear communication, prioritization, and a supportive work environment. Conclusion: This study contributed to the understanding of workplace dynamics in governmental organizations, emphasizing the interplay between job satisfaction, knowledge and skills, and optimal experience. The findings underscore the need for addressing organizational barriers to optimal employee experiences within a bureaucratic setting.