Recycling workers

What does a Recycling Worker do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A recycling worker is responsible for collecting, sorting, and sometimes refining different types of waste and recyclable materials. Common tasks include emptying recycling containers, handling hazardous waste, weighing and recording materials, and operating machines that press or sort garbage. The work is often performed outdoors or in industrial facilities and involves physical labor and heavy lifting. The work environment can be noisy and requires good adherence to safety procedures, especially when handling hazardous substances or machinery.

Salary development over time

The salary for recycling workers has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,100 SEK per month. The following year, it increased to 32 100 SEK, representing an increase of about 6.6%. Between 2023 and 2024, the average salary further rose to 32 700 SEK, a growth of just over 1.9%. This positive salary trend can be explained by increased demand for the profession, partly driven by greater focus on sustainability and recycling in society. At the same time, recruitment difficulties for skilled personnel may have contributed to upward pressure on wages. Salary levels are also influenced by education, work experience, and whether the employer is public or private.

Recycling Worker salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 32 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,700 SEK/month (female, private sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 35,000 SEK/month (female, public sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage (average): 196 SEK
• Women's salary relative to men's: 97%
• Average male salary: 32 800 SEK/month
• Average female salary: 31 900 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salaries vary depending on employer and region, but larger cities and public employers often offer slightly higher wages.

Education and qualifications

Generally, no formal vocational training is required to work as a recycling worker, but high school education in areas like transportation, vehicles, or environmental technology is advantageous. Many employers offer internal training and internships, especially for handling hazardous waste. A driver’s license, particularly for heavy trucks, is often a requirement as the job may include driving collection vehicles. Safety training and certifications in environmental and waste management can be beneficial.

• High school education: Focus on transportation, vehicles, or environmental technology
• Certifications: Training for handling hazardous waste may be required
• Driver's license: B-license often required, C-license advantageous
• Internship: Introduction and internships are often offered by employers
• Prerequisites: Good physical health and basic Swedish language skills

Common benefits and compensations

Recycling workers are often offered benefits such as overtime pay for inconvenient hours, wellness allowances, work clothing, and sometimes access to occupational health services. Other common benefits include pension contributions and opportunities for further training in work environment and safety.

Competition and challenges

The profession as a recycling worker is characterized by high demand, but the job market presents a paradoxical situation. While many employers struggle to recruit the right competence, there is also relatively high staff turnover and some part-time employment. Challenges in the profession include physically demanding tasks, risk of injuries, exposure to noise, and handling hazardous substances. Changes in recycling technology and increased environmental requirements also demand higher levels of education and adaptability. Despite this, employment opportunities remain good, especially for those who are flexible and willing to learn new skills.

Tips for those who want to become a Recycling Worker

To succeed as a recycling worker, good physical endurance is beneficial, as the work often involves heavy lifting and long outdoor shifts. A sense of order and accuracy helps during sorting and handling different materials, reducing the risk of mistakes or accidents. Service-minded individuals often thrive in the profession, as contact with colleagues and customers is common. Flexibility is another important trait, as tasks and routines can vary depending on season or changes in recycling systems. Initiative and willingness to further educate oneself are also advantageous, since developments in the environmental field are rapid and new methods are introduced. Having a driver’s license, preferably for heavier vehicles, is often a prerequisite for employment in the profession. Finally, responsibility and the ability to follow safety instructions carefully are crucial, as the work environment can sometimes be risky.

Key facts about Recycling Workers

• Education level: High school education recommended, but not required
• Work environment: Physically demanding and outdoor-based
• Demand: Very good job market, 123 recent job openings
• Typical employment: Full-time, often shift work or irregular hours
• Special skills: Handling hazardous waste and machinery

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years in the profession, opportunities exist to advance to supervisor, machine operator, or specialized environmental technician. Some choose to further their education in logistics, environmental technology, or work management. According to the Swedish Employment Service's forecast for sanitation and recycling workers, demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, indicating a stable job market. Nationally, employment prospects are considered good, but recruitment difficulties occur, and staff turnover is relatively high. For those wishing to develop within the field, opportunities also exist to work in training, environmental coordination, or as consultants in waste management.

Frequently asked questions about Recycling Workers

• What does a Recycling Worker earn?
  - The average salary is 32 700 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, education, and sector.
• How has the salary development looked for recycling workers?
  - Over the past three years, the salary has increased from 30,100 SEK to 32 700 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a recycling worker?
  - High school education is recommended, but not a formal requirement. Driver's licenses and safety training are often advantageous.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 97% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What does the job market look like for recycling workers?
  - The job market is very good with many available positions and stable demand.
• What are the most common job tasks?
  - Collection, sorting, transportation, and handling of various recycling materials, as well as operation of machinery.
• What opportunities for further education are available?
  - Opportunities exist within environmental technology, work management, or specialization in hazardous waste.