Boatman, Swedish Maritime Administration

What does a boatman at the Swedish Maritime Administration do? – Tasks and work environment

A boatman at the Swedish Maritime Administration primarily assists with pilotage, manages mooring and unmooring of vessels, and performs maintenance on boats and equipment. The work mainly takes place in port environments, where the boatman ensures that ships can safely and efficiently dock and depart. Tasks often include handling ropes, communicating with crew members, and contributing to safety onboard and at the quay. The boatman works closely with pilots, captains, and other port personnel, and the work environment involves physically demanding tasks and a strong focus on safety. Shift work and standby duties are common, especially in larger ports and during periods of high vessel traffic.

Salary development over time

The salary for a boatman at the Swedish Maritime Administration has shown steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 47,600 SEK per month, increasing to 48 600 in 2023. The latest update for 2024 shows an average salary of 50 500, representing an increase of over 6% from 2022 to 2024. This positive trend can partly be explained by increased demand for qualified personnel in the maritime sector and a growing emphasis on safety and competence. Since the profession often requires both experience and specialized training, employers have been willing to raise wages to retain and attract staff. Salary development also reflects regional variations and differences between private and public employers.

Boatman salary at the Swedish Maritime Administration – complete overview

• Average salary: 50 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 44,900 SEK/month (male, private sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 55,300 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education of at least 3 years)
• Hourly wage: 304 SEK
• Gender differences: Salary data for women is unavailable, but the highest salary for women is 54,900 SEK/month, and the lowest is 48,700 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data on regional salary differences is unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a boatman at the Swedish Maritime Administration, a high school maritime program or equivalent experience is usually required. Many employers also seek safety and first aid certificates, as well as practical experience onboard ships or in ports. A combination of formal education, practical training, and specialized courses increases the chances of employment in the profession.

• High school education: Maritime program, 3 years
• Special certifications: Basic Safety, fire training, first aid
• Practical experience: Often required, such as work experience or internships on ships/ports
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition and swimming skills
• Tips: Courses in work environment and safety are advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Typical benefits for boatmen at the Swedish Maritime Administration include shift and night work supplements, wellness allowances, pension schemes, and sometimes opportunities for training or further development at the employer's expense. Compensation for standby duty and overtime, as well as access to work clothing and protective equipment, are also common.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as a boatman at the Swedish Maritime Administration is limited but can vary depending on location and season. One of the main challenges is the high safety and physical requirements, which means not everyone is suitable for the profession. Shift work and working under difficult weather conditions also demand endurance and flexibility. Good teamwork skills and the ability to handle stressful situations are crucial, especially during high vessel traffic or incidents in ports. In some locations, it may be difficult to secure permanent positions, increasing competition among applicants.

Tips for aspiring boatmen at the Swedish Maritime Administration

To succeed as a boatman at the Swedish Maritime Administration, it is beneficial to have strong teamwork skills and be flexible, as the work often involves quick shifts and collaboration under pressure. Building physical endurance and being a good swimmer enhances safety and practical ability. An interest in technology and maintenance is an advantage, as tasks often include caring for boats and equipment. A high safety awareness and meticulousness are required, as small mistakes can have serious consequences in port environments. Taking extra courses in safety, first aid, and fire fighting makes you more attractive on the job market. Clear and effective communication, even under stress, is important for team coordination. Initiative and responsibility are also valued, especially in situations requiring quick action.

Key facts about boatmen at the Swedish Maritime Administration

• Education level: High school maritime education or equivalent
• Work environment: Ports, ships, outdoors in varying weather
• Typical work arrangement: Shift work with standby duties
• Demand: 412 job openings in the profession (2024)
• Special skills: Safety certificates and practical skills

Career paths and future prospects

After gaining some experience as a boatman at the Swedish Maritime Administration, opportunities exist to advance to more specialized roles, such as pilot assistant or supervisor within port operations. Some choose to further qualify as ship officers or take on greater responsibilities related to safety and training. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, no specific forecast is made for the boatman profession, but within the ship officer category, there are 412 job openings with stable demand. Due to limited data, it is difficult to provide an exact outlook for the future, but ongoing skills shortages in the maritime sector suggest good employment and development opportunities.

Frequently asked questions about boatmen at the Swedish Maritime Administration

• What does a boatman at the Swedish Maritime Administration earn?
  - The average salary is 50 500 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience and education.
• What education is required to become a boatman?
  - A high school maritime program or equivalent experience, along with safety certificates, is usually required.
• What is the work environment like for a boatman?
  - The work takes place in ports and onboard ships, often outdoors and under changing weather conditions.
• Are there good job opportunities?
  - Currently, there are 412 job openings, but competition varies between locations.
• What are the key qualities for the profession?
  - Teamwork skills, flexibility, safety awareness, and good physical condition are essential.
• How big is the difference between the highest and lowest salary?
  - The lowest salary is 44,900 SEK, and the highest is 55,300 SEK per month for men, slightly lower for women.
• Can I further my education within the profession?
  - Yes, there are opportunities to take on greater responsibility or pursue further training, such as becoming a ship officer.