Boat guard

What does a boat guard do? – Tasks and work environment

A boat guard primarily works to monitor and protect boats, harbors, and maritime facilities against theft, vandalism, and unauthorized access. Tasks include patrolling docks and boat slips, checking locks and security devices, and reporting irregularities and suspicious activity. The work often takes place around the clock, involving night and weekend shifts. The environment can be weather-exposed and requires good physical condition and the ability to act quickly in incidents. Collaboration with police and other security actors occurs regularly, especially in larger harbors or during high-activity periods.

Salary development over time

The profession of boat guard has shown steady positive salary growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,900 SEK per month, increasing to 32 800 SEK in 2023 and further to 34 300 SEK in 2024. The total increase corresponds to approximately 7.5% over three years, which is slightly above the average for similar security roles. The salary increase can partly be explained by increased demand for security services in maritime environments, as well as employers competing for experienced security personnel with specialized skills. The industry’s demand for flexible working hours and availability has also contributed to higher salary levels. At the same time, there is some salary variation within the profession, influenced by experience and the size of the workplace.

Boat guard salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 34 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 33,200 SEK (female, regional sector, 3-year high school education)
• Highest salary: 37,600 SEK (female, public sector, pre-high school education)
• Highest salary for men: 36,100 SEK
• Lowest salary for men: 34,200 SEK
• Hourly wage (average): 206 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 33 500 SEK, men 34 600 SEK (women 97% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: No specific data available

Education and qualifications

To work as a boat guard, a basic security guard training is generally required, often supplemented with courses in maritime safety procedures. The training can be completed through private training providers or by the employer. Experience from similar security assignments is advantageous, and some employers also require a driver’s license and good swimming skills. The ability to work independently and make quick decisions under pressure are important qualities for the profession.

• Formal education: Security guard training (basic, approximately 2-4 weeks)
• Certifications: Special courses in maritime environments and safety
• Practical training: Often internships or trainee periods with an employer
• Prerequisites: Approved background check, driver’s license, swimming skills
• Tips: Experience in security or maritime industries is advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to the base salary, overtime pay is often offered for inconvenient hours, especially night and weekend shifts. Many employers provide work clothing, wellness allowances, and sometimes training support for further development. Insurance and pension contributions are standard, and some may also have access to employee discounts within maritime activities.

Competition and challenges

The competition for boat guard positions is moderate, but the job market is strongly affected by seasonal variations and geographical differences. During peak season, demand for extra staff increases, while the winter months may see fewer assignments. A challenge is that the profession requires high flexibility and readiness to handle emergency situations, sometimes under difficult weather conditions. Recruitment can be challenging, as employers struggle to find candidates with the right skills and availability. At the same time, turnover is relatively high, creating both opportunities and challenges for those looking to establish themselves in the profession.

Tips for those interested in becoming a boat guard

To succeed as a boat guard, it is good to have a strong sense of order and be attentive to details, as safety often depends on noticing small irregularities. Flexibility is crucial, as working hours vary and sometimes require efforts at inconvenient times. A calm and steady temperament helps in emergency situations where quick decisions are needed under pressure. Physical endurance is also important, especially since work is often outdoors in changing weather. Social skills and the ability to communicate with different people facilitate collaboration with colleagues and other actors. An interest in boating and maritime environments contributes to long-term satisfaction in the role. Finally, taking advantage of opportunities for further education or specialized courses can strengthen your position in the job market.

Key facts about Boat Guard

• Education level: Security guard training (basic, 2–4 weeks)
• Work environment: Outdoors, maritime environments, varying weather
• Work form: Shift work, often nights and weekends
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide
• Special skills: Safety procedures in maritime environments, swimming skills

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a boat guard, there are opportunities to advance to leadership roles, such as supervisor or coordinator for security work in larger harbors. Many also choose to further their education in the security industry and can then move into roles such as security manager, trainer, or consultant for maritime security solutions. According to the employment agency’s forecasts, the demand for security guards and orderlies remains high nationwide, with good prospects for employment and unchanged demand over the next five years. However, recruitment is challenged by difficulties in finding the right skills and relatively high staff turnover. Currently, there are 191 job openings in the profession, indicating an active job market for those wanting to establish themselves as a boat guard.

Frequently asked questions about Boat Guard

• What does a Boat Guard earn?
  - A boat guard has an average salary of 34 300 SEK per month. The highest salary is 37,600 SEK and the lowest 33,200 SEK.
• What are the gender differences in the profession?
  - Women earn 33 500 SEK on average, which is 97% of men's average salary of 34 600 SEK.
• Is special training required to become a boat guard?
  - Yes, basic security guard training is required, often supplemented with courses for maritime environments.
• What are the working hours for a boat guard?
  - Work is performed in shifts, often during nights and weekends, with schedules varying depending on season and workplace.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The employment agency assesses that job opportunities are abundant and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - There is some variation, but detailed data on regional differences is currently unavailable.
• What benefits are common in the profession?
  - Common benefits include overtime pay, wellness allowances, work clothing, and insurance.