Concrete demolition

What does a Betongdemolerare do? – Tasks and work environment

A Betongdemolerare works with demolishing, breaking, and removing concrete structures within construction and civil engineering projects. Tasks range from selective demolition of load-bearing walls to larger infrastructure projects involving bridges, tunnels, or industrial buildings. The profession often uses both handheld tools and heavy demolition robots to ensure work is efficient and safe. The work environment is often physically demanding, with high safety requirements, as it involves noise, dust, and sometimes working at heights or in confined spaces. Collaboration with other professionals, such as machine operators and site managers, is common to ensure smooth project execution.

Salary development over time

The salary for Betongdemolerare has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 32,900 SEK per month. The following year, it rose to 35 500 SEK, representing an increase of about 7.9%. Between 2023 and 2024, the average salary increased further to 36 400 SEK, which is approximately a 2.5% rise. This positive trend can be partly explained by continued high demand for demolition work in line with increased new construction and renovation projects, as well as safety standards and specialized skills driving up wage levels. Additionally, the shortage of qualified labor in the construction sector has contributed to wage increases, especially in metropolitan regions where competition for workers is fiercest.

Betongdemolerare salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 36 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 35,200 SEK/month (women), 35,300 SEK/month (men)
• Highest salary: 38,900 SEK/month (men), 35,700 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 219 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 96% of what men do
• Regional differences: Highest wages are often found within the regional sector

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a Betongdemolerare usually involves high school education in the Construction and Civil Engineering program, sometimes with specialization in construction vehicles or advanced demolition. In addition to formal education, practical experience is often required, along with certificates for operating certain machinery and safety training. Employers prefer new employees to have completed safety courses or have experience from similar work environments.

• High school education: Construction and Civil Engineering program, 3 years
• Certificates: Machine operator certificates and training in safe handling of asbestos and PCB
• Internship: Apprenticeship or practical training during studies provides valuable experience
• Prerequisites: Some physical strength and good health are often required
• Tips: Additional courses in occupational safety and health are recommended

Common benefits and compensations

Betongdemolerare are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, insurance in case of work injury or illness, and wellness allowances. Other common compensations include overtime pay for work outside regular hours, per diems for work at different locations, and additional pay for particularly risky tasks. Personal protective equipment and work clothing are provided by the employer.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as Betongdemolerare is generally moderate but varies by region and economic cycle in the construction industry. A challenge is the physically demanding nature of the work, which requires good health and endurance, as well as exposure to noise, dust, and heavy lifting. Safety requirements are strict, necessitating ongoing training and vigilance. The profession is also influenced by economic fluctuations—during downturns, project numbers may decrease, while during booms, a shortage of qualified personnel can occur. The shift toward more automated and machine-driven demolition methods makes technical skills increasingly important to remain competitive in the job market.

Tips for aspiring Betongdemolerare

To succeed as a Betongdemolerare, it is important to be meticulous and safety-conscious, as the work often involves risky tasks where mistakes can have serious consequences. Good physical endurance is vital, given long days of heavy work and sometimes working at heights or in confined spaces. Flexibility and adaptability facilitate handling varying tasks across different projects and sites. Teamwork skills are highly valuable, since the work is often performed in teams where clear communication enhances safety and efficiency. An interest in technology and machinery is also beneficial, as modern demolition involves advanced equipment and tools. Finally, continuous further training in safety and new methods helps maintain marketability and allows taking on more complex assignments.

Key facts about Betongdemolerare

• Education level: High school (Construction and Civil Engineering program)
• Work environment: Physically demanding, often outdoors or on construction sites
• Typical employment: Full-time, sometimes shift or project-based
• Demand: 379 job openings in Sweden (2024)
• Special skills: Demolition machinery, safety, material knowledge

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a Betongdemolerare can advance to roles such as site supervisor, demolition machine operator, or specialize in advanced demolition of bridges and large infrastructure. Other career options include training roles in occupational safety and health or project planning for demolition projects. According to the Employment Service, the outlook is positive, with continued high demand for Betongdemolerare as construction and renovation projects increase. Technological development within the demolition industry offers good opportunities for those who pursue ongoing training. Job openings indicate a stable labor market in the long term.

Frequently asked questions about Betongdemolerare

• What is the average salary of a Betongdemolerare?
  - The average salary is 36 400 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn approximately 96% of what men do.
• What education is required to become a Betongdemolerare?
  - High school education, typically the Construction and Civil Engineering program, along with certificates for certain machinery and safety training.
• What does the work environment look like?
  - The work environment is physically demanding with high safety standards, often outdoors or in construction settings.
• What career opportunities are available?
  - Opportunities for advancement to site supervisor, machine operator, or specialization in advanced demolition.
• How is the job market for Betongdemolerare?
  - The demand is good, with many job openings and stable future prospects.
• What is the hourly wage for Betongdemolerare?
  - The hourly wage averages at 219 SEK.