Car refiners, car care

What does a car detailer in car care do? – Tasks and work environment

A car detailer in car care is responsible for restoring, cleaning, and protecting a vehicle's interior and exterior through various treatments. Tasks include thorough washing, polishing, waxing of the body, cleaning and reconditioning the interior, engine washing, and treatment of paint and textiles. Many workplaces use advanced equipment and chemicals, requiring precision and safety awareness. The work is often performed in a workshop setting, sometimes in car showrooms or outdoors, and can be physically demanding, requiring both accuracy and strength.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salary development for car detailers in car care has shown variations. In 2022, the average salary was 26,700 SEK, increasing to 30 700 SEK in 2023. This represents an increase of about 15%, likely driven by increased demand and inflation. However, in 2024, the average salary has been adjusted downward to 29 500 SEK, a decrease of over 4% compared to the previous year, possibly due to market adjustments or demand changes. Overall, the profession has experienced positive salary growth, despite some fluctuations, especially during economic shifts. Gender pay gaps remain evident, influencing overall salary data.

Car detailer in car care salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 29 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 23,700 SEK/month (female, public sector)
• Highest salary: 32,600 SEK/month (male, private sector, short training)
• Hourly wage: 177 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 92% of men's salary (men: 30 100 SEK, women: 27 600 SEK)
• Regional differences: No specific data available

Education and qualifications

To work as a car detailer specializing in car care, no formal higher education is usually required, but relevant high school education in vehicle technology or equivalent is advantageous. Many employers value practical experience or completed internal training. Some workplaces offer introductory courses and certifications for specific treatments or chemical handling. Self-study and online courses can also complement skill development.

• High school education: Vehicle and transport programs (3 years)
• Certifications: Internal courses in car care and chemical handling
• Internships: Internships or trainee positions are often available
• Prerequisites: No formal requirements, but driver's license and experience are advantageous
• Self-study: Online courses in reconditioning and paint protection

Common benefits and compensation

Car detailers in car care are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, work clothing, and sometimes commissions or bonuses based on performance and customer satisfaction. Other common compensations include shift allowances for evening and weekend work, and opportunities for further training in car care techniques. Employers may also offer employee discounts on car care products and services.

Competition and challenges

Competition for jobs as a car detailer in car care is relatively low nationwide, as demand for services remains high. At the same time, the recruitment situation is paradoxical: there are difficulties finding the right competence, yet unemployment within the profession is relatively high, and many leave the field. Challenges include staying updated on new techniques and chemicals, managing physically demanding tasks, and seasonal variations that can increase workload during certain periods of the year.

Tips for aspiring car detailers in car care

To succeed as a car detailer, it helps to have an eye for detail and a genuine interest in cars. Precision is crucial for delivering high quality and avoiding damage, so practicing accuracy through hands-on exercises is recommended. Physical endurance and good health are important, as the work is often physically demanding and requires standing and moving for extended periods. Flexibility and adaptability to different tasks and workplaces increase employment opportunities. Good communication and teamwork skills are also valuable, especially when customer satisfaction is central. Finally, staying informed about new methods and products in the industry is essential to remain competitive and offer a broad range of services.

Key facts about Car Detailers, car care

• Education level: High school education recommended, but not mandatory
• Work environment: Workshop, car dealership, or outdoor environment
• Typical employment: Full-time or hourly, often daytime
• Demand: Great opportunities for jobs nationwide
• Special skills: Reconditioning, paint protection, interior cleaning

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, many car detailers can advance to supervisor, trainer, or specialist roles in advanced car reconditioning and paint protection. Some choose to start their own business or move into sales of car care products and services. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, job opportunities remain strong nationwide, with demand expected to stay stable over five years. Despite the paradoxical recruitment situation with both skills shortages and unemployment, the outlook for the profession is considered stable due to ongoing demand for car care and reconditioning.

Frequently asked questions about Car Detailers, car care

• What does a car detailer in car care earn?
  - The average salary is 29 500 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, gender, and employer.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries in the profession?
  - Yes, women earn on average 92% of men's salaries (men: 30 100 SEK, women: 27 600 SEK).
• What education is required to become a car detailer in car care?
  - A high school education in vehicle technology is recommended, but there are no formal requirements and much is learned on the job.
• What are the future prospects for car detailers in car care?
  - Job opportunities are plentiful, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What are the most common benefits for car detailers in car care?
  - Benefits include wellness allowances, work clothing, sometimes commissions, and further training.
• What does a typical workday look like for a car detailer in car care?
  - The workday involves reconditioning, polishing, washing, and treating vehicles, often in a workshop or dealership environment.
• Is there opportunity for career development within the profession?
  - Yes, many can become specialists, supervisors, or start their own business within car care.