What does a bus cleaner do? – Tasks and work environment
A bus cleaner is responsible for cleaning and maintaining buses between routes and at the end of the day. Tasks include vacuuming, wiping surfaces, emptying trash bins, and sometimes disinfecting handles and seats. The work is often carried out at bus depots or terminals and can be physically demanding, especially when performed under time pressure to get vehicles back into service quickly. The work environment features shift work, with evening and night shifts common, and it is important to work independently and follow safety routines.
Salary development over time
Bus cleaners have experienced steady salary growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 25,600 SEK, which increased to 26 700 SEK in 2023 and reached 27 600 SEK in 2024. This represents a total salary increase of approximately 7.8% over three years. The salary increase is partly due to increased demand for cleaning services, especially with higher requirements for cleanliness and hygiene in public transport. Union negotiations and efforts to reduce pay gaps among different groups have also played a role. Despite this positive trend, wages are still at a level where it is important to stay updated on industry developments to ensure competitive conditions.
Bus cleaner salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 27 600 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 25,600 SEK/month (men), 25,700 SEK/month (women)
- Highest salary: 29,700 SEK/month (men), 28,500 SEK/month (women)
- Hourly wage: 166 SEK
- Gender differences: Women earn 96% of what men do
- Regional differences: Salary variations may occur depending on location and employer
Education and qualifications
To work as a bus cleaner, usually no formal education beyond compulsory school is required, but experience in cleaning or similar tasks is an advantage. Many employers offer internal training and introduction to safety routines. Personal qualities such as thoroughness and responsibility are highly valued. Some workplaces may require employees to undergo safety training or hygiene courses.
- Educational requirements: Compulsory schooling
- Courses: Introductory training in cleaning techniques and safety
- Practical training: On-the-job training is often provided
- Certifications: Hygiene and safety courses may be available
- Pre-requisites: No prior experience necessary but beneficial
Flexibility is an important trait for bus cleaners, as working hours often vary with the need to quickly clean vehicles between routes. The profession offers the opportunity to work both independently and in teams, which can suit different personalities and life situations.
Common benefits and compensations
Bus cleaners often have access to benefits such as overtime pay for evening and night shifts, wellness allowances, work clothing, and protective equipment. Some employers also offer subsidized meals or training in work environment and safety. Occupational pensions and insurance are usually included in collective agreement employment.
Challenges and competition
The profession of bus cleaner is characterized by a paradoxical situation where many work part-time, yet there is a certain shortage of full-time employees. Recruitment difficulties occur, especially for inconvenient working hours. Challenges include monotonous work content and physically demanding tasks, while maintaining high hygiene standards is essential. For those who enjoy routine work and have good physical condition, stable employment opportunities exist. The job can also serve as an entry point into the labor market for individuals without prior experience or vocational training.
Tips for aspiring bus cleaners
To succeed as a bus cleaner, it is helpful to be thorough and able to work in a structured manner even under time pressure. Good physical fitness makes the work easier, as it involves a lot of movement and sometimes heavy lifting. Flexibility and adaptability to varying working hours are advantageous, especially since many shifts may be in the evenings or nights. Responsibility is important, as it is often necessary to work independently to prepare vehicles for the next route quickly. A positive attitude and willingness to learn new routines facilitate integration into the job and development within the profession. Showing respect for colleagues and passengers contributes to a pleasant work environment and good service. Finally, being open to feedback and eager to improve work methods is wise.
Key facts about bus cleaners
- Education level: Compulsory school, often internal training
- Work environment: Bus depots and terminals, often shift work
- Demand: Great opportunities for employment according to Arbetsförmedlingen
- Type of employment: Commonly full-time and part-time
- Special skills: Hygiene routines and safety
Career paths and future prospects
After a few years of experience as a bus cleaner, there are opportunities to advance to supervisory roles, such as foreman or team leader in cleaning services. Some choose to further specialize in cleaning or move into other segments within sanitation and waste management. According to Arbetsförmedlingen’s forecast, job opportunities in the profession are large, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Those wishing to broaden their skills can also seek employment in other cleaning-related professions, such as property services or transportation sector maintenance.
Frequently asked questions about bus cleaners
- What is the monthly salary of a bus cleaner?
- The average salary for a bus cleaner is 27 600 SEK/month.
- What is the highest salary for a bus cleaner?
- The highest salary is 29,700 SEK/month and belongs to a man who is a privately employed officer with a short post-secondary education.
- Do you need education to become a bus cleaner?
- No, formal education is rarely required, but an introductory training is often provided at the workplace.
- What does the job market look like for bus cleaners?
- Opportunities for employment are plentiful, and demand is expected to remain unchanged in the coming years.
- What are the working hours for a bus cleaner?
- Working hours vary and often include evening and night shifts.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn on average 96% of what men do in the profession.
- What personal qualities are important?
- Accuracy, responsibility, and flexibility are particularly valuable qualities.
