- Salary statistics
- Byggnadsarbetare
Byggnadsarbetare
35 200 - 38 900 kr / month
Women earn 96% of what men do.
Bygg & anläggning
Salary progression Byggnadsarbetare
What does a construction worker do? – Tasks and work environment
Construction workers perform a range of practical tasks at building and construction sites. The tasks vary depending on the project's nature and scope but often include foundation work, concrete work, bricklaying, assembly of building components, as well as demolition and maintenance of structures. The work is primarily outdoors and can involve exposure to weather and noise. Safety routines and the use of protective equipment are an integral part of the work environment to prevent accidents and injuries. Collaboration within work teams, sometimes with different trades, is central to daily work.
Salary development over time
The salary for construction workers has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 32,900 SEK, rising to 35 500 SEK in 2023, and further to 36 400 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 10.6% over the period, with a particularly clear rise between 2022 and 2023. This development can be partly explained by high demand for labor in the construction sector, increased requirements for professional skills, and collective bargaining wage adjustments. Inflation and a growing need for new construction and renovation have also positively influenced salary development. Differences between regions and employers may occur, with some areas offering higher wages depending on project complexity and the availability of qualified personnel.
Construction worker salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 36 400 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 35,200 SEK/month (woman), 35,300 SEK/month (man)
- Highest salary: 38,900 SEK/month (man), 35,700 SEK/month (woman)
- Hourly wage: 219 SEK
- Gender differences: Women earn 96% of what men do
- Regional differences: Highest wages are found within the regional sector
Education and qualifications
The path to becoming a construction worker generally goes through the vocational construction and civil engineering program in high school, but there are also opportunities through adult education or vocational training at adult education centers. Practical experience and supervised internships are often crucial for employment and career development within the profession. Certifications and specialized training, for example for machinery or scaffolding, may be required depending on tasks and employers.
- High school education: Construction and civil engineering program, 3 years
- Adult education/vocational training: Construction-specific courses
- Internship: Usually 15 weeks during education
- Certifications: For example, scaffolding, hot work, machinery operator licenses
- Prerequisites: Good physical condition and teamwork skills are advantageous
Many construction workers choose to specialize in a particular area, such as concrete, bricklaying, or scaffolding, which can open doors to more advanced roles and project responsibilities. Specialization also allows working on larger and more complex projects, both nationally and internationally.
Common benefits and compensations
Construction workers are often covered by collective agreements that entitle them to overtime pay, holiday pay, occupational pension, and insurance in case of work-related injuries. Employers may also offer wellness allowances, work clothing, tools, and sometimes training or certifications as part of employment conditions.
Competition and challenges
Competition for jobs varies depending on economic conditions and region. In expanding areas and periods of high construction activity, there is often a shortage of skilled workers, whereas a weaker market can lead to fewer available positions. Challenges in the profession include physical strain, safety risks, and sometimes irregular working hours. Technological changes and new materials also require ongoing skills development. For those who are flexible and willing to work at different locations, employment opportunities increase significantly.
Tips for those wanting to become a construction worker
To succeed as a construction worker, good teamwork skills are important, as work often takes place in teams where communication and cooperation are crucial for safety and results. Being thorough and responsible is vital, especially regarding safety routines and working with heavy machinery or materials. Physical endurance and strength facilitate often demanding tasks, and a positive attitude towards outdoor work in various weather conditions is an advantage. For those seeking further development, taking initiatives for additional training and actively seeking internships to gain experience is recommended. Showing flexibility and willingness to take on new tasks also increases chances of employment and career growth within the industry.
Key facts about construction workers
- Education level: Most commonly high school vocational training
- Work environment: Outdoor work requiring safety and protective equipment
- Employment types: Permanent and hourly employment available
- Demand: 379 job openings according to latest statistics
- Gender distribution: Majority men, but the proportion of women is increasing
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession, construction workers can take on greater responsibilities, such as site supervisor or team leader. Specialization in areas like concrete, bricklaying, or machinery operation can lead to more niche roles and higher salaries. According to the Employment Service, the outlook is good, with continued high demand for skilled workers in both new construction and renovation. Digitalization and new building methods may, however, change skill requirements over time. Opportunities for further education and certification also provide pathways into project management or entrepreneurship.
Frequently asked questions about construction workers
- What does a construction worker earn?
- The average salary is 36 400 SEK per month, but it varies depending on experience, region, and employer. - How does one become a construction worker?
- The most common route is through the high school vocational construction and civil engineering program, or via adult education or apprenticeship employment. - Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn on average 96% of what men do within the profession. - What occupational health and safety risks are there?
- Risks include heavy lifting, working at heights, noise, and weather exposure, which is why protective equipment is mandatory. - What is the state of the job market?
- Currently, there are 379 vacancies, and demand for construction workers remains high according to the Employment Service. - What are the highest and lowest salaries?
- The highest salary is 38,900 SEK (men), 35,700 SEK (women). The lowest salary is 35,200 SEK (women), 35,300 SEK (men). - Are certifications required?
- For certain tasks, such as scaffolding and hot work, specific certificates or training are required.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 31900 kr | 32300 kr | |
| 25-34 | 100% | 37000 kr | 37900 kr |
| 35-44 | 36200 kr | 37000 kr | |
| 45-54 | 38000 kr | 38600 kr | |
| 55-64 | 36900 kr | 37600 kr | |
| Snitt | 96% | 35800 kr | 36400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 34000 kr | 34600 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 34000 kr | 34600 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 31900 kr | 32300 kr | |
| 25-34 | 100% | 37000 kr | 37900 kr |
| 35-44 | 36300 kr | 37000 kr | |
| 45-54 | 38000 kr | 38600 kr | |
| 55-64 | 36900 kr | 37600 kr | |
| Snitt | 96% | 35800 kr | 36400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 31900 kr | 32300 kr | |
| 25-34 | 100% | 37000 kr | 37900 kr |
| 35-44 | 36300 kr | 37000 kr | |
| 45-54 | 38000 kr | 38600 kr | |
| 55-64 | 36900 kr | 37600 kr | |
| Snitt | 96% | 35800 kr | 36400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 31900 kr | 32300 kr | |
| 25-34 | 100% | 36900 kr | 37900 kr |
| 35-44 | 36300 kr | 37000 kr | |
| 45-54 | 38100 kr | 38600 kr | |
| 55-64 | 37000 kr | 37800 kr | |
| Snitt | 96% | 35800 kr | 36500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 31900 kr | 32300 kr | |
| 25-34 | 100% | 36900 kr | 37900 kr |
| 35-44 | 36300 kr | 37000 kr | |
| 45-54 | 38100 kr | 38600 kr | |
| 55-64 | 37000 kr | 37800 kr | |
| Snitt | 96% | 35800 kr | 36500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 31900 kr | 32300 kr | |
| 25-34 | 100% | 36900 kr | 37900 kr |
| 35-44 | 36300 kr | 37000 kr | |
| 45-54 | 38100 kr | 38600 kr | |
| 55-64 | 37000 kr | 37800 kr | |
| Snitt | 96% | 35800 kr | 36500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 100% | 37700 kr | 38100 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 34800 kr | 35200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 100% | 37700 kr | 38100 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 34800 kr | 35200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 100% | 37700 kr | 38100 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 34800 kr | 35200 kr |
About the data
All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.
All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.
Profession Byggnadsarbetare has the SSYK code 7119, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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