Building cleaners

What does a construction cleaner do? – Tasks and work environment

A construction cleaner works to clean and prepare construction sites, both during and after construction projects. Tasks include heavy cleaning of construction dust and materials, as well as detailed final cleaning before occupancy or inspection. Disposal of waste and recycling of materials are often included. The work environment is physically demanding and can involve working in dusty, noisy, and sometimes confined spaces, where protective gear is a natural part of daily work. Flexibility and the ability to collaborate with other trades are important qualities in the profession.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for construction cleaners has shown steady growth. In 2022, the average salary was 25,600 SEK per month. This increased to 26 700 SEK in 2023, corresponding to a growth of approximately 4.3%. In 2024, the salary continued to rise to 27 600 SEK, a further increase of 3.4% from the previous year. This positive trend can be explained by continued high demand for cleaning services in the construction sector, increased complexity of projects, and a greater focus on work environment and safety. Although the salary increase is modest compared to some other professions, the construction cleaning profession has experienced stable development and remains competitive within the service industry.

Construction cleaner salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 27 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,600 SEK/month (male, municipal sector), 25,700 SEK/month (female)
• Highest salary: 29,700 SEK/month (male, private sector), 28,500 SEK/month (female)
• Hourly rate: 166 SEK/hour (based on 166 working hours/month)
• Gender differences: Men earn 28,500 SEK/month, women 27 300 SEK/month (women earn 96% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Currently no data available on regional variations

Education and qualifications

To work as a construction cleaner, formal education is usually not required, but many employers prefer applicants who have completed high school programs in construction or cleaning. Practical experience and knowledge of safety procedures are often advantageous. Short courses in cleaning technology and work environment are also available, and some workplaces offer internal training or introductory programs for new employees.

• High school education: Construction and civil engineering or equivalent
• Short courses: Cleaning technology, work environment, and safety
• Internship/training: Often offered as introduction or practical training at the workplace
• Prerequisites: Basic Swedish skills and good physical condition are often desirable
• Certifications: No formal requirements, but industry-specific certificates may exist

Common benefits and compensations

Construction cleaners are often covered by collective agreements that provide rights to overtime pay, holiday allowances, and sometimes wellness contributions. Other common benefits include work clothing, protective gear, and opportunities for further training. Some employers also offer bonuses or extra compensation for work on particularly demanding projects.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a construction cleaner is relatively low, as demand for the profession is stable and job opportunities are considered good nationwide. A challenge for many employers is finding staff willing to work full-time, as a significant proportion of employees work part-time. The work environment can be tough and requires good physical condition and precision, while temporary peaks in workload may occur. Staying updated on safety routines and environmental requirements is an important part of the role. For those who are flexible and willing to further their education, there are good opportunities for employment and development.

Tips for those who want to become construction cleaners

To succeed as a construction cleaner, it is good to be thorough and detail-oriented, as safety and the final result often depend on precision. Physical endurance facilitates the often heavy and monotonous tasks, especially during larger projects. Being flexible and able to adapt to varying work environments is a big advantage, as workplaces and tasks often change. Good teamwork skills are important since the work is carried out in close contact with other trades on the site. Finally, responsibility and punctuality are valued, as a construction cleaner often plays a crucial role in project progress and safety.

Key facts about construction cleaners

• Education level: High school or equivalent, often no formal degree required
• Work environment: Construction sites, often physically demanding and varied environments
• Work form: Full-time or part-time, usually daytime but sometimes shift work
• Demand: Large opportunities nationwide (123 job openings in May 2024)
• Special skills: Cleaning technology, safety routines, material handling

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a construction cleaner, those interested can advance to supervisory roles, such as team leader or coordinator on larger projects. Some choose to further their education within construction or property management and can eventually work as site managers or in work environment and safety roles. According to the Employment Service's forecast, opportunities for employment as a cleaner are generally good, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Those with experience and interest in specialized cleaning techniques or environmental work also have the chance to niche into more advanced assignments within decontamination and sanitation.

Frequently asked questions about construction cleaners

• What does a construction cleaner earn?
  - The average salary for a construction cleaner is 27 600 SEK per month, but the salary varies depending on experience, employer, and gender.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries in the profession?
  - Yes, men earn on average 28,500 SEK while women earn 27 300 SEK per month, which means women earn 96% of men's salaries.
• Is education required to become a construction cleaner?
  - Formal education is usually not required, but high school programs and courses in cleaning technology and safety are advantageous.
• What is the work environment like for construction cleaners?
  - The work environment is physically demanding and involves working in dusty, noisy, and sometimes confined spaces, often with protective gear.
• What career paths are available for construction cleaners?
  - After a few years, one can take on supervisory roles, specialize in decontamination, or further education for new tasks within the construction sector.
• What are the future prospects?
  - Job opportunities are plentiful, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years according to the Employment Service.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Common benefits include overtime pay, holiday allowance, wellness contributions, work clothing, and protective gear.