What does a catering assistant in cleaning do? – Tasks and work environment
A catering assistant in cleaning assists with kitchen and serving tasks and maintains a clean, safe, and pleasant environment in food services, schools, conference facilities, and other public settings. Common tasks include food preparation and presentation, dishwashing, waste management, and meticulous cleaning of kitchen surfaces and dining areas. The profession requires good hygiene practices and the ability to work efficiently under time pressure, often in teams with chefs and other service staff. The work environment is characterized by varying pace, physical activity, and contact with colleagues and guests.
Wage development over time
Over the past three years, wages for catering assistants in cleaning have shown steady increases. In 2022, the average salary was 25,600 SEK per month, rising to 26 700 SEK in 2023 and reaching 27 600 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to a total increase of about 7.8% over the period, or roughly 500 SEK per year on average. The salary increase can be linked to continued demand for the profession, increased quality standards, and overall wage growth within the hotel and restaurant industry. Gender differences remain, with women earning slightly less on average than men, but the gap has been relatively stable. The trend indicates that the profession continues to be highly valued, especially as awareness of the importance of cleanliness and good service grows.
Catering assistant, cleaning staff 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 employee), 28,500 SEK/month (female)
- Hourly wage: 166 SEK
- Gender differences: Men 28,500 SEK, Women 27 300 SEK (96% of men's salary)
- Regional differences: No specific data available
Education and qualifications
To work as a catering assistant in cleaning, usually no formal education beyond high school is required, but a hotel, restaurant, or service-oriented program is advantageous. Many employers offer introductory training on-site, and new employees often receive guidance from experienced colleagues. Some experience in cleaning, kitchen work, or service can be beneficial, but attitude and willingness to learn are often decisive.
- High school education: Hotel and restaurant program, 3 years
- On-the-job training: Introduction and supervision at the workplace
- Internship: Often part of education or provided upon hiring
- Prerequisites: Basic Swedish language skills and service experience
- Courses/certifications: Food hygiene, cleaning techniques, and work environment
Many catering assistants in cleaning often have opportunities to work at various events, providing a varied workday and chances to develop social skills. Flexibility and the ability to adapt to new environments are highly valued by employers. The profession can be particularly suitable for those who enjoy variety and meeting new people.
Common benefits and compensations
Employees working as catering assistants in cleaning are often offered meal allowances, work clothing, wellness contributions, and opportunities to participate in internal training. The work may also provide access to collective agreements with holiday pay, pension contributions, and overtime pay for work during inconvenient hours.
Competition and challenges
The competition for jobs as a catering assistant in cleaning is generally low, as demand is high and many positions are available. A challenge is that many employment opportunities are part-time, which can make it harder to reach a full-time salary. The tasks are often physically demanding, and the pace can be high during busy times, requiring endurance and stress tolerance. Additionally, the profession involves significant contact with food and hygiene, demanding accuracy and responsibility. The ability to collaborate and communicate clearly is essential for success in the role.
Tips for those who want to become a catering assistant in cleaning
To succeed as a catering assistant in cleaning, it is important to be meticulous and organized, as hygiene and quality must always be prioritized. Flexibility is a key trait, as tasks and workplaces can vary from day to day. Being service-minded and able to greet guests in a friendly manner is appreciated by both employers and colleagues. It is also valuable to be stress-resistant, especially during busy periods with many orders. Quickly learning new routines and collaborating with different people facilitates daily work. Those who show engagement and a desire to develop can often take on additional responsibilities or new tasks. Finally, punctuality and reliability are highly valued by employers, as they rely on staff they can trust in all situations.
Key facts about Catering Assistant, cleaning staff
- Education level: High school education recommended, but not required
- Work environment: Physical, varied environment with high pace
- Typical employment form: Part-time, but full-time jobs are available
- Demand: High, 123 available jobs nationwide
- Special skills: Food hygiene and cleaning techniques
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a catering assistant in cleaning, there are opportunities to advance to supervisory roles such as team leader or workplace manager. With further training, roles within kitchen operations, such as assistant cook or responsible for special diets, can also become relevant. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, job opportunities remain plentiful, and demand is expected to stay unchanged over the next five years. However, the industry is characterized by many part-time workers, which can lead to competition for full-time positions. Those eager to develop within the field have good chances of finding new challenges, especially within larger organizations or with private employers.
Frequently asked questions about Catering Assistant, cleaning staff
- What does a Catering Assistant, cleaning staff, earn?
- The average salary is 27 600 SEK per month, ranging between 25,600 SEK and 29,700 SEK depending on experience and employment type.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, men earn on average 28,500 SEK and women 27 300 SEK, which means women earn approximately 96% of men's salaries.
- What education is required to become a catering assistant in cleaning?
- High school education with a focus on hotel, restaurant, or service is advantageous but not mandatory; an introduction is often provided at the workplace.
- What does the job market look like for catering assistants in cleaning?
- Demand is high and job opportunities are good, with 123 available jobs nationwide according to the latest statistics.
- What tasks are included in the profession?
- The role involves food preparation, serving, dishwashing, and thorough cleaning of kitchens and dining areas.
- What benefits are common in the profession?
- Common benefits include meal allowances, work clothing, wellness contributions, and overtime pay for work during inconvenient hours.
- Is there opportunity for advancement within the profession?
- Yes, with experience, one can progress to supervisory roles or further training in kitchen management or specialized services.
