Bicycle guard

What does a bicycle guard do? – Tasks and work environment

A bicycle guard is responsible for monitoring and protecting bicycles and bike parking areas at large events, public places, or in particularly vulnerable areas. The work often involves patrolling, visual surveillance, and direct contact with the public and organizers. Tasks may also include reporting suspicious activities, preventing thefts, and sometimes handling minor conflicts. The work environment is mainly outdoors, which means weather and season can influence the workday. During major events, shifts can be intensive and require flexibility and good endurance.

Salary development over time

The salary for bicycle guards has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,900 SEK per month, increasing the following year to 32 800 SEK, representing an increase of about 2.8%. In 2024, the average salary has continued to rise to 34 300 SEK, a further increase of just over 4.5% compared to the previous year. This positive trend reflects increased demand for security services, especially at events and in public environments, as well as a greater focus on safety in urban areas. Salaries are also influenced by collective agreements within the security sector and a certain shortage of personnel, which has contributed to a somewhat faster salary development compared to several other service professions.

Bicycle guard salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 34 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 33,200 SEK/month (female, regional sector, 3-year upper secondary education)
• Highest salary: 37,600 SEK/month (female, public sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary for men: 36,100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary for men: 34,200 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 206 SEK
• Women earn: 33 500 SEK (97% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 34 600 SEK

Education and qualifications

To work as a bicycle guard, generally no higher formal education is required, but basic upper secondary education and an introductory training in security and surveillance are often prerequisites. Many employers prefer candidates who have completed internal courses or have experience from similar service or security professions. Practical experience and good social skills are highly valued, especially when working in public spaces where contact with people is frequent.

• Education: Upper secondary education (at least 3 years), preferably with a focus on security or social sciences
• Certifications: Internal training in security, often arranged by the employer
• Internship: Internship or introductory period at the workplace is common
• Prerequisites: Approved background check and criminal record
• Tips: Experience from customer service or previous security work is advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Bicycle guards are often covered by collective agreements within the security industry, which include compensation for unsociable hours, holiday pay, and in some cases, wellness allowances. Many employers also provide work clothes, protective equipment, and opportunities for further training in security and conflict management. Benefits may vary depending on employment type and sector.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a bicycle guard is moderate, but the industry faces some staff turnover and difficulties in finding the right competence. Challenges in the profession include working outdoors in varying weather conditions, managing stressful situations during events, and sometimes facing resistance from the public. Flexibility is also required as tasks can vary greatly depending on the workplace and season. An additional challenge is the ability to act quickly during incidents while maintaining a professional attitude.

Tips for those who want to become a bicycle guard

To succeed as a bicycle guard, it is good to be attentive and have a strong ability to read your surroundings, as preventive work often relies on quickly detecting deviations. Communication skills are important, as the job involves direct contact with the public and organizers – a friendly and clear approach can prevent many problems. Flexibility and stress tolerance are helpful during intensive shifts and unexpected situations, especially during large events. Being solution-oriented is also an advantage, as quick decisions sometimes need to be made independently. Finally, reliability and responsibility are highly valued, as employers need to trust that tasks are performed correctly and carefully even under pressure.

Key facts about Bicycle Guard

• Education level: Upper secondary education (at least 3 years)
• Work environment: Outdoors, often at events or public places
• Work form: Shift work, both day and evening shifts
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment according to the Employment Service
• Special skills: Conflict management and service orientation

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a bicycle guard, there are good opportunities to advance to other roles within the security industry, such as security guard, security officer, or supervisor at larger security assignments. Some also choose to further their education in security management or occupational health and safety. According to the Employment Service's forecasts, job opportunities within the "security guards and security officers" group remain large nationwide and are expected to be stable over the next five years. However, the recruitment situation is characterized by a paradox, with high staff turnover and periods of a shortage of applicants with the right background. This means that the demand for committed and trained bicycle guards is likely to continue in the future.

Frequently asked questions about Bicycle Guard

• What does a Bicycle Guard earn?
  - The average salary is 34 300 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, sector, and gender.
• Is special training required to become a bicycle guard?
  - Basic upper secondary education and introductory training in security are usually required.
• What are the working hours for a bicycle guard?
  - Shift work is common, with both day and evening shifts, especially during larger events.
• What are the future prospects for bicycle guards?
  - Demand is high and expected to remain unchanged over the next five years according to the Employment Service.
• What personal qualities are important for the profession?
  - Attention to detail, stress tolerance, responsibility, and good communication skills are central.
• Are there opportunities for further development?
  - Yes, many progress to roles such as security guard, security officer, or supervisor within security services.
• What is the gender distribution and salary difference?
  - Men earn on average 34 600 SEK, women 33 500 SEK, which means women earn approximately 97% of men's salary.