Landfill worker

What does a Deponiarbetare do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A deponiarbetare mainly works at waste facilities and landfills, where handling waste and recycling materials is central. Tasks include receiving, sorting, and processing various types of residual products, hazardous waste, and recyclable materials. The work also involves inspecting incoming transports, maintaining machinery and vehicles, and documenting according to current environmental and safety regulations. The work environment is often outdoors, sometimes under varying weather conditions, and can involve heavy lifting and handling machinery. Safety routines and protective equipment are essential to minimize risks at work.

Salary development over time

The salaries for deponiarbetare have shown steady increases in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,100 kronor per month, which increased to 32 100 kronor in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 32 700 kronor. This corresponds to a total increase of approximately 8.6% over the three-year period. The salary development has been influenced by the increased demand for labor in the recycling and waste management industry, as well as employers demanding more education and certifications for improved environmental and workplace safety. Salary increases have been slightly higher than inflation, indicating some upward wage pressure, especially as environmental and safety requirements have tightened.

Deponiarbetare salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 32 700 kr/month
• Lowest salary: 27,700 kr/month (women), 28,700 kr/month (men)
• Highest salary: 35,000 kr/month (women), 34,000 kr/month (men)
• Hourly wage: 196 kr
• Gender differences: Women earn 97% of men's salaries
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on the facility size and geographic location

Education and qualifications

To work as a deponiarbetare, no formal high school education is usually required, but many employers prefer applicants who have completed vocational programs such as vehicle and transport or construction and civil engineering. Practical experience is highly valued, and new employees often receive on-the-job training. Depending on the tasks, certifications for machine operation and hazardous waste handling may also be required.

• High school education: Vocational programs in vehicles, transport, or construction
• Certifications: Machine operator certificates, ADR certificates for hazardous goods
• Practical training: Workplace-based internships are common
• Pre-requisites: Driver's license B is often required
• Additional courses: Environmental and safety training is recommended

Common benefits and compensations

Deponiarbetare are often covered by collective agreements regulating base salary, overtime pay, and shift allowances. Other common benefits include wellness subsidies, work clothing, protective gear, and opportunities for skills development through courses and training. Some employers also offer subsidized lunches or attractive pension solutions.

Competition and challenges

The demand for deponiarbetare is generally high, but the profession is characterized by paradoxical recruitment difficulties. Despite many vacancies, turnover is high, partly because the work environment can be physically demanding and sometimes monotonous. Challenges include adhering to strict environmental and safety regulations and correctly handling heavy lifts and machinery. Competition for the most attractive positions can be tougher in metropolitan areas where salary levels are often higher. Individuals with specialized skills in hazardous waste or machinery operation have a clear advantage in the job market.

Tips for those wanting to become a Deponiarbetare

To succeed as a deponiarbetare, it is beneficial to have good physical fitness and endurance, as the work often involves heavy lifting and long outdoor shifts. Attention to detail is important, especially when following safety procedures and documenting waste handling. Flexibility is helpful, as tasks can vary daily and sometimes require quick adjustments. Those interested in environmental issues and recycling have an advantage, as sustainability engagement is increasingly valued. Being cooperative contributes to a better work environment, as tasks are often performed in teams. Finally, it is recommended to pursue further education in environmental and safety topics to enhance opportunities for advancement and higher pay within the profession.

Key facts about Deponiarbetare

• Education level: High school or equivalent, supplemented with practical training
• Work environment: Outdoors, often physically demanding
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment, 123 registered vacancies
• Special skills: Handling hazardous waste and machine operation certificates are advantageous
• Work form: Shift work and full-time employment are common

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years in the profession, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as supervisor, machine responsible, or environmental coordinator within the waste and recycling sector. Some pursue further education in environmental technology or logistics to move into more specialized roles. Forecasts from the Swedish Employment Agency indicate that demand for deponiarbetare and similar professions is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, but the job market is characterized by many vacancies and some staff turnover. Individuals with broad competence in environment and safety have particularly good prospects for development and stable employment.

Frequently asked questions about Deponiarbetare

• What does a Deponiarbetare earn?
  - A deponiarbetare has an average salary of 32 700 kronor per month.
• How has the salary development looked for deponiarbetare?
  - The salary has increased from 30,100 kr in 2022 to 32 700 kr in 2024.
• What education is required to become a deponiarbetare?
  - High school education within vocational programs is common, supplemented with practical training and possible certifications.
• Are there differences in salary between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn approximately 97% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What occupational health and safety risks are present in the job?
  - The work can be physically demanding and involves handling machinery as well as sometimes hazardous waste.
• What are the future prospects for deponiarbetare?
  - The forecast is that demand will remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What benefits can a deponiarbetare receive?
  - Common benefits include wellness subsidies, work clothing, protective gear, and collective agreement compensations.