Donkeyman

What does a Donkeyman do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Donkeyman works onboard ships and is responsible for operating, maintaining, and repairing the auxiliary machinery of the vessel, such as pumps, compressors, and generators. Tasks include both preventive and corrective maintenance, meaning troubleshooting and urgent repairs are an important part of daily work. Donkeyman collaborates closely with engine officers and other technical staff, often in shifts, and follows strict safety routines. The work environment is technically advanced and can be physically demanding, with work in noisy and sometimes confined spaces. The profession requires good technical understanding, precision, and the ability to quickly solve problems under pressure.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, Donkeyman salaries have shown a stable and positive trend. In 2022, the average salary was 36,500 SEK per month, increasing to 37 900 SEK in 2023 and further to 39 400 SEK in 2024. The total increase corresponds to approximately 8 percent over the three-year period. The salary increase can largely be explained by the continued demand for technically skilled maintenance personnel in shipping, as well as salary adjustments to meet competition from similar technical professions on land. Inflation and collective bargaining negotiations have also influenced salary development. Differences between employers and education levels are noticeable, with higher education and private employment often resulting in higher salaries.

Donkeyman salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 39 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,600 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 41,000 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 237 SEK
• Women earn: 38 500 SEK/month (98% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 39 500 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on employer and type of vessel, but clear regional differences are uncommon.

Education and qualifications

To work as a Donkeyman, a high school education in navigation or engineering is usually required, possibly supplemented by vocational training or equivalent experience in mechanical work. Practical experience with machinery, maintenance, or repairs is highly meritorious. Some shipping companies may also require certifications or specific safety courses, such as Basic Safety or Engine Officer Class VIII. Technical interest, teamwork skills, and good physical condition are important prerequisites for succeeding in the role.

• High school education: Navigation program or technical program, 3 years
• Vocational college: Mechanical engineering, 1–2 years (meritorious)
• Certifications: Basic Safety, Engine Officer Class VIII (depending on vessel)
• Practical training: On-the-job training during education, often required
• Experience: Previous work with machinery or ship machinery provides an advantage

Common benefits and compensations

Donkeymen are often covered by collective agreements that entitle them to overtime pay, additional pay for extra hours, and holiday pay. Many employers also offer wellness allowances, pension contributions, and sometimes free food and accommodation onboard. Working at sea can also provide favorable travel and leave agreements, as well as specialized insurances tailored for seafarers.

Competitions and challenges

The competition for jobs as a Donkeyman is assessed as moderate, according to the National Employment Service’s forecast for maintenance mechanics and machine repairers. The availability of job opportunities is relatively stable, with around 481 job openings in the profession. Technological development and increased automation may change job tasks, but the need for qualified personnel for maintenance and troubleshooting remains. Challenges in the profession often involve staying updated on new technology and safety procedures, as well as managing physically and mentally demanding work.

Tips for aspiring Donkeymen

To succeed as a Donkeyman, it’s good to combine technical interest with a willingness to work practically and solve problems. A careful and responsible attitude facilitates troubleshooting and repairs in the engine room, where small mistakes can quickly become costly. Being cooperative and communicative is important, as the work is done close to colleagues and engine officers during shifts. Flexibility and stress tolerance help when unexpected breakdowns need to be handled quickly and efficiently. Actively seeking internships and being open to further education also provide an advantage, especially on ships with advanced technology. Finally, good physical fitness is an advantage, as the work environment is often physically and mentally demanding.

Key facts about Donkeyman

• Education level: High school diploma in navigation or engineering, sometimes post-secondary education
• Work environment: Onboard ships, often in shifts
• Demand: Moderate, stable labor market
• Special skills: Mechanical engineering, safety routines, troubleshooting
• Common employment: Employment with shipping companies or staffing agencies in maritime sector

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience as a Donkeyman, opportunities exist to advance to higher engine officer roles, such as motorman or engineer, especially if additional training and certifications are obtained. Some also choose to further their education to become technical managers or marine engineers onboard. The Employment Service’s forecast for maintenance mechanics and machine repairers indicates that the job market is balanced and expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Technological progress and automation may change the work content, but the need for qualified maintenance personnel remains. The profession can also provide valuable experience for land-based technical services, such as industry, energy, or property management.

Frequently asked questions about Donkeyman

• What does a Donkeyman earn?
  - A Donkeyman has an average salary of 39 400 SEK per month. The lowest salary is 25,600 SEK and the highest is 41,000 SEK.
• What education is required to become a Donkeyman?
  - Usually, high school education in navigation or engineering, along with practical training and sometimes certifications like Engine Officer Class VIII.
• Are there gender differences in salary for Donkeyman?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 38 500 SEK per month, which corresponds to 98% of men’s salaries.
• What is the job market like for Donkeyman?
  - Demand is moderate and stable, with around 481 job openings according to the Employment Service.
• What are the common benefits for Donkeyman?
  - Benefits include overtime pay, additional pay for extra hours, holiday pay, wellness allowances, and sometimes free food and accommodation onboard.
• What career paths are available after a few years as a Donkeyman?
  - Opportunities to advance to motorman, engineer, technical manager, or further into land-based technical roles.
• What does the work environment for a Donkeyman entail?
  - The work environment is onboard ships, often noisy and technically advanced, with shift work and high safety standards.