Operations manager, property manager

What does a property maintenance manager do? – Tasks and work environment

A property maintenance manager has overall responsibility for the daily operation and maintenance of properties. Tasks include leading and distributing work among property caretakers, ensuring properties are in good condition, following up on service agreements, and managing budgets and procurement. The role also involves contact with tenants, contractors, and suppliers to quickly resolve issues or report faults. The work is often conducted both at the office and on-site at properties, requiring flexibility and the ability to handle both administrative and practical matters.

Salary development over time

The salary for a property maintenance manager has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,300 SEK per month, increasing to 31 000 SEK in 2023 and reaching the current level of 32 400 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to a total salary increase of approximately 7% over three years. The increase is mainly linked to higher demand for qualified managers with broad technical knowledge and adjustments for inflation and industry-wide updates. Although the demand is considered unchanged nationally, skills requirements have increased, possibly contributing to the salary rise.

Property maintenance manager salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 32 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 22,600 SEK/month (female, private employee, education data unavailable)
• Highest salary: 38,800 SEK/month (male, private employee, postgraduate education)
• Hourly wage (average): 195 SEK/hour
• Women earn: 98% of men's salaries (31 900 SEK/month vs. 32 500 SEK/month)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region, employer, and property portfolio size.

Education and qualifications

To work as a property maintenance manager, a high school education with a focus on property, technical, or construction is usually required, complemented by work experience in the property industry. Many employers prefer candidates with further training, certification courses, or leadership experience. Practical experience is highly valued, especially when combined with technical skills and the ability to handle administrative tasks.

• High school education: Property, technical, or construction, 3 years
• Further education: YH training in property management or technical leadership
• Certifications: For example, in occupational health and safety, energy, or ventilation
• Practical experience: Working as a property caretaker or technician
• Leadership experience: Meritorious for managerial roles

Common benefits and compensations

Property maintenance managers are often offered company cars or car allowances, wellness contributions, mobile phones, and laptops. Other benefits may include professional development, bonus schemes, and sometimes additional vacation days. Flexible working hours are also common, especially in larger organizations.

Competition and challenges

The job market for property maintenance managers is characterized by limited opportunities for new positions nationwide, according to the Swedish Public Employment Service. There is a slight oversupply of labor within the profession, making competition for managerial roles tough. At the same time, high demands are placed on technical competence and leadership, with employers often seeking candidates with broad experience and strong problem-solving skills. Challenges include increasing requirements for energy efficiency, digitization of property systems, and handling urgent operational disruptions. To stand out, both formal qualifications and practical experience are essential.

Tips for aspiring property maintenance managers

To succeed as a property maintenance manager, it is beneficial to combine technical understanding with leadership skills. Precision is important, as it involves monitoring maintenance plans and budgets. Flexibility is helpful when unexpected problems arise and quick decisions are needed, while good communication skills are crucial in interactions with staff and tenants. A strong drive to develop and stay updated on new technical solutions provides an advantage in recruitment. Building a broad network and gaining experience from different types of properties increases the chance of advancing to more qualified managerial positions. Finally, a solution-oriented attitude and the ability to lead teams toward common goals are valued.

Key facts about property maintenance managers

• Education level: High school or YH, often supplemented with certifications
• Work environment: Combination of office work and outdoor environment
• Work form: Full-time, often daytime, sometimes on-call
• Demand: Limited opportunities, oversupply of labor nationally
• Available jobs: 481 positions within the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After several years of experience, property maintenance managers can advance to larger responsibilities, such as property manager or technical director. There are also opportunities to specialize in areas like energy optimization, sustainability work, or digitization of property operations. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, demand for the profession is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, but competition for managerial roles will stay high. The number of available positions is 481, providing some mobility but requiring high formal qualifications and practical experience. Future prospects improve for those willing to further their education in technical and environmental fields.

Frequently asked questions about property maintenance managers

• What does a property maintenance manager earn?
  - The average salary is 32 400 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, education, and region.
• How has the salary development for property maintenance managers progressed?
  - Salaries have increased from 30,300 SEK (2022) to 32 400 SEK (2024), representing approximately a 7% increase over three years.
• What education is required to become a property maintenance manager?
  - Usually, high school education with a focus on property/technical or construction, along with work experience and certifications.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 98% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What is the job market outlook for property maintenance managers?
  - The job market is characterized by limited opportunities and a slight oversupply of labor nationally, but there are 481 available positions.
• What benefits are common in this profession?
  - Company cars, wellness contributions, training, bonuses, and flexible hours are common benefits.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries in the profession?
  - The highest salary is 38,800 SEK (male, postgraduate education), the lowest is 22,600 SEK (female, data unavailable).