Finance assistant, ship

What does an assistant steward on a ship do? – Tasks and work environment

An assistant steward on a ship is responsible for assisting chefs and kitchen staff with meal preparations and serving onboard. Tasks include handling raw materials, washing dishes, cleaning kitchen areas, helping with serving and setting tables in the dining room. Inventory of supplies, waste management, and ensuring hygiene and safety routines are followed according to maritime regulations are also included. The work environment is characterized by limited space, a fast pace, and the need for teamwork with the crew. Since work is onboard ships, periods of work can be intense with longer shifts and work around the clock.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salary development for assistant stewards on ships has been positive. In 2022, the average salary was 25,200 SEK, increasing to 26 600 SEK in 2023 and further to 27 900 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of about 11% over three years, slightly above the general wage growth for similar service professions. The salary increase can be partly explained by increased demand for staff in the restaurant and kitchen sectors at sea, as well as a greater focus on working conditions and compensation for work during inconvenient hours and in special environments. The constant demand for the profession contributes to stable salary development.

Assistant steward on a ship salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 27 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 24,800 SEK/month (female, private sector employee)
• Highest salary: 33,700 SEK/month (male, public sector)
• Hourly wage (average): 168 SEK/hour
• Men's average salary: 28 300 SEK/month
• Women's average salary: 27 600 SEK/month
• Women earn: 98% of men's salary

Education and qualifications

To work as an assistant steward on a ship, usually no formal education beyond primary school is required, but many employers prefer candidates with experience from restaurants, large kitchens, or similar environments. Some shipping companies may also require completed safety courses for onboard work. Practical experience, service-mindedness, and the ability to work in a team are especially valuable qualities since the work environment is often social and demanding.

• Educational requirements: Primary school, sometimes high school with a focus on hospitality/food services
• Certifications: Basic Safety training for maritime work
• Experience: Prior work in restaurants, kitchens, or large-scale food preparation is advantageous
• Internship/Trainee: Possible through certain shipping companies or training providers
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition, teamwork skills, and stress tolerance

Common benefits and compensations

Assistant stewards on ships often have access to meals and accommodation onboard, meaning housing and food are included during work periods at sea. Other common benefits include overtime pay for evening, night, and weekend work, as well as the possibility of longer leave periods between assignments. Some employers also offer wellness allowances, work clothing, and insurance.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as an assistant steward on ships is generally moderate, as the work environment and conditions require special adaptation. Applicants should be prepared for physically demanding work and long working days, often with few days off. A particular challenge is that many jobs are seasonal or offered as temporary contracts, which can bring some uncertainty between seasons and assignments. At the same time, there are reports of recruitment difficulties within the profession, especially at sea, providing good opportunities for those who are flexible and willing to work inconvenient hours.

Tips for those wanting to become an assistant steward on a ship

To succeed as an assistant steward on a ship, it is good to develop both practical skills and personal qualities suited to the profession. Flexibility is crucial, as tasks vary and the work environment can change quickly; being willing to take on various duties and adapt under pressure offers great advantages. Teamwork skills are key, as the work almost always occurs in teams and requires good communication with colleagues from different backgrounds. Being service-oriented and having a positive attitude towards both crew and guests makes everyday life easier and contributes to onboard well-being. Good physical condition and endurance facilitate long workdays and sometimes heavy lifting. Showing responsibility and thoroughness in hygiene and safety matters is also important, especially since the work environment can have serious consequences if small mistakes occur. Finally, curiosity and willingness to learn more about maritime work and cooking are highly beneficial for career development.

Key facts about assistant steward on a ship

• Education level: Primary or high school education, supplemented with safety courses
• Work environment: Onboard ships, often in shifts and at sea for periods
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment according to the Swedish Public Employment Service
• Type of employment: Often temporary or seasonal work
• Job openings: 123 within the profession in Sweden

Career paths and future prospects

After gaining some experience as an assistant steward on ships, there are opportunities to advance to more qualified roles within onboard kitchens or restaurants, such as cook, head chef, or steward. With additional training in food handling or leadership, administrative or supervisory positions can also become available. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, demand for restaurant and kitchen assistants, including assistant stewards at sea, is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, but job opportunities remain plentiful thanks to recruitment difficulties and high staff turnover. The profession suits both those seeking a long-term maritime career and those wanting to combine work with travel for shorter periods.

Frequently asked questions about assistant steward on ships

• What does an assistant steward on a ship earn?
  - The average salary is 27 900 SEK/month, with an hourly wage of 168 SEK.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn on average 28 300 SEK and women 27 600 SEK, which means women earn 98% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become an assistant steward on a ship?
  - Primary school is often sufficient, but high school education and safety courses are advantageous.
• What is the work environment like onboard?
  - The work environment is often intense, social, and physically demanding, with shift work during periods at sea.
• What benefits are provided as an assistant steward on a ship?
  - Meals and accommodation onboard, overtime pay, insurance, and sometimes wellness allowances are common.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Opportunities for work are plentiful, and demand is expected to remain unchanged in the coming years.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for the profession?
  - The highest salary is 33,700 SEK/month, and the lowest is 24,800 SEK/month.