Ship cleaners

What does a ship cleaner do? – Tasks and work environment

A ship cleaner is responsible for cleaning and maintaining areas onboard ships, which includes everything from passenger areas and cabins to common spaces, corridors, and sometimes technical rooms. Tasks involve vacuuming, mopping, wiping surfaces, emptying trash, and occasionally handling simple laundry. The work is often performed in shifts, especially on ferries and cruise ships where staffing operates around the clock. The work environment is characterized by movement, sometimes tight spaces, and the need to follow strict hygiene routines and safety regulations at sea.

Salary development over time

The salary for ship cleaners has shown steady increases in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 25,600 SEK per month, rising to 26 700 SEK in 2023 and further to 27 600 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of approximately 7.8% over three years. The positive trend is partly explained by increased demand for labor in the cleaning industry, especially within the transport sector where shipping traffic has recovered after the pandemic. At the same time, inflation pressures and collective bargaining have contributed to rising wages in the profession. Despite the increase, the salary level remains relatively modest within the cleaning sector.

Ship cleaner salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 27 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,600 SEK/month (men), 25,700 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 29,700 SEK/month (men), 28,500 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 166 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 96% of what men do
• Regional differences: No clear regional variations available

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a ship cleaner generally does not require extensive formal education, but some employers may prefer high school education and experience in similar work. Onboard introduction and practical training are common, and for certain ships, safety training or certifications might be required. Personal qualities such as attention to detail, responsibility, and service orientation are often valued highly during recruitment.

• Education: High school education recommended but not always required
• Certifications: Basic maritime safety training may be required
• Practical training: Introduction and on-the-job training are common
• Prerequisites: No formal experience required, but cleaning experience is advantageous
• Tips: Courses in hygiene and sanitation increase employability

Common benefits and compensations

Ship cleaners are often covered by collective agreements that entitle them to overtime pay for irregular hours, per diems for longer sea voyages, and wellness allowances. Many employers also provide staff meals and sometimes onboard accommodation during shifts, especially on longer routes. Other benefits may include employee discounts and access to recreational facilities on the ships.

Competition and challenges

The job market for ship cleaners offers good employment opportunities but also high competition for the most attractive positions and workplaces. There is a paradoxical situation where many work part-time despite recruitment difficulties, according to the Swedish Public Employment Service forecasts. Challenges in the profession often involve physically demanding tasks, irregular hours, and periods of high workload, especially during peak passenger season. Flexibility and adaptability are highly valued, and the maritime work environment demands strict safety and teamwork with colleagues from diverse backgrounds.

Tips for those wanting to become a ship cleaner

To succeed as a ship cleaner, it helps to have a strong service orientation and be flexible in your working methods, as tasks and environments can vary. Attention to detail is crucial – consistently delivering quality results even under time pressure makes a big difference onboard. Good physical endurance is beneficial, as cleaning can be strenuous and performed during long shifts. The ability to cooperate and communicate with people from different cultures is valuable, especially on larger ships with an international crew. Demonstrating responsibility and following safety routines are essential for your own safety and that of others. For those curious and eager to develop, taking additional courses in hygiene or maritime safety can be advantageous. Showing initiative and engagement often opens doors to more opportunities within the maritime sector.

Key facts about ship cleaners

• Education level: High school education recommended but not required
• Work environment: Onboard ships, often in shifts and international settings
• Demand: Large job opportunities according to the Swedish Public Employment Service
• Employment type: Usually full-time or part-time, sometimes seasonal work
• Average salary: 27 600 SEK/month

Career paths and future outlook

After gaining some experience as a ship cleaner, there are opportunities to advance to supervisory roles such as team leader or coordinator of cleaning crews onboard. Further education in maritime safety, hygiene, or work management can open doors to other roles within the maritime industry, such as logistics or passenger service. The Swedish Public Employment Service forecasts that demand for cleaners, including ship cleaners, is expected to remain stable over the next five years, but employment opportunities are still considered significant nationwide. Those with language skills and experience in international environments can also seek employment with larger shipping companies or cruise lines with foreign crews. There are also opportunities to expand into related fields such as sanitation and cleaning services.

Common questions about ship cleaners

• What does a ship cleaner earn?
  - A ship cleaner has an average salary of 27 600 SEK per month, with variation between 25,600 SEK and 29,700 SEK depending on experience, gender, and employment type.
• Is education required to become a ship cleaner?
  - Formal education is not always necessary, but high school education and onboard introductory training are recommended.
• What are the working hours for a ship cleaner?
  - Working hours are often shift-based and may include evenings, nights, and weekends, especially on passenger ships.
• Are there differences in salary between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 96% of what men do in the profession.
• What are the future prospects for ship cleaners?
  - Job opportunities are plentiful, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Attention to detail, service-mindedness, flexibility, and good physical endurance are especially valued qualities.