What does a property maintenance worker do? – Tasks and work environment
A property maintenance worker is responsible for ensuring that properties and their technical systems operate smoothly. Tasks include ongoing supervision, repairs, troubleshooting, and preventive maintenance of buildings, electrical, and plumbing systems, as well as outdoor environments. The role is often practical and requires quick and efficient handling of various technical problems. Work takes place both indoors and outdoors, sometimes in varying weather conditions, and involves regular contact with tenants, contractors, and other professionals in the property industry. Flexibility and problem-solving skills are essential qualities in this profession.
Salary development over time
Property maintenance workers have seen steady salary increases in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,300 SEK per month. In 2023, the average rose to 31 000 SEK, a roughly 2.3% increase. In 2024, salary development shows a further rise to 32 400 SEK, an approximate change of 4.5% compared to the previous year. This salary increase can partly be explained by increased demand for technical skills and general salary trends within the property sector. Despite some regional variation, the trend is clear: the profession has become somewhat better paid, although differences between genders and education levels persist.
Property maintenance worker salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 32 400 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 22,600 SEK/month (female), 26,500 SEK/month (male)
- Highest salary: 38,800 SEK/month (male, with further education), 37,900 SEK/month (female)
- Hourly wage (average): 195 SEK
- Gender differences: Women earn 98% of what men do (31 900 SEK vs 32 500 SEK)
- Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on location and employer
Education and qualifications
To work as a property maintenance worker, a high school education in property management, technology, or construction is often required. Many employers also seek practical experience or supplementary courses in electrical work, plumbing, or ventilation. The educational path can vary, but it is common to combine vocational training with internships to acquire sufficient skills and knowledge.
- High school education: Property, construction, or technology programs (3 years)
- Vocational college: Specialized training in property operation (1–2 years)
- Certifications: Courses in electrical work, plumbing, ventilation, or control systems
- Internships: Strongly recommended for insight into the profession
- Prerequisites: Technical interest and problem-solving skills
Many property maintenance workers report that the variety of tasks makes the profession unique – no two days are alike, providing good opportunities to develop broad technical knowledge and social skills.
Common benefits and compensations
Property maintenance workers are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, work clothing and tools, and sometimes access to company cars depending on tasks. Other common compensations include overtime pay, extra vacation days, and collective insurance schemes. Opportunities for further training and skills development are also available with many employers in the industry.
Competition and challenges
The profession of property maintenance worker is currently characterized by some competition, with the supply of labor nationally considered larger than demand. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, job opportunities are limited and the recruitment situation is marked by a surplus of applicants. Over the next five years, demand is expected to remain unchanged, requiring applicants to distinguish themselves through proper education and experience. The industry is also affected by technological development and increased demands for energy efficiency, which may entail new skill requirements and challenges related to ongoing training and adaptation.
Tips for aspiring property maintenance workers
To succeed as a property maintenance worker, it is good to be both solution-oriented and service-minded. A strong technical interest facilitates troubleshooting and system maintenance. Being thorough and organized helps plan preventive work and minimize urgent problems. Flexibility is important, as workdays often present unexpected challenges, and social skills ease interactions with tenants and colleagues. It is recommended to seek internships early to gain insight into the industry, and to continuously pursue further education in new technical solutions. The ability to work independently and prioritize tasks is also crucial for thriving and developing in the profession.
Key facts about property maintenance workers
- Education level: High school or vocational college education recommended
- Work environment: Both indoors and outdoors, often with varied workdays
- Demand: Limited job opportunities nationwide, surplus of applicants
- Job openings: 481 positions within the profession in Sweden
- Special skills: Electrical work, plumbing, ventilation, and control systems are advantageous
Career paths and future prospects
After a few years in the profession, property maintenance workers have opportunities to take on more specialized roles, such as technical manager, supervisor, or energy efficiency specialist. Further education in control systems, building automation, or project management can lead to more qualified positions with greater responsibility. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the job market is expected to be stable but with limited opportunities for new jobs, making competition for available positions high. At the same time, technological advances and increased sustainability requirements open new career paths for those investing in further training and certifications within industry-specific areas.
Frequently asked questions about property maintenance workers
- What is the average salary of a property maintenance worker?
- The average salary is 32 400 SEK per month.
- What do gender differences in salary look like?
- Women earn 31 900 SEK, which is 98% of men's salary of 32 500 SEK.
- What is required to become a property maintenance worker?
- A high school education in technology, construction, or property management, along with practical experience, is usually required.
- What does the job market look like?
- There is a surplus of labor and limited opportunities for new jobs nationwide.
- What are the most common job tasks?
- Supervision, repairs, maintenance of buildings and technical systems, and contact with tenants.
- Are there development opportunities in the profession?
- Yes, further education and experience can lead to roles such as technical manager or supervisor.
- How high can the salary go?
- The highest reported salary is 38,800 SEK per month.
