Fryslagerarbetare

What does a freezer warehouse worker do? – Tasks and work environment

A freezer warehouse worker is responsible for receiving, handling, and storing goods that require cold storage. Tasks include unloading and loading goods, order picking, inventory, and quality checks. The work often occurs in cold rooms or freezer environments where temperatures can be significantly lower than in a regular warehouse, which necessitates proper protective gear and clothing. Efficiency, accuracy, and the ability to collaborate with colleagues are key qualities for success in this role.

Salary development over time

The salary for freezer warehouse workers has shown steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 29800 SEK per month and increased to 31 900 SEK during 2023. This level has remained unchanged through 2024, representing a total salary increase of approximately 7% over three years. The increase between 2022 and 2023 is likely linked to increased demand for warehouse staff due to growing e-commerce and logistics sectors, as well as general labor market pressures to retain and attract personnel in physically demanding jobs. Over the past year, the salary level has stabilized, indicating a more balanced supply and demand situation.

Freezer warehouse worker salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 31 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,200 SEK/month (female), 31,500 SEK/month (male)
• Highest salary: 56,700 SEK/month (male, public sector), 31,400 SEK/month (female)
• Hourly wage: 192 SEK/hour (based on 166 working hours/month)
• Gender differences: Women earn 98% of men's salary (men: 32 000 SEK, women: 31,200 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data on regional differences is unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a freezer warehouse worker, no extensive formal education is typically required; most employers seek basic or high school qualifications. Practical experience in warehousing, logistics, or similar fields is often advantageous. Some employers provide on-site introductory training, and there may be requirements for a forklift license or other relevant certifications. Good physical condition and the ability to work in cold environments are important prerequisites for the profession.

• High school education: Business and administration programs or equivalent
• Forklift license: Common requirement, especially for B-licence
• Introductory training: Often provided on-site
• Internship or experience: Meritorious but not mandatory
• Physical ability: Important for employment

Common benefits and compensation

Freezer warehouse workers often have access to various allowances and compensations, such as evening and weekend shift supplements and cold room allowances for working in cold environments. Many employers also offer wellness benefits, work clothing, and sometimes paid training or skill development. Other common benefits include occupational pension schemes and insurance linked to collective agreements.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a freezer warehouse worker is generally moderate, but recruitment situations face certain challenges. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, job opportunities are plentiful, but there is a paradoxical situation where it can be difficult to find suitable personnel while unemployment within the profession remains relatively high. Physically demanding tasks, work in low temperatures, and inconvenient working hours contribute to many choosing to leave the profession, leading to high turnover. Despite this, demand remains stable and is expected to be unchanged over the next five years.

Tips for aspiring freezer warehouse workers

To succeed as a freezer warehouse worker, it’s good to have a resilient and positive attitude towards physically demanding work, especially given the cold temperatures and heavy lifting involved. Attention to detail is important because handling goods requires accurate order and inventory management. Flexibility and adaptability to varying work hours, including shifts and inconvenient times, are also advantageous. Good teamwork skills facilitate daily operations, while initiative and independence are valuable when quick decisions are needed. Good physical condition and willingness to learn new work methods make transitioning into the role smoother. Having a forklift license and prior warehouse experience can increase chances of employment.

Key facts about freezer warehouse workers

• Education level: High school diploma or equivalent
• Work environment: Cold storage and freezer environments with low temperatures
• Work type: Shift work is common, both full-time and part-time
• Demand: Great employment opportunities, 412 job openings nationwide
• Special skills: Forklift license and experience with physical work

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience, opportunities open to advance to supervisory roles, such as team leader or warehouse manager. Some choose to further their education in logistics and warehousing to move into planning or coordination roles. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, job opportunities remain large, and demand for qualified freezer warehouse workers is expected to stay stable over the next five years. The high staff turnover and recruitment difficulties mean motivated individuals with the right qualifications have good chances of employment. Developments in automation and digitalization may influence the profession in the future, but the human element remains crucial for safe and efficient freezer storage management.

Frequently asked questions about freezer warehouse workers

• What is the average salary for a freezer warehouse worker?
  - The average salary is 31 900 SEK per month.
• What is the hourly wage for a freezer warehouse worker?
  - The average hourly wage is 192 SEK.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn 98% of what men do in the profession.
• What education is required to become a freezer warehouse worker?
  - High school education and a forklift license are common, but many employers offer on-site introductory training.
• What are the future prospects for freezer warehouse workers?
  - Job opportunities are plentiful, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What is the highest and lowest salary?
  - The highest salary is 56,700 SEK (male, public sector), and the lowest is 31,200 SEK (female).
• What does the work environment look like?
  - The work takes place in cold storage and freezer environments with low temperatures, requiring protective clothing and proper breaks.