What does a wardrobe attendant do? – Tasks and work environment
A wardrobe attendant is responsible for receiving, storing, and handing out outerwear and bags at public venues such as theaters, concert halls, restaurants, and nightclubs. The job often involves greeting guests with good service and a friendly attitude, managing ticketing systems, and maintaining order in the wardrobe area. While the work can be monotonous during quiet periods, a fast pace is often required at the start and end of events. The work environment is characterized by social contact, varying working hours, and sometimes high noise levels, especially during evenings and weekends.
Salary development over time
The salary for wardrobe attendants has increased steadily in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 28,300 SEK per month. In 2023, the salary rose to 29 000 SEK, representing an increase of about 2.5%. In 2024, the average salary is 30 400 SEK, which is an additional increase of over 4.8% from the previous year. Overall, the salary has increased by nearly 7.5% over three years. This development can be partly explained by higher demand for service staff as the events industry recovers after the pandemic, along with some wage adjustments to retain staff in a competitive job market. Women have experienced a slightly stronger salary growth than men, which is reflected in the current gender pay gap.
Wardrobe attendant salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 30 400 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 23,300 SEK/month (men), 27,100 SEK/month (women)
- Highest salary: 33,000 SEK/month (men), 32,100 SEK/month (women)
- Hourly wage: 183 SEK/hour (average, hourly workers)
- Gender differences: Women earn 103% of what men do
- Regional differences: Data not available
Education and qualifications
To work as a wardrobe attendant, no formal education is usually required, but some employers may prefer experience in service industries or references from similar work. Good service skills and accuracy are important qualities, and orientation is often provided on the job. Courses in customer service or security can be advantageous.
- Formal education: None required
- Courses: Customer service, conflict management, and security can be beneficial
- Practical training: Workplace introduction is common
- Prerequisites: Good Swedish language skills, sometimes English, and social competence
- Tips: Experience from other service jobs facilitates employment
Many wardrobe attendants get the opportunity to work at exclusive events and large concerts, providing a unique behind-the-scenes insight and access to exciting environments that few other professions can offer.
Common benefits and compensations
Common benefits for wardrobe attendants include overtime pay for evening and weekend work, compensation for work clothing, and in some cases staff discounts on events or restaurants. Many employers also offer wellness allowances and opportunities for training in customer service or security.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as a wardrobe attendant varies depending on season and region. During autumn and winter, when events and entertainment increase, the demand for wardrobe staff rises. One of the biggest challenges in the profession is managing stressful situations during busy times while maintaining a professional attitude. Security routines and order must be carefully followed, especially at larger events where many guests pass through the wardrobe in a short time. Additionally, physically monotonous tasks and long shifts can be demanding, and the work environment is often noisy and fast-paced.
Tips for those who want to become wardrobe attendants
To succeed as a wardrobe attendant, it is good to be meticulous and organized, as order and control are crucial when managing many guests simultaneously. High service orientation and a friendly attitude make it easier to build good relationships with visitors and colleagues, while flexibility helps during rapid pace changes and unexpected situations. Good stress resistance is a valuable asset during busy times, and it is also important to be able to work both independently and in teams. Being proactive and solution-oriented helps to quickly find solutions if problems arise, and a professional attitude facilitates communication with guests and management.
Key facts about Wardrobe Attendant
- Education level: None required
- Work environment: Public venues, often evening and weekend work
- Common employment type: Hourly or as-needed employment
- Demand: 481 available jobs within the profession (2024)
- Occupational group: Janitors, etc.
Career paths and future prospects
After a few years as a wardrobe attendant, there are opportunities to take on greater responsibility, such as team leader or coordinator at larger event venues. Some choose to further their education in event logistics, security, or property services, which can open doors to new roles within organizations. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, the outlook remains stable, with good demand especially in metropolitan areas and during busy event periods. Work experience in wardrobe management can also be an asset for other service roles or supervisory positions within the entertainment and restaurant industries.
Common questions about Wardrobe Attendant
- What does a Wardrobe Attendant earn?
- The average salary is 30 400 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 183 SEK for hourly workers.
- Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
- Yes, women earn on average 103% of what men do within this profession.
- What education is required to become a wardrobe attendant?
- No formal education is required, but experience in service industries is advantageous.
- What does the job market look like for wardrobe attendants?
- Demand is good, with 481 available jobs according to latest data.
- What are the lowest and highest salaries for wardrobe attendants?
- The lowest salary is 23,300 SEK and the highest is 33,000 SEK per month.
- What are the most common work environments?
- Mainly theaters, arenas, restaurants, and nightclubs.