Port attendant

What does a hamnbetjänt do? – Tasks and work environment

A hamnbetjänt is responsible for coordinating and supervising port operations, including receiving and shipping goods, coordinating vessel arrivals, and liaising with shipping companies, transporters, and authorities. Tasks often include planning loading and unloading, safety inspections, and administrative work related to transport documents and customs. The work mainly takes place in port areas, often in shifts and sometimes under time pressure, involving both indoor and outdoor environments. A hamnbetjänt needs to be flexible and capable of handling rapid changes in logistics to ensure smooth and safe flow of goods through the port.

Salary development over time

Hamnbetjänters salaries have shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,100 SEK, increasing to 39 000 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has risen further to 40 200 SEK, which represents an approximate 8.3% increase over the three-year period. The positive salary trend can be explained by increased demand for logistics expertise, new technical requirements in port operations, and a greater focus on efficiency and safety. Salary increases have been evenly distributed between genders, although women still earn slightly less than men in the profession. The market is considered stable, indicating that salaries are likely to continue developing in line with industry needs and demands.

Hamnbetjänt salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 40 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 37,400 SEK/month (female, private sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 42,400 SEK/month (male, public sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage (average): 242 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 94% of what men do (men 40 900 SEK, women 38 400 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data varies but generally higher salaries in larger port cities

Education and qualifications

To work as a hamnbetjänt, at least high school education with a focus on transport, logistics, or shipping is usually required. Many employers also seek experience from port operations or similar logistics roles, as well as good proficiency in Swedish and English. Practical experience and technical understanding are important, and opportunities exist to deepen skills through various courses and certifications, such as safety or hazardous goods handling.

• Formal education: High school diploma with focus on transport/logistics (3 years)
• Post-secondary courses/certifications: Examples include hazardous goods, safety, port logistics
• Internship: Often a requirement for practical training or work experience in ports or logistics
• Language skills: Swedish and English, both spoken and written
• Technical understanding: Experience with digital logistics systems is advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Hamnbetjänter often have access to collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, insurance, and shift allowances. Many employers also offer wellness allowances, work clothing, and opportunities for skills development and further training. In some cases, extra compensation is provided for night or weekend work, depending on the workplace agreement.

Competition and challenges

The job market for hamnbetjänter is characterized by a balance between supply and demand. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, opportunities for employment are moderate, with approximately 412 job openings in the profession. Challenges include high workload during certain periods, requirements for continuous updates on safety regulations, and the ability to handle unexpected events. Digitalization of port processes also increases demands for technical competence and adaptability. Competition for the most attractive positions can be fierce, especially in larger ports where experience is highly valued.

Tips for aspiring hamnbetjänt

To succeed as a hamnbetjänt, it is helpful to be service-minded and quick to learn new tasks. Good organizational skills facilitate coordination of multiple tasks simultaneously, and analytical ability helps solve logistical challenges. Flexibility is crucial since workdays can vary and sometimes require quick adjustments. Communication skills and clarity in contacts with colleagues and external partners are essential for smooth workflow. For those looking to develop within the profession, curiosity about technical solutions and active pursuit of further education are advantageous. Engagement in safety issues and responsibility in handling goods are also appreciated by employers.

Key facts about hamnbetjänt

• Education level: High school diploma with focus on transport/logistics
• Work environment: Shift work in ports, both indoors and outdoors
• Demand: Moderate, approximately 412 job openings in the profession
• Gender distribution: Women earn 94% of men's salaries
• Special skills: Hazardous goods, digital logistics systems, safety

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience as a hamnbetjänt, there are opportunities to advance to leadership positions such as supervisor, transport coordinator, or responsible for specific areas like safety or environment. The industry also offers possibilities for specialization, for example in hazardous goods or digital logistics. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, demand for hamnbetjänter and similar roles is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, providing stable future prospects for those wishing to establish themselves in the field. Digitalization and efficiency improvements in port operations may create new roles and requirements, making further education and technical skills increasingly important.

Frequently asked questions about hamnbetjänt

• What is the average salary of a hamnbetjänt?
  - A hamnbetjänt has an average salary of 40 200 SEK per month.
• What is the hourly wage for a hamnbetjänt?
  - The hourly wage for a hamnbetjänt is on average 242 SEK.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 38 400 SEK, which is 94% of men's salaries of 40 900 SEK.
• What education is required to become a hamnbetjänt?
  - High school education with a focus on transport or logistics is recommended, along with practical experience.
• What is the job market like for hamnbetjänter?
  - Opportunities are moderate, and the recruitment situation is balanced according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
• What is the highest salary for a hamnbetjänt?
  - The highest salary is 42,400 SEK for men and 42,000 SEK for women, depending on sector and education level.
• What personal qualities are important in this profession?
  - Organizational skills, flexibility, and good communication skills are especially valued.