Port guard

What does a harbor guard do? – Tasks and work environment

A harbor guard is responsible for monitoring and maintaining safety within port areas. Tasks include controlling incoming and outgoing vehicles and personnel, patrolling the port to prevent theft, sabotage, and other incidents. The harbor guard often collaborates with authorities and other actors to ensure compliance with port regulations and security routines. The work environment is varied and may involve outdoor work in all weather conditions, shift work, and occasionally high-paced situations during large vessel arrivals or special events.

Salary development over time

The salary for a harbor guard has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,700 SEK, increasing to 32 400 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary is 34 500 SEK. This represents a total salary increase of approximately 12.4 % during the period. The development can largely be explained by increased demand for security personnel in port environments and a general appreciation of security work within the transport sector. Additional factors influencing salary levels include education and experience, where longer education and more years of service often lead to higher pay. The trend indicates that the profession remains attractive from a salary perspective and that skills enhancement can be beneficial.

Harbor guard salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 34 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,200 SEK/month (male, government sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 47,100 SEK/month (male, public sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Highest (female): 41,700 SEK/month
• Lowest (female): 30,600 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 207 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn on average 93 % of what men do (32 900 SEK/month vs 35 400 SEK/month)
• Regional differences: Salary variations occur between major cities and smaller ports

Education and qualifications

To work as a harbor guard, a high school diploma is usually required, often with a focus on security or transportation. Many employers prefer candidates who have completed specific security training and hold certificates related to port and maritime security. Practical experience in surveillance or security work is advantageous. Some employers offer internal training, and there are opportunities to supplement with online courses or self-study to strengthen qualifications.

• High school education: Security or transportation programs, 3 years
• Certifications: Courses in port and maritime security, such as ISPS code
• Internship: Often required as an introduction or during employment
• Prerequisites: Approved background check and sometimes driver’s license
• Further education: Opportunities for specialization in security or leadership

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to the base salary, harbor guards often receive overtime pay for unsociable hours, special allowances for night and weekend work, and wellness contributions. Many employers also offer uniform allowances, insurance, and opportunities for skills development. In some cases, meal subsidies and staff discounts are included.

Competition and challenges

The job market for harbor guards is characterized by some competition, especially for positions in larger ports where conditions and salaries are often more attractive. A challenge is working irregular hours and sometimes under stressful conditions, which requires flexibility and stress tolerance. Technological solutions and automation of certain surveillance tasks may affect the demand for traditional harbor guard roles in the long term, but the need for human presence remains during incidents and security checks. Additional challenges include constantly changing security requirements and the need to quickly adapt to new routines.

Tips for those who want to become a harbor guard

To succeed as a harbor guard, it is good to combine thoroughness with good teamwork and stress resilience. Showing initiative by gaining experience in the security industry or through internships provides a clear advantage. Flexibility is important as working hours are often irregular, and the ability to handle unexpected situations is valued by employers. Having good judgment and the ability to make quick decisions is crucial, especially during incidents or security checks. Communication skills are also essential, as collaboration involves many different actors. It can also be valuable to stay updated on port and security regulations to quickly adapt to new requirements. Finally, responsibility and the ability to work independently, especially during evening and night shifts, are appreciated.

Key facts about harbor guards

• Education level: High school diploma, often security or transportation focus
• Work environment: Shift work, outdoor and indoor, sometimes high-paced
• Typical employment: Full-time, but also hourly employment exists
• Demand: 191 job openings within the profession according to current statistics
• Special skills: Port security, ISPS code, good communication skills

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a harbor guard, there are good opportunities to advance to supervisory roles, such as team leader or security coordinator within port operations. Some choose to specialize in training new personnel or work in security planning and risk analysis. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the outlook remains stable, with continued demand for both basic and specialized security personnel in ports. The increasing complexity of port security work and international requirements mean that individuals with further education and language skills are particularly sought after. However, digitalization and automation are expected to change some work tasks, which may lead to new skill requirements in the profession.

Frequently asked questions about harbor guards

• What does a harbor guard earn?
  - A harbor guard has an average salary of 34 500 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and education.
• Are there differences between men and women in the profession?
  - Yes, women earn on average 93 % of what men do, which corresponds to 32 900 SEK compared to 35 400 SEK for men.
• What education is required to become a harbor guard?
  - High school education with a focus on security or transportation is most common, supplemented with certifications in port security.
• What does the job market look like for harbor guards?
  - There is good demand, with 191 job openings according to current statistics.
• What tasks does a harbor guard perform?
  - Tasks include surveillance, patrolling, security checks, and collaboration with authorities.
• Are there opportunities for career development?
  - Yes, after a few years there are opportunities to advance to supervisory roles or specialize in security.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a harbor guard?
  - The highest salary is 47,100 SEK, and the lowest is 30,200 SEK depending on gender, sector, and education level.