Sports field workers

What does a sports ground worker do? – Tasks and work environment

A sports ground worker is responsible for the maintenance, operation, and upkeep of sports facilities, both indoors and outdoors. Tasks include preparing football fields, ice rinks, or running tracks, as well as maintaining changing rooms, stands, and surrounding environments. The role often involves practical work with machinery and tools, such as lawnmowers and snow removal equipment, as well as checking lighting and irrigation systems. The work environment can vary with the season and weather, as work is often outdoors and requires physical endurance, flexibility, and attention to detail.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for sports ground workers has shown a steady upward trend. In 2022, the average salary was 30,300 SEK, which increased to 31 000 SEK in 2023 and further to 32 400 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 7% during the period. The salary growth has been somewhat stronger in the past year, mainly due to increased demand for maintenance personnel and generally higher wage increases within property maintenance. Despite this, the profession still falls within the lower salary range compared to other technical maintenance careers, partly due to low formal education requirements and competition for positions.

Sports ground worker salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 32 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 22,600 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 38,800 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 195 SEK
• Women: 31 900 SEK/month (98% of men's salary)
• Men: 32 500 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Limited; salary levels are relatively uniform across the country

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a sports ground worker usually goes through high school education in property maintenance or technical programs, but it is also possible to learn the profession through practical training and work experience. Ability to handle machinery, solve technical problems, and work independently are important qualifications. Some employers may require a driver’s license or specific machine certifications.

• High school education: Property maintenance or equivalent (3 years)
• Vocational courses: Machinery handling, green space maintenance, work environment
• Practical training: Often a requirement for internships or apprenticeship periods
• Driver’s license: Often desirable, sometimes required
• Machine certificates: Meritorious for certain tasks

Common benefits and compensations

Sports ground workers are often covered by collective agreements that may provide additional vacation days, evening and weekend overtime pay, and wellness allowances. In some cases, work clothing, tools, and training opportunities are provided by the employer. Pension schemes and insurance are usually included.

Competition and challenges

Within the property maintenance sector, where sports ground workers belong, there is some competition for positions. The Swedish Public Employment Service’s projections estimate limited job opportunities, and the recruitment situation is characterized by an oversupply of applicants. This can make it difficult to secure permanent employment, especially in regions with fewer sports facilities. At the same time, there are about 481 job openings within the profession, indicating some mobility. Challenges often include seasonal variations, physically demanding tasks, and sometimes irregular working hours.

Tips for aspiring sports ground workers

To succeed as a sports ground worker, it’s beneficial to have practical skills, be solution-oriented, and have a genuine interest in sports environments. Developing technical skills, such as machinery handling and basic repairs, increases employment opportunities. A high level of service and good teamwork skills are important, as the work is often performed in teams and involves contact with clubs and the public. Flexibility is helpful, especially during peak seasons or events when workload can vary greatly. Showing engagement and responsibility is appreciated by employers and can lead to greater independence in tasks. Being thorough and maintaining order at the workplace is also important for safety and well-being.

Key facts about sports ground workers

• Education level: High school diploma, often property or technical programs
• Work environment: Varied, both outdoor and indoor, physically active
• Employment type: Full-time, part-time, and seasonal employment are common
• Demand: Limited opportunities for new jobs according to the Swedish Public Employment Service
• Special skills: Machinery handling and green space maintenance are advantageous

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience as a sports ground worker, there are opportunities to advance to supervisory roles, such as operations manager or facility manager. Further education in property maintenance or specialization in technical work can open doors to broader tasks, such as property technician or caretaker responsible for larger facilities. The Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts indicate that demand for sports ground workers and related professions is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with some oversupply in the labor market. Nevertheless, recruitment continues, especially in larger cities and where sports facilities are being built or modernized.

Common questions about sports ground workers

• What is the average salary for a sports ground worker?
  - The average salary for a sports ground worker is 32 400 SEK per month.
• How large is the salary difference between women and men?
  - Women earn on average 98% of what men do in the profession.
• What education is required to become a sports ground worker?
  - High school education in property maintenance or technical programs is recommended, preferably with practical training or vocational courses.
• Are there many jobs available for sports ground workers?
  - There are 481 job openings, but competition for permanent positions is relatively high.
• What tasks are included in the job?
  - Maintenance and care of sports facilities, machine handling, and environmental service of the facility.
• What does the future look like for sports ground workers?
  - Demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries in the profession?
  - The highest salary is 38,800 SEK and the lowest is 22,600 SEK per month.