What does an industrial cleaner do? – Tasks and work environment
An industrial cleaner works with cleaning and maintaining various types of industrial facilities, production plants, and workshops. Tasks often include vacuuming, mopping, machine cleaning, and sanitation of machines and work surfaces, sometimes involving chemicals and specialized equipment. Industrial cleaners often face more demanding work environments than traditional cleaners, with requirements for precision and safety to prevent accidents and maintain hygiene. The work is performed both independently and in teams, often during inconvenient hours or shifts.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, salaries for industrial cleaners have increased steadily. In 2022, the average salary was 25,600 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 26 700 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary is 27 600 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 7.8% over the three-year period. This positive salary trend reflects increased demand for the profession, while inflation and collective bargaining negotiations have contributed to wage rises. The industry’s salary levels are also influenced by work environment requirements and the fact that industrial cleaners often have specialized tasks requiring extra responsibility. Despite the growth, some differences between genders and regions remain.
Industrial cleaner salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 27 600 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 25,600 SEK/month (men), 25,700 SEK/month (women)
- Highest salary: 29,700 SEK/month (men), 28,500 SEK/month (women)
- Hourly wage (average): 166 SEK
- Gender difference: Women earn 96% of what men do (28,500 SEK for men, 27 300 SEK for women)
- Regional differences: Specific data is lacking, but variations occur between urban and rural areas
Education and qualifications
Generally, no lengthy formal education is required to work as an industrial cleaner. Many employers offer internal training and onboarding at the workplace. Some positions may require high school education or specific courses in work environment, chemical handling, and machine cleaning. Practical experience and the ability to follow safety routines are highly valued.
- High school education: No formal requirement, but advantageous
- Internal training: Common with larger employers
- Certifications: Specific courses in work environment and chemical handling may be required
- Internship: Often offered as on-site practical training
- Experience: Previous work in cleaning, industry, or similar fields is advantageous
Many industrial cleaners work in environments where production runs around the clock, making shift work and inconvenient hours common. Flexibility and good physical condition are therefore important qualities for thriving and enduring in the profession.
Common benefits and compensation
Industrial cleaners are often covered by collective agreements that guarantee holiday pay, evening and weekend overtime pay, and occupational pensions. Some employers also offer wellness contributions, work clothing, and additional insurance. Opportunities for further training and skill development may also be available.
Competition and challenges
The competition for jobs as an industrial cleaner is relatively low, as demand for labor is stable and job opportunities are considered large nationwide. However, recruitment can be challenging, especially for full-time positions, since many work part-time in the profession. Physically demanding tasks and high safety requirements can be challenging for some. Additionally, the work requires flexibility regarding working hours and the ability to quickly adapt to changing routines and work environments.
Tips for those who want to become an industrial cleaner
To succeed as an industrial cleaner, attention to detail and flexibility are important, as tasks often vary and require both precision and adaptability. Good physical condition and endurance are valuable, as the work can be physically demanding and involve long shifts or shift work. Responsibility and the ability to follow safety routines carefully, especially when handling machines and chemicals, are also advantageous. Social skills and teamwork ability facilitate collaboration with colleagues and other professionals at the workplace. Showing interest in further training and taking initiative can open up more development opportunities within the profession. Finally, resilience and effective time management are valuable for handling stress and meeting deadlines.
Key facts about industrial cleaners
- Education level: Often no formal education required
- Work environment: Industrial settings, often shift work
- Common employment form: Full-time or part-time, both independently and in teams
- Demand: Large opportunities nationwide
- Special skills: Mechanical cleaning and chemical handling may be required
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as an industrial cleaner, there are opportunities to take on more advanced roles, such as supervisor or responsible for training new staff. Some choose to specialize in areas like mechanical cleaning, sanitation, or work environment. According to the Swedish Employment Service’s forecasts, job opportunities for industrial cleaners are expected to remain large over the next five years, with unchanged demand nationwide. Recruitment difficulties exist, which means good chances for those seeking work in the field. There is also potential for further education into roles within sanitation, cleaning, or management.
Frequently asked questions about industrial cleaners
- What is the average salary of an industrial cleaner?
- An industrial cleaner has an average salary of 27 600 SEK per month.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, men earn on average 28,500 SEK, while women earn 27 300 SEK per month.
- What is the highest salary for an industrial cleaner?
- The highest salary is 29,700 SEK per month and belongs to a man with post-secondary education working as a private employee.
- Is education required to become an industrial cleaner?
- No, usually no formal education is needed as on-the-job training is provided.
- What are the future prospects for industrial cleaners?
- Job opportunities are considered large, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
- What benefits are common in the profession?
- Common benefits include collective agreements, overtime pay for evenings and weekends, occupational pensions, and wellness contributions.
- Is there potential for career development?
- Yes, opportunities exist to become a supervisor or specialize in mechanical cleaning and sanitation.
