Ice worker, assembly

What does an installation ice worker do? – Tasks and work environment

An installation ice worker primarily works with laying, maintaining, and repairing ice surfaces, such as in ice rinks, skating arenas, or other facilities with artificial ice. Tasks include spreading and leveling ice, as well as installing and servicing peripheral equipment such as barriers, goal frames, and lighting. The work is often done in close collaboration with technicians, janitors, and sometimes event organizers. The work environment is cold and humid, requiring appropriate equipment and personal endurance. Safety procedures are central, especially when handling machinery and chemicals used in ice production.

Salary development over time

The salary development for installation ice workers has been stable but has shown some growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 32,900 SEK per month, increasing to 35 500 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 36 400 SEK. This represents an increase of approximately 11% over the three-year period. The salary increase can be explained by high demand for the profession, increased awareness of work environment risks and thus requirements for competence, as well as general wage adjustments within the construction and civil engineering sectors. Gender differences still persist, with women earning slightly less than their male colleagues, although the gap has narrowed somewhat during this period.

Installation ice worker salaries – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 36 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 35,200 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 38,900 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 219 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Men 36 500 SEK/month, women 35,200 SEK/month (women earn 96% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Highest salary (38,900 SEK) within regional sectors, high school education up to 2 years

Education and qualifications

To work as an installation ice worker, a high school diploma is usually required, preferably with a focus on construction, civil engineering, or operational technology. Practical experience is highly valued, and many employers offer internal training or internships to ensure the right skills. Professional certificates are rarely a formal requirement but can be advantageous, especially for those wishing to develop within the profession or take on more specialized tasks.

• High school education: Construction and civil engineering programs or similar (3 years)
• Internships: Internships or trainee positions are often offered at facilities
• Internal courses: Employers often provide training in safety and machinery handling
• Prerequisites: Basic technical knowledge and good physical condition
• Tips for choosing: Interest in technology, service, and working in cold environments facilitates entry

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for installation ice workers include overtime pay for evening and weekend work, wellness allowances, work clothing, and protective gear. In some cases, opportunities for further training, free parking, and subsidized meals are offered. Working hours can be irregular, which is often compensated with extra pay.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as installation ice workers is moderate but can vary depending on season and location. Challenges in the profession often relate to the work environment, where cold and humidity place strain on both equipment and personnel. Physical strength and endurance are important, especially for heavy lifting and monotonous tasks. Technological changes and demands for energy efficiency also require ongoing skills development. For those wishing to advance, opportunities exist but often require experience and specialized knowledge.

Tips for those who want to become installation ice workers

To succeed as an installation ice worker, it is good to have a strong sense of responsibility and accuracy, as safety on the ice must always be prioritized. An interest in technology helps when handling or troubleshooting machinery and equipment, and good physical condition is necessary to cope with physically demanding tasks. Flexibility is a valuable asset, especially since working hours are often irregular and may include evening and weekend shifts. Teamwork skills are important as the work is often done in teams, and the ability to quickly adapt to new situations or urgent problems is crucial. A positive attitude towards working in cold environments, along with the willingness to constantly learn new tasks and techniques, is beneficial.

Key facts about installation ice workers

• Education level: High school diploma, often with construction or civil engineering focus
• Work environment: Cold, humid, and often physically demanding
• Typical work form: Shift work, including evenings and weekends
• Demand: 379 job openings in the profession (2024)
• Special skills: Machinery handling and safety procedures

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an installation ice worker, opportunities exist to advance to supervisor, operations manager, or technical specialist within ice and facility management. Further education in property maintenance or technical management is also common. The job market is considered stable according to the Swedish Public Employment Service, with strong demand for trained personnel and continued need for installation ice workers as new facilities are built and old ones modernized. Digitalization and environmental requirements may influence the profession in the future, making ongoing training advantageous for those who want to develop within the field.

Common questions about installation ice workers

• What does an installation ice worker earn?
  - The average salary is 36 400 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and sector.
• What education is required to become an installation ice worker?
  - High school education, preferably with a focus on construction or civil engineering, as well as practical training or internships.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 96% of what men do in the profession.
• What is the work environment like for installation ice workers?
  - The work takes place in cold, humid environments and can be physically demanding.
• What career opportunities are there?
  - Advancement to supervisor, operations manager, or specialist roles within facility management is possible.
• What are the future prospects?
  - Demand is strong, with 379 job openings in the profession currently.
• What benefits are common?
  - Overtime pay, wellness allowances, work clothing, and sometimes further training are often offered.