Kocksteward

What does a Kocksteward do? – Tasks and work environment

A Kocksteward usually works in large kitchens, restaurants, hotels, ships, or within public operations and has a role that combines kitchen work with responsibility for order, hygiene, and logistics. Tasks include supporting chefs and managing dishwashing, cleaning, receiving and storing goods, as well as monitoring hygiene routines in the kitchen. The profession requires good teamwork, accuracy, and the ability to handle stressful situations. The work environment is characterized by a fast pace, varying working hours, and physical work often involving heavy lifting and long hours on foot.

Salary development over time

The salary for a Kocksteward has shown a steady increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 29,000 SEK per month, which increased to 30 700 SEK in 2023 and reached 31 400 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to an increase of about 8.3 percent over the period, which is slightly higher than the average salary increase rate for similar professions. The positive trend can partly be explained by continued high demand for skilled workers in the restaurant and large kitchen industries, especially since many employers report difficulties in finding suitable staff. The increase is also influenced by collective agreement raises and an increased focus on working conditions and skills development within the industry. Although salary levels still vary depending on experience and employer, the profession has generally strengthened financially in recent years.

Kocksteward salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 31 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (female): 27,100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (male): 29,000 SEK/month
• Highest salary (female): 34,800 SEK/month
• Highest salary (male): 44,700 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 189 SEK
• Women earn: 97% of what men do
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a Kocksteward, a basic education in restaurant and large kitchen services is usually required, often at high school level. Many employers value experience from similar work and good knowledge of food handling, hygiene, and work environment regulations. Practical experience can be as important as formal education, especially for those seeking greater responsibility or working at more specialized workplaces.

• High school education: Restaurant and Food Program (3 years)
• Courses: Food hygiene, work environment, and large kitchen management
• Internships: Work-based learning is common
• Certification: Food handling courses may be required
• Prerequisites: Often no formal requirements beyond high school diploma

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for a Kocksteward include overtime pay for evening and weekend work, meals during shifts, staff discounts, and sometimes wellness allowances and uniform allowances. Some workplaces also include collective agreement insurances and pension contributions.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a Kocksteward varies depending on region and workplace type, but there is generally a high demand for personnel in the profession. At the same time, reports indicate paradoxical recruitment difficulties where employers struggle to find qualified candidates despite a relatively high turnover. Challenges often include high work pace, physically demanding tasks, and sometimes insecure employment forms, especially with seasonal or maritime employment. Meeting work environment requirements and maintaining good hygiene standards are also central, requiring ongoing attention and training.

Tips for those who want to become a Kocksteward

To succeed as a Kocksteward, it is good to have a strong sense of service and teamwork, as tasks often require close contact with colleagues and guests. High stress tolerance is important, especially during intensive shifts when the pace is high and many tasks need to be handled simultaneously. Precision and orderliness help maintain the hygiene and safety standards required. Being flexible and prepared to work day, evening, and weekends increases employment opportunities, especially within larger organizations or on ships. Practical experience in restaurants or large kitchens is often advantageous and can be combined with short courses in food handling. Good physical condition facilitates the often heavy lifting and long shifts. Finally, curiosity and willingness to learn new tasks benefit those in the profession, as roles often evolve with kitchen needs and technological changes.

Key facts about Kocksteward

• Education level: High school – restaurant and food services
• Work environment: Large kitchens, restaurants, ships, and hotels
• Work pattern: Shift work, often evenings and weekends
• Demand: Large opportunities for employment nationally
• Special skills: Food hygiene and logistics

Career paths and outlook

After a few years of experience as a Kocksteward, opportunities open to take greater responsibility, such as kitchen supervisor, team leader, or further education to become a chef or kitchen manager. It is also possible to specialize in large kitchens, maritime work, or hotels and restaurants with a focus on logistics and leadership. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast for chefs and cold kitchen staff, opportunities for employment are expected to be large nationally, with demand remaining unchanged over the next five years. Paradoxically, employers report difficulties in finding the right skills, which benefits motivated and well-educated individuals seeking career development.

Frequently asked questions about Kocksteward

• What does a Kocksteward earn?
  - A Kocksteward has an average salary of 31 400 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development been for Kockstewards?
  - The salary development has been positive over the past three years, increasing from 29,000 SEK to 31 400 SEK.
• What education is required to become a Kocksteward?
  - High school education in restaurant and food services is most common, often combined with internships or courses in food hygiene.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn 97% of what men do in the profession.
• What is the job market like for Kockstewards?
  - Opportunities for employment are large nationally, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What are the most common workplaces for a Kocksteward?
  - Large kitchens, restaurants, hotels, ships, and public operations are common workplaces.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a Kocksteward?
  - The highest salary is 44,700 SEK, and the lowest is 27,100 SEK per month.