What does a Kokerska do? – Tasks and working environment
A Kokerska is responsible for cooking and preparing food in large kitchens, schools, preschools, elderly care homes, or other larger institutions. Tasks include menu planning, special diets, purchasing ingredients, cooking, and serving. The work often involves following strict hygiene regulations and handling large quantities of food efficiently and safely. The Kokerska typically collaborates with other kitchen staff and works closely with dietitians or kitchen managers to ensure the food meets nutritional requirements and guest or user preferences. The working environment is characterized by a fast pace, occasional heavy lifting, and work under time pressure, especially during serving times.
Salary development over time
The salary of a Kokerska has shown a steady but clear increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 29,000 SEK per month, rising to 30 700 in 2023. In 2024, the average salary is 31 400, representing a total increase of approximately 8.2% during this period. This development can be explained by an increased need for qualified kitchen staff, especially in the public sector, as well as higher demands for special diets and food quality. Market demand for educated staff and recruitment difficulties have also contributed to the positive salary trend. Despite the increase, some salary differences between men and women remain, with women earning on average 97% of what men do. The salary trend is expected to remain stable as the job market for Kokerskor is considered good.
Kokerska salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 31 400 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 27,100 SEK/month (female, pre-high school education)
- Highest salary: 44,700 SEK/month (male, public sector, post-secondary education)
- Hourly wage: 189 SEK/hour
- Women earn: 30 900 SEK/month (97% of men's salary)
- Men earn: 31 900 SEK/month
- Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on location and sector, with larger cities and the public sector often offering higher wages.
Education and qualifications
To work as a Kokerska, a high school education in restaurant and food services or equivalent experience from large kitchens or restaurants is usually required. Some employers also require specific certificates in food hygiene and special diets. Practical experience is highly valued and can be complemented with shorter courses or training in the field.
- High school education: Restaurant and Food Program (3 years)
- Courses and certifications: Food hygiene, special diets, allergy management
- Practical training: Internships are often included during education
- Prerequisites: Basic education required
- Further education: Possible via vocational college or specialized courses
Working as a Kokerska often offers the opportunity to influence menus and workflow, especially in smaller kitchens. Creativity and engagement can lead to new dishes and better food experiences for guests or users.
Common benefits and compensations
Kokerskor are often offered benefits such as subsidized lunches, wellness allowances, work clothing, and sometimes opportunities for further training. Working hours are often daytime, especially in the public sector, which facilitates work-life balance. Some workplaces also offer extra compensation for unsocial hours or weekend work.
Competition and challenges
The job market for Kokerskor is characterized by a paradox where there are both recruitment difficulties and a high proportion of part-time workers or those leaving the profession. Despite large employment opportunities, challenges remain regarding work environment, workload, and sometimes limited career development within certain organizations. Competition for permanent positions can be high in larger cities or popular workplaces, while smaller towns often face shortages of qualified personnel. The ability to handle stress, work effectively in teams, and adapt to changing routines is crucial for success in the profession.
Tips for those who want to become a Kokerska
To succeed as a Kokerska, it is important to have a strong sense of order and hygiene, which facilitates handling large quantities of food and contributes to a safe working environment. Being flexible and able to adapt quickly to changes is valuable, especially during service or when handling special diet requests. Good communication skills and teamwork help create a positive kitchen climate and facilitate collaboration with colleagues and other professionals. A problem-solving attitude makes it easier to handle unexpected challenges, such as shortages of ingredients or time constraints. Engagement and interest in cooking also contribute to development and creating a joyful food experience for those served. Applying for internships and accepting feedback provide valuable experience and open doors to future employment. Finally, patience and stress resilience are qualities that help manage workdays with high tempo and many tasks.
Key facts about Kokerska
- Education level: High school diploma in restaurant and food services
- Work environment: Large kitchens, schools, elderly care homes, and public organizations
- Typical working hours: Daytime, full-time or part-time
- Demand: Great opportunities for work nationwide
- Special skills: Food hygiene and special diets
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession, a Kokerska can advance to roles such as kitchen manager, head chef, or specialize in areas such as special diets or dietetics. The Employment Service assesses that opportunities within the group of cooks and cold kitchen staff, including Kokerskor, remain strong. In five years, demand is expected to stay the same, but recruitment difficulties will persist, especially for qualified personnel. Those who wish to develop further can also pursue additional training in leadership or food handling, opening up broader responsibilities and higher salaries. According to Employment Service forecasts, there are currently 123 job openings in the profession.
Frequently asked questions about Kokerska
- What is the average salary of a Kokerska?
- A Kokerska has an average salary of 31 400 SEK per month.
- What education is required to become a Kokerska?
- A high school education in restaurant and food services is recommended, along with courses in food hygiene and special diets.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn on average 97% of what men do in the profession.
- What does the job market look like for Kokerskor?
- Opportunities for employment are plentiful and demand is expected to remain unchanged in the coming years.
- Which workplaces hire Kokerskor?
- Common workplaces include schools, preschools, elderly care homes, and other large kitchens within the public sector.
- What are the career opportunities?
- Experience can lead to roles such as kitchen manager, head chef, or specialization in nutrition and dietetics.
