Coast Guard Assistant

What does a Coast Guard Assistant do? – tasks and work environment

A Coast Guard Assistant works to monitor Sweden's coasts, seas, and internal waterways to enforce laws and protect the environment. Tasks include maritime surveillance, control of shipping, environmental rescue, crime prevention, and responses to accidents and spills. The work often takes place onboard ships or boats and involves shift work, sometimes under challenging weather conditions and during uncomfortable hours. Collaboration with other authorities such as the police and customs is common, and the work environment is characterized by high safety standards, physical endurance, and flexibility.

Salary development over time

The salary for Coast Guard Assistants has shown a clear positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 38,300 SEK per month, which increased to 38 800 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary reached 41,000 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 7% over three years. This salary development reflects a growing demand for qualified personnel in the Coast Guard, driven by societal needs and increased requirements for education and specialized skills. Salaries are also influenced by collective agreements and government investments in safety and environmental protection, leading to a steady enhancement of the profession's attractiveness.

Coast Guard Assistant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 41,000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,500 SEK/month (female, public sector)
• Highest salary: 46,100 SEK/month (male, private sector, up to 2 years of upper secondary education)
• Highest salary for women: 41,000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary for men: 40,800 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 246 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 94% of what men do (39 600 SEK vs 42 000 SEK)
• Regional differences: Not specified

Education and qualifications

To work as a Coast Guard Assistant, a completed and approved basic education at the Coast Guard's own school is required, including both theoretical and practical components. The training covers maritime law, environmental protection, navigation, physical training, and onboard practice. The selection process is competitive and requires high proficiency in swimming, physical ability, and personal suitability.

• Formal education: Coast Guard basic training (approx. 1.5–2 years)
• Prerequisites: Swedish citizenship, B driving license, approved security clearance
• Certifications: Special licenses for maritime operations and environmental rescue
• Practical training: Mandatory onboard service during training
• Tips for applicants: Good physical condition, swimming skills, and interest in environmental and safety issues

Common benefits and allowances

Coast Guard Assistants are covered by government collective agreements and often receive benefits such as extra vacation days, shift allowances, wellness grants, pension contributions, and opportunities for further training. The job also includes allowances during on-call duty and extra pay for work under particularly demanding conditions.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as a Coast Guard Assistant is relatively high, as the number of training places is limited and the selection process is strict. Physical and mental endurance are carefully tested, and the work environment can be physically demanding and psychologically stressful. Variable working hours, long periods at sea, and working under pressure require flexibility and teamwork skills. Additionally, technological changes and increased digital demands mean continuous training is necessary to maintain employability.

Tips for aspiring Coast Guard Assistants

To succeed as a Coast Guard Assistant, it is beneficial to combine attention to detail and stress resilience with a desire to continuously develop. Maintaining good physical condition is crucial, as the role requires strength and endurance – regular training and swimming skills are important preparations. Demonstrating good teamwork and communication skills during the selection process increases chances of admission, as the work often occurs in teams under pressure. An interest in environmental issues and societal safety provides a clearer understanding of the profession's purpose and tasks. Being flexible and adaptable facilitates handling varying work hours and unexpected events. Finally, high integrity and a sense of responsibility are highly valued, as the role involves a significant trust from society.

Key facts about Coast Guard Assistants

• Education level: Coast Guard basic training (1.5–2 years)
• Work environment: Onboard ships, shift work, and field operations
• Demand: 190 job openings within the profession (May 2024)
• Salary gap: Women earn 94% of men's salary
• Profession area: Safety and surveillance

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a Coast Guard Assistant, there are opportunities to further train as an officer within the Coast Guard, specialize in environmental rescue, sea rescue, or work in training and management. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts for customs and coast guard officials, no precise assessment of future prospects is available due to limited data, but indications point to continued demand for personnel in the field. The 190 available positions suggest the job market remains relatively stable with good chances of employment after completing training. Specialization and further education can improve career prospects further.

Frequently asked questions about Coast Guard Assistants

• What does a Coast Guard Assistant earn?
  - A Coast Guard Assistant has an average salary of 41,000 SEK per month. Men earn on average 42 000 SEK and women 39 600 SEK.
• What education is required to become a Coast Guard Assistant?
  - A completed and approved basic education at the Coast Guard's own school, including both theoretical and practical components.
• Are there many job openings for Coast Guard Assistants?
  - Within the profession of customs and coast guard officials, there were 190 job openings in May 2024.
• What is the work environment like for Coast Guard Assistants?
  - Work mainly onboard ships and involves shift work, sometimes under tough weather conditions and at inconvenient hours.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn approximately 94% of what men do in the profession.
• What are the career opportunities?
  - After some years, there are opportunities to advance to officer roles or specialize within the Coast Guard.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a Coast Guard Assistant?
  - The highest salary is 46,100 SEK (male, private sector). The lowest is 38,500 SEK (female, public sector).