Coastal Radio Assistant

What does a Coastal Radio Assistant do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Coastal Radio Assistant manages radio communication and monitors maritime safety along Sweden's coasts. Tasks include receiving and relaying emergency calls, guiding ships, and coordinating with rescue services during accidents or incidents at sea. Administrative work such as logging, reporting, and technical supervision of radio systems is also included. The work environment is typically in control rooms with shift work, requiring high concentration and the ability to make quick decisions. The role often involves working under pressure and demands good teamwork and a high level of responsibility for people's safety.

Salary development over time

The salary trend for Coastal Radio Assistants has shown a stable and positive development over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,000 SEK per month, increasing to 32 800 SEK in 2023 and reaching 33 700 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of approximately 8.7% during the period. The salary increase can largely be explained by an increased focus on maritime safety and the need for specialized personnel in radio communication, as well as competition within related security and surveillance fields. The market has been relatively stable, and demand for qualified Coastal Radio Assistants has kept salaries high, especially in the private sector where some salary differentiation exists. Gender pay gaps persist, although the gap has narrowed slightly during the period.

Coastal Radio Assistant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 32,900 SEK/month (female, private sector)
• Highest salary: 34,600 SEK/month (male, private sector)
• Hourly wage: 203 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 33 300 SEK, men 34,600 SEK – women earn 96% of men's salary
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on location and employer, but larger differences are rare within this profession.

Education and qualifications

To work as a Coastal Radio Assistant, a high school diploma is usually required, along with specialized internal training in maritime radio communication and alarm management. Many employers also prefer experience from maritime work, security, or related fields. Technical interest, good multitasking ability, and clear verbal and written communication skills are important qualities for the profession.

• High school diploma: Technology, maritime, or social sciences
• Internal training: Practical and theoretical training in radio systems and alarm management (typically 3–6 months)
• Internship: Workplace-based introduction and supervision
• Prerequisites: Good Swedish and English, basic IT skills
• Certifications: Some employers may require certificates or courses in maritime safety or crisis management

Common benefits and compensations

Coastal Radio Assistants are often offered benefits such as shift allowances, overtime pay, wellness contributions, and opportunities for skills development. Many employers also provide additional vacation days and pension contributions. For those working in the public sector, more secure employment conditions and collective agreements may apply.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as a Coastal Radio Assistant is moderate, as the job market is characterized by a balance between supply and demand. There are approximately 190 job openings in the SOS operator field, providing reasonable opportunities for recent graduates and experienced candidates to find employment. Challenges in the profession include high workload during incidents, the need for constant vigilance, and the ability to handle stressful situations. Technological developments increase demands for ongoing training, but the human factor will always be critical for maritime safety. Those who are flexible and willing to work shifts have good prospects for establishing themselves in the profession.

Tips for aspiring Coastal Radio Assistants

To succeed as a Coastal Radio Assistant, it is helpful to combine technical interest with high stress tolerance and good communication skills. Familiarity with radio systems and digital tools early on facilitates training, and carefulness along with strong multitasking ability helps manage daily work. A commitment to maritime safety and a willingness to take responsibility make a significant difference, especially in emergency situations. Flexibility and openness to shift work are also advantages, as working hours often vary. The ability to analyze information quickly and make decisions under pressure provides good opportunities for success and development in the role. Lastly, demonstrating teamwork skills is essential, as much of the work is team-based and requires good communication with colleagues and external actors.

Key facts about Coastal Radio Assistants

• Education level: High school diploma + internal training
• Work environment: Control room, shift work
• Demand: Moderate, around 190 job openings in the field
• Typical employment: Full-time, often shift-based
• Special skills: Radio communication and crisis management

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a Coastal Radio Assistant, opportunities exist to advance to specialist roles within maritime safety, training, or supervisory positions in control room environments. Some choose to further their education as alarm operators or move into more technically advanced roles within maritime authorities or private security companies. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts for SOS operators and alarm operators, the job market is expected to remain balanced, with demand steady over the next five years. Technological advancements and digitalization may change job content, but the need for qualified personnel is expected to persist. Those interested in further development have good opportunities for both internal and external training within the safety sector.

Frequently asked questions about Coastal Radio Assistants

• What does a Coastal Radio Assistant earn?
  - A Coastal Radio Assistant has an average salary of 33 700 SEK per month. Men earn an average of 34,600 SEK and women 33 300 SEK.
• What education is required to become a Coastal Radio Assistant?
  - A high school diploma and internal training in radio systems and alarm management are required. Some employers prefer experience from maritime or security work.
• What is the work environment like for a Coastal Radio Assistant?
  - Work takes place in control room environments with shift work, sometimes under stressful conditions.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn approximately 96% of what men do in this profession.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The job market is considered balanced, and demand for Coastal Radio Assistants is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What benefits are common in the profession?
  - Common benefits include overtime pay, shift allowances, wellness contributions, and opportunities for skills development.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - High stress tolerance, good communication skills, accuracy, and a sense of responsibility are key qualities.