What does a cemetery technician do? – Tasks and work environment
Cemetery technicians are responsible for maintaining and developing cemeteries, including everything from garden care and grave maintenance to planning new installations. Tasks vary depending on the season and the size of the operation but often include planting, pruning, mowing, snow removal, and handling machinery and tools. Contact with relatives and collaboration with colleagues are natural parts of the job. The work environment is primarily outdoors and involves both physical work and administrative tasks, especially regarding orders and documentation related to interments and maintenance.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, salaries for cemetery technicians have shown steady growth. In 2022, the average salary was 29,100 SEK per month, increasing to 30 500 SEK in 2023 and further to 30 800 SEK in 2024. The total increase amounts to about 6% over the period, in line with salary trends in the green sector. Salary development has been influenced by a combination of collective agreements, increased demands for technical skills, and some regional competition for labor. Despite this, the profession still exhibits relatively small salary differences between employers, though some variation exists depending on municipal or private employment.
Cemetery technician salary – full overview
- Average salary: 30 800 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 26,700 SEK/month (female, private sector employee)
- Highest salary: 34,600 SEK/month (female, municipal sector)
- Hourly wage: 185 SEK
- Gender difference: Women earn 96% of what men do (men 31 200 SEK, women 29 900 SEK)
- Regional differences: Data unavailable
Education and qualifications
To work as a cemetery technician, a high school diploma in horticulture, land and construction, or similar is usually required. Many employers also seek practical experience and relevant certifications for machinery and tasks. The education can be supplemented with shorter courses, internships, or apprenticeships to improve employability.
- High school education: Horticulture, land and construction, 3 years
- Certifications: Machine operator license, chainsaw certification
- Internship: Often a requirement for practical experience or apprenticeships
- Additional courses: For example, work environment, plant knowledge
- Prerequisites: No formal higher education required, but practical experience is highly valued
Many cemetery technicians have the opportunity to work with cultural and historical sites, providing a unique insight into Swedish history and tradition. It is also common for the work to involve participation in larger renovation projects or collaboration with landscape architects to preserve and develop the cemetery's character.
Common benefits and compensation
Cemetery technicians are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, work clothing, extra vacation days, and sometimes access to company vehicles. Some employers also provide subsidized meals, skills development, and flexible working hours depending on the season and operational needs.
Challenges and competition
Despite a stable number of positions in the profession, competition for jobs as a cemetery technician is relatively high, especially since the Employment Service assesses an oversupply of labor nationwide. Job opportunities are limited, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Challenges include physically demanding tasks, working in varying weather conditions, and an increasing need for technical skills and documentation. Temporary work peaks may occur seasonally, requiring flexibility and good planning skills.
Tips for aspiring cemetery technicians
To succeed as a cemetery technician, it is helpful to have a genuine interest in outdoor work and nature. Precision is important since grave care and land maintenance require accuracy and respect for the site’s significance. Good physical condition makes practical, often heavy work easier, while teamwork skills facilitate collaboration and contact with relatives. Flexibility is a strength, as tasks vary with the seasons, and an open mind for new technology and machinery is advantageous as the profession develops. Continuous training in plant knowledge and work environment issues also increases employment chances and career development.
Key facts about Cemetery Technicians
- Education level: High school (horticulture, land and construction)
- Work environment: Outdoors, physically demanding
- Typical employment: Seasonal and full-time employment
- Demand: Limited opportunities, oversupply of labor
- Number of available jobs: Approximately 360 within the profession
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession, a cemetery technician can advance to supervisor, site manager, or specialize in areas such as garden design, machinery maintenance, or management. There are also opportunities to further train as a horticulturist or landscape engineer. According to the Employment Service's forecast for the gardening and landscaping group, which includes cemetery technicians, demand remains unchanged nationally, and competition for jobs is expected to stay high. Those wishing to develop within the profession should be prepared to take on additional responsibilities, pursue further training, and remain flexible in their career choices.
Frequently asked questions about Cemetery Technicians
- What does a Cemetery Technician earn?
– The average salary is 30 800 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 185 SEK.
- What education is required to become a cemetery technician?
– High school education in horticulture or land and construction is recommended.
- Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
– Yes, women earn approximately 96% of what men do in the profession.
- What is the job market like?
– There is a surplus of labor nationwide and limited job opportunities.
- What are the most common tasks?
– Grave maintenance, planting, pruning, machinery maintenance, and customer contact.
- Can I further my education in the field?
– Yes, additional training such as horticulturist or supervisor is possible.
- What is the highest and lowest salary?
– Highest salary: 34,600 SEK (female, municipal sector), lowest salary: 26,700 SEK (female, private sector employee).
