Church caretaker

What does a Kyrkvaktmästare do? – Tasks and work environment

A Kyrkvaktmästare is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of church buildings, cemeteries, and sometimes also parish halls. Tasks range from practical work such as gardening, snow shoveling, and property maintenance to preparing and assisting during services, baptisms, weddings, and funerals. The role often includes handling sound and lighting systems, as well as contact with visitors and congregation members. The work environment involves outdoor work in varying weather conditions, but also indoor work in churches and parish facilities, requiring flexibility and a service-oriented attitude.

Salary development over time

The salary for a Kyrkvaktmästare has shown steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,300 SEK per month, which increased to 31 000 SEK in 2023 and reached 32 400 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to approximately 7% salary increase over three years. This positive trend can partly be explained by general wage adjustments in the public sector as well as increased complexity and responsibility in the role, especially regarding technical equipment and work environment requirements. Despite the demand for the profession being considered unchanged nationally, some regions have chosen to raise salaries to retain experienced staff and meet increased competence requirements.

Kyrkvaktmästare salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 32 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 22,600 SEK/month (female, private sector worker)
• Highest salary: 38,800 SEK/month (male, private sector worker, researcher)
• Hourly wage (average): 195 SEK/hour
• Women earn: 31 900 SEK/month (98% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 32 500 SEK/month
• Regional differences: No complete data available, but some variations may occur depending on the size and economy of the parish.

Education and qualifications

To work as a Kyrkvaktmästare, a high school education is usually required, preferably with a focus on property management, gardening, or technology. Practical experience is highly valued, and many employers view previous work in service roles or similar environments positively. Some training is often provided locally at the workplace, and there are opportunities to supplement with courses in work environment, machinery handling, or safety.

• High school education: Preferably with a focus on property, technology, or gardening (3 years)
• Internship: On-the-job internships are common and provide valuable experience
• Courses/certificates: Machinery operation, work environment training, and first aid are meritorious
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition and social skills are in demand
• Experience: Previous work in service, property maintenance, or green areas is an advantage

Common benefits and compensations

Kyrkvaktmästare are often covered by collective agreements, which include access to occupational pension, extra vacation days, and wellness allowances. Many employers also provide work clothing, opportunities for skills development, and sometimes subsidized lunches or employee discounts. Overtime pay is often provided for work outside regular hours, such as during holidays or funerals.

Challenges and competition

The competition for positions as Kyrkvaktmästare is currently low at the national level, with an oversupply of applicants relative to available jobs. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts for property caretakers, the job market is expected to remain stable with limited opportunities for new hires over the next five years. Challenges in the profession often include physically demanding tasks, irregular working hours, and the need for broad skills in both technology and customer service. Changes in the Swedish Church’s organization and a declining membership may also affect the number of available positions in the future.

Tips for those who want to become Kyrkvaktmästare

To succeed as a Kyrkvaktmästare, it is good to be thorough and have a genuine interest in both people and practical work. Service skills facilitate interactions with congregation members and visitors, while technical curiosity makes it easier to handle church equipment and properties. Flexibility is important since tasks can quickly shift between indoor and outdoor environments, and good physical condition helps manage sometimes heavy chores. Being proactive is an advantage when it comes to solving problems independently. Lastly, a respectful attitude towards church traditions and ceremonies contributes to a safe and welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.

Key facts about Kyrkvaktmästare

• Occupational group: Property caretaker
• Education level: High school or equivalent experience
• Work environment: Alternates between outdoor work and work inside church buildings
• Work form: Usually full-time, sometimes irregular hours
• Demand: Limited job opportunities, oversupply of applicants

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience as a Kyrkvaktmästare, there may be opportunities to advance to leadership roles such as supervisor of the caretaker team or to further education as a property manager. Some choose to specialize in gardening or technical maintenance, broadening their employment options. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast for property caretakers, the outlook remains unchanged over five years, with a surplus of workforce nationwide. Despite this, there is a continuous need for dedicated and knowledgeable staff, especially in larger parishes and upon retirements. Currently, there are 481 job openings in the property caretaker field, indicating that opportunities may vary regionally and depending on the size and economy of the parish.

Frequently asked questions about Kyrkvaktmästare

• What does a Kyrkvaktmästare earn?
  - The average salary is 32 400 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and region.
• Are there significant salary differences between men and women?
  - Women earn on average 98% of men's salaries, which corresponds to 31 900 SEK compared to men's 32 500 SEK.
• What education is required to become a Kyrkvaktmästare?
  - High school education in property, technology, or gardening is most common, but relevant work experience also counts.
• What is the job market like for Kyrkvaktmästare?
  - The job market is stable but with limited opportunities for new employment and a surplus of applicants nationally.
• What are the duties of a Kyrkvaktmästare?
  - Maintenance of churches and cemeteries, property upkeep, service during religious ceremonies, and contact with visitors.
• Are there opportunities for further education?
  - Yes, many employers offer skills development in technology, safety, and gardening.
• What is the lowest and highest salary for a Kyrkvaktmästare?
  - The lowest salary is 22,600 SEK and the highest is 38,800 SEK depending on experience, education, and employer.