How much does a Light sailor make

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Light sailor

36 100 kr

Sailors and deckhands etc.

31 800 - 42 100 kr / month

Women earn 92% of what men do.

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What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Light sailor

Average salary 36 100 kr
Males 36 400 kr
Females 33 500 kr
2 Likes 0 Comments 1 Vacant jobs ->

What does an Able Seaman do? – Tasks and Work Environment

An Able Seaman primarily works aboard ships where duties include deck service and maintenance. Common tasks involve participating in loading and unloading, equipment care, simple repairs, and assisting officers and more experienced sailors with daily routines. The work is often in shifts, and the environment can vary, sometimes on open sea and sometimes in port. Safety procedures are a central part of the daily routine, and the work environment involves both physical tasks and requirements for good teamwork.

Salary development over time

The salary for an Able Seaman has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 34,000 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 34 900 SEK in 2023. The latest data from 2024 shows that the average salary is now 36 100 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 6.2% during the period. The trend indicates continued positive development, likely driven by increased demand for maritime personnel and a greater focus on safety and certifications. Inflation and changes in collective agreements have also influenced salary setting within the profession.

Able Seaman salary – comprehensive overview

  • Average salary: 36 100 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 31,800 SEK/month
  • Highest salary: 42,100 SEK/month
  • Hourly wage: 217 SEK
  • Men's average salary: 36 400 SEK/month
  • Women's average salary: 33,500 SEK/month
  • Gender pay gap: Women earn 92% of what men do
  • Regional differences: Data unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as an Able Seaman, a high school maritime education is normally required, followed by practical experience and certain certifications. An approved maritime education is fundamental, and thereafter sea time and completed safety courses according to international maritime regulations are necessary. Practical experience and the ability to collaborate are crucial, and advancement through hierarchy aboard ships is common.

  • High school maritime education: 3 years
  • Certificates for Able Seaman: STCW courses (international standard)
  • Practical experience: Minimum 12 months of sea service required
  • Prerequisites: Approved health examination and swimming skills
  • Recommended: Additional courses in safety and first aid

Many Able Seamen get early opportunities to travel to places they would otherwise never visit, contributing to a unique work experience. The international crew aboard makes the profession suitable for those curious about other cultures and who enjoy variety. For those who are flexible and social, this can become a lifestyle rather than just a job.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Able Seamen are often covered by collective agreements that provide access to allowances for unsociable hours, per diems for longer trips, and pension contributions. Many employers also offer free meals and accommodation onboard, as well as insurance and opportunities for further training. Some shipping companies also provide bonuses for long periods of service and extra leave during extended sea voyages.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as an Able Seaman can vary depending on economic conditions and shipping companies' needs. Despite there being 412 job openings, reports indicate limited data for labor market forecasts. Challenges in the profession include long periods away from home, shift work, and sometimes harsh weather conditions. Physical demands and safety routines are always present, and quick adaptation to new crews and vessel types is necessary. Technological changes in shipping also require ongoing skill development.

Tips for those who want to become an Able Seaman

To succeed as an Able Seaman, flexibility and the ability to adapt to rapid changes onboard are beneficial. Good teamwork skills facilitate cooperation with colleagues from diverse backgrounds, and physical endurance makes daily routines easier when the pace is high. Attention to safety routines is crucial, and an interest in technology and maintenance can be advantageous for repairs and troubleshooting. Initiative is appreciated by officers and can lead to more responsibilities. Social and curious individuals often get the most out of the international crew and the many voyages. Finally, patience is important, as long working periods require endurance and the ability to handle solitude.

Key facts about Able Seaman

  • Educational level: High school maritime education + certifications
  • Work environment: Onboard ships, often in shifts
  • Job openings in Sweden: 412 (within the profession)
  • Typical employment: Permanent or seasonal contracts
  • Special requirements: Approved health examination and certifications

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years of experience as an Able Seaman, there are opportunities to advance to Able Seaman with greater responsibilities, such as mate or engineer, provided further education and additional certifications are obtained. Some choose to specialize in specific vessel types or tasks like maintenance, navigation, or safety. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, no specific forecast exists for Able Seaman, but the profession is part of the broader group of sailors and deckhands, where the job market is considered relatively stable. Those willing to further educate themselves and be flexible have good chances for continued development in maritime careers.

Frequently asked questions about Able Seaman

  • What does an Able Seaman earn?
    - The average salary for an Able Seaman is 36 100 SEK per month.
  • How to become an Able Seaman?
    - A high school maritime education, certification, and at least 12 months of practical experience are required.
  • Are there salary differences between men and women?
    - Yes, women earn on average 92% of what men do in the profession.
  • What are the job duties of an Able Seaman?
    - Maintenance, deck duties, safety work, and assistance with loading/unloading.
  • What is the highest salary for an Able Seaman?
    - The highest salary is 42,100 SEK and belongs to a woman with postgraduate education.
  • What are the future prospects?
    - No forecasts are available, but currently there are 412 job openings in the profession.
  • What personal qualities are important?
    - Flexibility, teamwork skills, accuracy, and physical endurance are key.

Richard Andersson

Richard Andersson - 2025-07-12 16:48:47

Occupation
Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Light sailor is 42100 kr. This salary belongs to a woman working in the Privately employed workers with a post-secondary education, 3 years or more. The highest salary for a man in this profession is 41800 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Light sailor is 31800 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Privately employed officials. The lowest salary for a woman in this profession is 33500 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
18-24 26700 kr 29900 kr
25-34 32700 kr 34300 kr
35-44 37300 kr 38400 kr
45-54 35600 kr 37900 kr
55-64 37500 kr 39000 kr
Snitt 92% 34100 kr 36100 kr
* Empty columns indicate that the statistical data was insufficient to allow for a statistically significant conclusion.
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession Light sailor has the SSYK code 8350, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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