Mässman

What does a messman do? – Tasks and work environment

A messman primarily works in restaurant and service environments, often responsible for food service, order, service quality, and creating a pleasant atmosphere in mess halls, dining rooms, or similar settings. The profession involves meeting guests and colleagues daily, handling orders, setting tables, keeping clean, and sometimes managing basic finances and stock. The work environment is characterized by a high pace, varied working hours, and a social climate where service skills and attention to detail are central. Work is often team-based, requiring cooperation and flexibility to meet guests' needs and operational demands.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for a messman has shown a stable and positive trend. In 2022, the average salary was 27,800 SEK per month, increasing to 29 000 SEK in 2023 and further to 29 700 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total salary increase of approximately 6.8% over the period, with the largest increase between 2022 and 2023. The salary development reflects a generally increased demand for service staff and some adjustment for inflation and higher living costs. The market's need for qualified and service-oriented personnel, combined with a greater focus on working conditions within the restaurant and large-scale catering sectors, has likely contributed to this positive trend.

Messman salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 29 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 26,900 SEK (female, pre-high school education)
• Highest salary: 33,400 SEK (female, high school education, up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage (average): 178 SEK
• Gender differences: Men earn 31 000 SEK, women 29 200 SEK (women earn 94% of men's salaries)
• Regional differences: Salary variations may occur depending on location and employer

Education and qualifications

To work as a messman, a high school education in hotel and restaurant management or equivalent experience in the industry is usually required. Practical experience is highly valued, and many employers prefer candidates who have completed internships or trainee programs. Some workplaces offer internal training, while others may require specific courses in food handling or service. Social skills, attention to detail, and the ability to handle stress are important qualifications for success in the role.

• High school education: Hotel and Restaurant program, 3 years
• Internship/trainee: Often included during education
• Certifications: Courses in food hygiene and safety may be required
• Prerequisites: No higher education required, but experience is advantageous
• Tips for choosing: Combine education with part-time work or internships for the best start

Common benefits and compensations

For messmen, it is common to be offered benefits such as overtime pay for evening and weekend work, staff meals, and opportunities for training in service and leadership. In some cases, wellness allowances and staff discounts at restaurants or hotels may also be provided. Larger organizations sometimes offer collective agreement-based additions such as extra vacation days or pension contributions.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as a messman varies depending on region and season, but overall the job market remains relatively stable due to the constant demand for service staff. Challenges in the profession include physically demanding tasks, irregular hours, and the need to handle stressful situations while maintaining service quality. To stand out, initiative, flexibility, and a clear customer focus are important. Digitalization and automation in the restaurant industry may also affect job tasks over time, requiring adaptability and a willingness to develop new skills.

Tips for those who want to become a messman

To succeed as a messman, it is good to have a genuine interest in service and enjoy social environments. Being attentive and resilient makes it easier to handle rush hours and many guests simultaneously, while a positive attitude facilitates teamwork. Taking initiative, such as suggesting improvements or taking responsibility for tasks, demonstrates engagement and can lead to more opportunities. Flexibility is important since working hours often vary and the pace can change quickly. Gaining experience through extra work or internships provides insight into the work environment and strengthens professional skills. Attention to detail, both regarding hygiene and customer service, is appreciated by employers and guests alike. Finally, continuously developing language skills is advantageous, especially in international environments where guests may come from around the world.

Key facts about a messman

• Education level: High school education in hotel and restaurant management
• Work environment: Restaurants, ships, hotels, and large dining halls
• Typical work pattern: Shift work, often evenings and weekends
• Demand: About 123 available jobs in the profession
• Special skills: Service, food handling, stress management

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a messman, opportunities to advance to roles such as head waiter, restaurant manager, or supervisor in larger service environments are available. Experience can also open doors to specialized roles within events, conferences, or hotel industries. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, there is no specific forecast for messmen as a profession, but the demand for service staff remains stable within hotels, restaurants, and large-scale catering. With the right skills and further education, roles such as training manager or workplace safety officer may also become accessible. Those interested in international work can also seek positions on cruise ships or abroad, where Swedish experience is often valued.

Frequently asked questions about a messman

• What does a messman earn?
  - A messman has an average salary of 29 700 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, education, and employer.
• What education is required to become a messman?
  - A high school education in hotel and restaurant management is recommended, but experience in the industry is often equally valuable.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn an average of 31 000 SEK, while women earn 29 200 SEK, which means women earn approximately 94% of men's salaries.
• What are the most common workplaces for a messman?
  - Messmen mainly work in restaurants, hotels, ships, and larger conference centers.
• What are the future prospects for a messman?
  - There are about 123 available jobs in the profession, and demand is relatively stable, although no precise forecast exists according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
• What does the job involve practically?
  - Tasks include serving, maintaining order, creating a pleasant environment, and sometimes managing basic finances or inventory in cafeterias and restaurants.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a messman?
  - The highest salary is 33,400 SEK (female, high school education, up to 2 years), and the lowest is 26,900 SEK (female, pre-high school education).