Image that illustrates Engine attendants, ships

Engine attendants, ships

39 400 kr

Maintenance mechanics and machine repairers

25 600 - 41 000 kr / month

Women earn 98% of what men do.

Installation & drift/underhåll

What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Engine attendants, ships

Average salary 39 400 kr
Males 39 500 kr
Females 38 500 kr

What does a motorskötare on ships do? – Tasks and work environment

A motorskötare on ships has the important responsibility of monitoring, operating, and maintaining the vessel's mechanical systems. Tasks include daily inspections of engines and auxiliary systems, troubleshooting, and repairing machinery. The motorskötare works closely with the crew in the engine room to ensure everything functions smoothly for a safe and efficient voyage. Work often involves shift work and periods at sea, requiring high technical competence and the ability to work under varying conditions.

Salary development over time

The salary for motorskötare on ships has shown stable and positive growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,500 SEK per month, increasing to 37 900 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 39 400 SEK, representing an overall increase of approximately 8% over three years. This salary trend reflects a continued demand for technical skills in maritime work and an increased focus on maintenance and safety onboard. The trend indicates that the profession is becoming more valued, likely due to rising requirements for technical knowledge and responsibility in an increasingly automated environment.

Motorskötare, fartyg salary – comprehensive overview

  • Average salary: 39 400 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 25,600 SEK/month
  • Highest salary: 41,000 SEK/month
  • Hourly wage (average): 237 SEK
  • Men (average): 39 500 SEK/month
  • Women (average): 38 500 SEK/month
  • Women as percentage of men: 98%
  • Regional differences: No clear data available

Education and qualifications

To work as a motorskötare on ships, a secondary education with a maritime or technical focus is usually required, along with additional vocational training in machinery or engine technology. Several shipping companies and employers also require certifications and some practical experience from a maritime environment. Further education and licenses may be needed depending on the type of vessel and duties.

  • Secondary education: Maritime program or technical track (3 years)
  • Post-secondary education: Vocational college or equivalent, often 1–2 years
  • Certifications: Engine officer class VIII or equivalent
  • Practical training: Often mandatory sea practice/internship
  • Prerequisites: Good technical understanding and basic safety training

Motorskötare on ships often have the opportunity to work in international crews and visit ports around the world, providing a unique insight into different cultures and work environments. Many describe a strong camaraderie onboard as one of the profession’s biggest advantages. The practical experience gained at sea is highly valued throughout the maritime industry.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Motorskötare on ships often have access to benefits such as free meals and accommodation during service at sea, per diems, and compensation for unsociable hours. Some employers also offer pension contributions, wellness allowances, and opportunities for further training. Longer leave periods between shifts are also common, allowing good recovery time.

Competition and challenges

The profession as a motorskötare on ships is characterized by a balanced labor market with relatively steady demand and supply. Technological development and automation in maritime work mean roles are evolving, and requirements for technical skills are gradually increasing. The work environment can be physically and mentally demanding, especially during long periods at sea. Competition for the most attractive positions, especially on passenger and specialized vessels, is increasing. Adaptability and ongoing training are important for meeting future challenges.

Tips for aspiring motorskötare on ships

To succeed as a motorskötare on ships, it’s good to be technically curious and eager to develop your skills, as technology is constantly changing. A solution-oriented attitude helps with troubleshooting and quick repairs onboard. Good teamwork skills are essential since the work is collaborative and safety is paramount. Physical endurance and stress resilience are also important, especially during long periods at sea. Being meticulous and responsible helps maintain high safety standards and prevent problems. It’s recommended to seek internships early to gain insight into the profession and build a network in the industry. Strong communication skills facilitate daily work and collaboration with colleagues from different cultures.

Key facts about Motorskötare, fartyg

  • Education level: Secondary education + vocational college/certification
  • Work environment: Onboard ships, often in shifts and periods at sea
  • Demand: Moderate, approximately 481 available jobs in the profession
  • Common employment types: Permanent or fixed-term with shift work
  • Special skills: Machinery and engine technology, safety procedures

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a motorskötare on ships, opportunities exist to advance to a motorman or technical supervisor onboard, often after additional training and certification. The employment outlook for maintenance mechanics and machine repairers is assessed as moderate, with demand expected to remain stable over the next five years. Technological development and automation may influence the role, but practical skills remain crucial. There are also pathways to land-based operations management or specialized roles within shipping companies and shipyards. International experience can enhance chances of employment on larger fleets and specialized vessels.

Frequently asked questions about Motorskötare, fartyg

  • What does a Motorskötare, fartyg earn?
    - The average salary is 39 400 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience and sector.
  • How does one become a motorskötare on ships?
    - The most common route is maritime secondary education, followed by vocational college and certifications.
  • Are there salary differences between men and women?
    - Yes, women earn on average 98% of men's salaries.
  • What are the biggest challenges in the profession?
    - Long periods at sea, technological development, and requirements for continuous skills development.
  • What is the state of the job market?
    - The job market is considered balanced with approximately 481 available jobs in the profession.
  • What education is needed to get a job?
    - At least secondary education with a maritime focus and certification for engine officer class VIII.
  • What are the highest and lowest salaries for a Motorskötare, fartyg?
    - The highest salary is 41,000 SEK and the lowest is 25,600 SEK per month.

Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Engine attendants, ships is 41000 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Privately employed officials with a post-secondary education, 3 years or more. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 40300 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Engine attendants, ships is 25600 kr. This salary belongs to a woman also working in the Municipal sector. The lowest salary for a man in this profession is 33000 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
18-24 101% 32600 kr 35200 kr
25-34 96% 36000 kr 38800 kr
35-44 102% 37500 kr 40100 kr
45-54 97% 38200 kr 40400 kr
55-64 98% 38000 kr 39800 kr
65-68 36800 kr 37800 kr
Snitt 98% 37100 kr 39400 kr
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 Engine attendants, ships has the SSYK code 7233, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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