Kitchenette assistant

What does a pentrybiträde do? – Tasks and work environment

A pentrybiträde primarily works in large kitchens, restaurants, cafes, and other environments where simple food preparation and service occur. Tasks include preparing sandwiches, salads, and simple dishes, dishwashing, cleaning kitchen areas, restocking supplies, and handling waste and recycling. Pentrybiträden often support chefs and kitchen staff with preparations for lunch and dinner services, which requires both speed and accuracy. The work environment is often lively and can involve heavy lifting, working in heat, and contact with colleagues and guests.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for pentrybiträden has shown a clear positive trend. In 2022, the average salary was 25,200 SEK per month, increasing to 26 600 in 2023. In the latest year, 2024, the average salary has risen further to 27 900. This represents a total increase of approximately 11% over three years. This wage increase reflects a generally higher demand for labor in the restaurant and kitchen support professions, with many employers reporting difficulties in finding staff. Inflation and collective bargaining negotiations also influence wage development in the sector, contributing to a stable and gradual salary improvement for the profession.

Pentrybiträde salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 27 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 24,800 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 33,700 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 168 SEK
• Women earn: 27 600 SEK (98% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 28 300 SEK
• Regional differences: Some variation depending on city and demand, but generally small salary differences across the country.

Education and qualifications

To work as a pentrybiträde, there are usually no formal educational requirements, although experience from restaurants or large kitchens is advantageous. Many learn on the job through practical work, with an introduction often provided on-site. For those wishing to strengthen their prospects, a short course in restaurant or food handling can be beneficial. Employers particularly value accuracy, teamwork, and willingness to learn new tasks.

• Formal education: None required, but a high school diploma in restaurant and food handling is advantageous
• Certifications/courses: Food hygiene and safety (often offered internally)
• Internship: Commonly, an on-site introduction is provided
• Prerequisites: No formal requirements, but good physical condition and teamwork skills are recommended
• Tips for choosing: Additional courses in large kitchens and hygiene can increase employability

Common benefits and compensations

Pentrybiträden are usually covered by collective agreements that provide holiday pay, evening and holiday overtime pay, and occupational pension. Other common benefits include staff discounts on food, work clothes, and sometimes subsidized wellness activities. Some employers also offer training in food hygiene and opportunities for further education within kitchen work.

Competition and challenges

The market for pentrybiträden is characterized by a paradoxical situation where many work part-time, while employers report recruitment difficulties. The demand for labor in the profession is high, but competition for full-time positions can be tough, especially in larger cities. Many jobs are temporary or seasonal, requiring flexibility. The work environment can sometimes be stressful with a high tempo and physically demanding tasks. Success requires endurance and good teamwork skills.

Tips for those who want to become a pentrybiträde

To succeed as a pentrybiträde, it is good to be flexible and comfortable with varied tasks, as the workday often involves quick shifts between different duties. Precision is important, especially when handling food and hygiene, to reduce mistakes and build trust with employers. Being service-minded and able to collaborate effectively with colleagues facilitates working in an environment where many work together under time pressure. Showing initiative and willingness to learn new tasks can lead to more responsibilities. Good physical endurance helps, as the work often involves heavy lifting and long hours on your feet. Demonstrating engagement and reliability increases the chances of permanent employment and can lead to advancement within the restaurant industry.

Key facts about Pentrybiträde

• Salary range: 24,800–33,700 SEK/month
• Average salary: 27 900 SEK/month
• Educational requirements: None formal, but experience is advantageous
• Common work form: Part-time, temporary, and full-time work available
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment according to the Employment Service

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years of experience as a pentrybiträde, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as kitchen assistant, cold kitchen chef, or even further training as a chef. Those showing engagement and initiative are often offered internal training and skill-enhancing courses. According to the Employment Service's forecast, demand for pentrybiträden and similar professions is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with good chances of employment. However, the job market is characterized by many part-time positions and some competition for permanent roles. Currently, there are 123 job openings across the country, indicating good chances for those flexible and willing to work different hours.

Frequently asked questions about Pentrybiträde

• What does a pentrybiträde earn?
  - A pentrybiträde has an average salary of 27 900 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and workplace.
• What education is required to become a pentrybiträde?
  - No formal requirements, but experience from restaurant or kitchen work is advantageous.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn on average 28 300 SEK and women 27 600 SEK, which means women earn 98% of men's salaries.
• What are the future prospects for pentrybiträden?
  - According to the Employment Service, job opportunities are plentiful and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What tasks does a pentrybiträde perform?
  - Tasks include simple food preparation, dishwashing, cleaning, and restocking in kitchens and service environments.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a pentrybiträde?
  - The highest salary is 33,700 SEK and the lowest is 24,800 SEK, depending on experience, sector, and education level.
• What is the work environment like for pentrybiträden?
  - The work environment is often fast-paced and physically demanding, with lots of standing and heavy lifting.