Cleaners, machines

What does a machine cleaner do? – Tasks and work environment

A machine cleaner primarily works with cleaning, maintaining, and sometimes dismantling various types of industrial machines and production equipment. Tasks often include thorough cleaning of machine parts, handling cleaning agents and tools, and checking that machines operate correctly after cleaning. The work environment is characterized by work in industrial settings where safety and precision are required. Physical work is common, and tasks can be monotonous but demand great attention to detail and machine safety.

Wage development over time

The profession has experienced steady wage increases in recent years. In 2022, the average salary for a machine cleaner was 28,200 SEK per month. During 2023, it increased to 30 300 SEK, representing an increase of about 7.4%. In 2024, the wage trend continued upward to 31 400 SEK, a further increase of 3.6% compared to the previous year. This positive trend can be linked to increased demand for specialized industrial labor, changes in collective bargaining agreements, and inflation's impact on wages. Despite some oversupply on the labor market, wage development has remained stable, indicating that employers continue to see the need to attract and retain skilled workers in the field.

Machine cleaner wages – complete overview

• Average salary: 31 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,100 SEK/month (female, regional sector, high school education <2 years)
• Highest salary: 35,800 SEK/month (male, public sector, high school education 3 years)
• Hourly wage: 189 SEK
• Women earn: 30 500 SEK/month (95% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 31 900 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salary levels vary slightly between regions, with somewhat higher wages in larger industrial areas.

Education and qualifications

To work as a machine cleaner, usually no higher formal education is required, but employers prefer candidates who have completed high school, preferably with a focus on industry, technology, or similar fields. Practical experience in the industry is often advantageous and can sometimes outweigh formal education. Introductory training and internal onboarding are common within the profession.

• High school education: Industrial, technical, or workshop programs, 2–3 years
• Internal training: Practical onboarding at the workplace is common
• Certifications: Specific hygiene or safety training may be required in certain industries
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition and attention to detail are important qualities
• Tips: Experience in machine maintenance and safety procedures is advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Machine cleaners are often covered by collective agreements that provide access to occupational pensions, insurance, and overtime allowances for work during inconvenient hours. Many employers also offer work clothing, wellness allowances, and sometimes opportunities for further training or internal courses. Compensation for overtime and shift work is common, especially in larger industrial companies.

Competition and challenges

The competition within the profession is relatively high due to an oversupply of labor in the field. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, job opportunities for machine cleaners are limited nationwide, and the recruitment situation is characterized by an excess of applicants. Over the next five years, demand is expected to remain unchanged, meaning competition for available positions will likely persist. Challenges may also include physically demanding tasks, monotonous work, and the need for precision to ensure safety in production.

Tips for those who want to become a machine cleaner

To succeed as a machine cleaner, it is good to be meticulous and have an eye for detail, as machine cleaning requires precision and safety awareness. Building good physical endurance is recommended since tasks are often physically demanding and may involve repetitive movements over longer periods. A positive attitude and the ability to collaborate with colleagues are valuable qualities, especially in larger production environments where teamwork is central. Showing interest in technology and machinery can create opportunities to learn more and eventually take on more responsibilities or advance to more senior roles. Being flexible and willing to work various hours, including shifts, increases chances of employment. Finally, being solution-oriented and able to handle unexpected situations quickly is an advantage in industrial environments.

Key facts about machine cleaners

• Average salary: 31 400 SEK/month
• Education level: High school education (industry/technology) recommended
• Typical work form: Shift work or daytime in industrial environments
• Demand: Limited job opportunities, oversupply of labor
• Gender salary difference: Women earn 95% of men's salary

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a machine cleaner can develop into more specialized roles within the industry, such as machine operator, maintenance technician, or supervisor. Opportunities for further training in operations, maintenance, or industrial safety can open doors to new career paths. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast for packers and other factory workers, job opportunities are limited, and competition for positions is high. However, in certain regions and industries, demand may increase depending on industry development. In total, there were 1,437 available jobs in the field at the last measurement, indicating some mobility in the labor market for those who are flexible.

Frequently asked questions about machine cleaners

• What is the average salary for a machine cleaner?
  - The average salary is 31 400 SEK per month.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a machine cleaner?
  - The highest salary is 35,800 SEK and the lowest is 30,100 SEK per month.
• What are the gender differences within the profession?
  - Women earn 30 500 SEK on average, which is 95% of men's salary (31 900 SEK).
• What education is required?
  - High school education with an industrial or technical focus is recommended, but internal training is common.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The labor market is characterized by oversupply and limited job opportunities according to national forecasts.
• What are the most common work environments?
  - Industrial environments with shift work and physically demanding tasks.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, slightly higher salaries may occur in larger industrial regions.