Renhållningsarbetare

What does a waste management worker do? – Tasks and work environment

A waste management worker is responsible for collecting, transporting, and sometimes sorting waste and recycling materials from households, businesses, and public places. Tasks include handling trash bins, emptying containers, operating machinery, and in some cases managing hazardous waste. The environment is often outdoors, and physical endurance requirements are high, especially during heavy lifting and working in varying weather conditions. Safety and ergonomics are central, as well as the ability to collaborate in teams and follow routines to ensure efficient waste handling.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, waste management workers have seen steady salary increases. In 2022, the average salary was 30,100 SEK per month, which increased to 32 100 SEK in 2023 and further to 32 700 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 8.6% over three years. This development reflects both increased demand for labor in the profession and the general wage adjustments in the labor market. The salary increase has been slightly higher than inflation, indicating a real improvement in earnings. Growing demands for environmental awareness and efficient waste management have also contributed to raising the profession's status and wages.

Waste management worker salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 32 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,700 SEK/month (female, private sector worker, less than 9 years of education)
• Highest salary: 35,000 SEK/month (female, public sector, more than 3 years post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 196 SEK/hour
• Men's average salary: 32 800 SEK/month (highest: 34,000 SEK, lowest: 28,700 SEK)
• Women's average salary: 31 900 SEK/month (highest: 35,000 SEK, lowest: 27,700 SEK)
• Women earn: 97% of what men do

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a waste management worker generally requires no formal higher education, but a high school diploma with a focus on transportation, vehicles, or similar is often advantageous. Many employers offer internal training and introductory programs for new hires. A C driver's license (for heavy trucks) is often a requirement, especially for work involving waste collection or recycling vehicles. Experience from similar professions or industries can be an advantage, and sometimes certifications for handling hazardous waste are requested.

• High school education: Recommended: Transportation and logistics programs
• Driver's license: C (heavy truck) often required
• Internal training: Common upon employment
• Certification: May be required for hazardous waste handling
• Internship: Meritorious with some employers

Common benefits and compensations

Waste management workers are often offered benefits such as overtime pay for work during unsociable hours, wellness allowances, and sometimes work clothing and protective equipment. Other common compensations include extra pay for working on weekends, flexible working hours, and access to occupational health services. Many employers also provide opportunities for further training and skill development within the profession.

Challenges and competition

The profession generally offers good employment opportunities, but is characterized by a paradoxical labor market with both recruitment difficulties and high turnover. There are many vacant jobs (currently 123 nationwide), but working conditions – such as early mornings, heavy lifting, and outdoor work in all weather – cause some to leave the profession. At the same time, demand remains stable and is expected to stay unchanged over the next five years according to the Employment Service. Competition for more attractive positions in larger cities may be somewhat higher, but overall there is high demand for labor across the country.

Tips for those wanting to become a waste management worker

To succeed as a waste management worker, it is good to have good physical fitness and endurance, as the work is often physically demanding and performed outdoors in various weather conditions. Being punctual and reliable is important, as schedules are tight and the team depends on everyone being on time. Flexibility and stress resilience are valued qualities, especially in unexpected situations or when the pace increases. It is also advantageous to be service-minded and able to interact politely with the public, as contact with the public is sometimes part of the job. Attention to detail and safety awareness are crucial to avoid accidents and follow routines. Teamwork skills are important, as much of the work is done in teams, and good communication facilitates the work for everyone involved.

Key facts about waste management workers

• Average salary: 32 700 SEK/month
• Salary range: 27,700–35,000 SEK/month
• Educational requirements: High school diploma, C driver's license often necessary
• Work environment: Physically demanding, outdoor, often in teams
• Demand: Great opportunities for work nationwide

Career paths and future prospects

After some years of experience, waste management workers can advance to roles such as supervisor, team leader, or specialize in areas like hazardous waste, recycling technology, or logistics planning. Further education in environmental and waste management can open doors to administrative roles or inspector positions. According to the Employment Service's forecast, job opportunities are expected to remain good, with stable demand over the next five years. The profession has a high turnover rate, so new positions often become available. For those seeking long-term stability and security, it is a profession with a stable labor market and good opportunities for development.

Frequently asked questions about waste management workers

• What does a waste management worker earn?
  - A waste management worker has an average salary of 32 700 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 31 900 SEK and men 32 800 SEK per month, which means women earn 97% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a waste management worker?
  - High school education and a C driver's license for heavy trucks are often required, along with introductory training at the workplace.
• What does the job market look like for waste management workers?
  - The job market is very good with great opportunities for employment and stable demand nationwide.
• What is the highest salary for a waste management worker?
  - The highest reported salary is 35,000 SEK per month, applicable to a woman in the public sector with post-secondary education.
• What is the hourly wage for a waste management worker?
  - The hourly wage for a part-time waste management worker is on average 196 SEK.
• What personal qualities are important in the profession?
  - Good physical condition, punctuality, teamwork skills, and safety awareness are important qualities for success as a waste management worker.