- Salary statistics
- Scuba divers
Scuba divers
38 412 - 38 909 kr / month
Bygg & anläggning
Salary progression Scuba divers
What does a bomb disposal diver do? – Tasks and work environment
A bomb disposal diver primarily works within the Swedish Armed Forces or specialized civilian units, identifying, neutralizing, and removing dangerous objects underwater, such as mines, ammunition, or other explosives. Tasks also include inspections, repairs, and maintenance of underwater installations, as well as part-time assignments during accidents or rescue operations. The work environment is physically demanding, often under stressful conditions with varying visibility, temperature, and weather. Safety procedures are strict, and teamwork is crucial to minimize risks.
Salary development over time
The salary for bomb disposal divers has shown a steady but slow increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 38,434 SEK per month, which increased slightly to 38 747 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has risen further to 38 909 SEK per month. Overall, this represents an increase of about 1.2 % over the period. The modest growth can be explained by relatively stable demand for the profession, combined with many positions being publicly funded with fixed salary structures. The market for bomb disposal divers is mainly influenced by defense budgets and the need for qualified underwater work, rather than private sector or broader economic fluctuations.
Bomb disposal diver salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 38 909 SEK/month
- Lowest/Highest salary: Data unavailable for current period
- Hourly wage: 234 SEK/hour
- Gender differences: No specific data available
- Regional differences: Limited data; larger labor markets in coastal regions and major cities
Education and qualifications
To work as a bomb disposal diver, specialized training is required, usually within the Swedish Armed Forces, focusing on both diving and handling explosive objects underwater. The training is both theoretical and practical and demands high physical and mental capacity. In addition to basic diving certification, specific tests and prior knowledge are often required.
- Formal education: Bomb disposal diver training via the Swedish Armed Forces, approximately 1 year
- Certifications: Diving certificates and EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) training
- Practical experience: Field service and exercises during training
- Prerequisites: Approved conscription, swimming skills, and medical tests
- Tips: Strong swimming skills and good physical condition are recommended
Bomb disposal divers often train together in small, cohesive teams where trust and communication are essential – a misstep can have serious consequences underwater. It is one of the few professions where physical ability and psychological resilience are tested as rigorously as technical skills.
Common benefits and compensations
Bomb disposal divers often have access to benefits such as occupational pension, paid further education, wellness allowances, and additional insurance coverage. Compensation for unsocial hours and risk-related assignments may apply, especially within the Swedish Armed Forces. Access to modern equipment and regular health check-ups are standard.
Competition and challenges
The profession of bomb disposal diver is niche, and competition for training places is fierce, especially within the Swedish Armed Forces where selection is strict. Few civilian employers offer similar roles, making the majority of professionals work within the public sector. Physical and mental demands are significant, as are ongoing training and medical tests. The limited number of positions means competition for permanent employment is high, particularly in urban areas and at major naval bases.
Tips for aspiring bomb disposal divers
To succeed as a bomb disposal diver, it is beneficial to combine endurance and stress resilience with technical curiosity. The first step is to train swimming skills and physical fitness, as physical tests are demanding. Being precise and methodical is important when handling explosives and advanced equipment. Good teamwork and communication facilitate work in teams, while self-discipline helps to strictly follow safety procedures. Problem-solving skills and the ability to quickly adapt to changing underwater conditions are also advantageous. Continuing education and staying updated on new techniques and safety standards are crucial for long-term success.
Key facts about bomb disposal divers
- Average salary: 38 909 SEK/month
- Hourly wage: 234 SEK/hour
- Education: Bomb disposal diver training via the Swedish Armed Forces (approx. 1 year)
- Work environment: Physically demanding, often underwater and in risky environments
- Job openings: 379 advertised positions within the profession
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a bomb disposal diver, opportunities exist to advance to leadership, instructor, or specialist roles in underwater demolition. Some choose to further their education in technical diving or underwater inspection and can work internationally or within civilian rescue services. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the demand for qualified bomb disposal divers remains stable, with good prospects for continued employment, especially within the military and large infrastructure projects along the coast. The forecast indicates that the need for specialist underwater work skills will stay high in the coming years.
Frequently asked questions about bomb disposal divers
- What is the average salary of a bomb disposal diver?
- The average salary is 38 909 SEK per month. - How do you become a bomb disposal diver?
- By completing the Swedish Armed Forces' bomb disposal diver training and meeting the admission requirements. - What are the job duties of a bomb disposal diver?
- To search for, identify, and neutralize dangerous objects underwater, as well as conduct inspections and rescue missions. - Are there many job openings for bomb disposal divers?
- Yes, there are approximately 379 advertised positions within the profession according to current statistics. - What personal qualities are important for a bomb disposal diver?
- Endurance, stress resilience, precision, and teamwork skills are essential. - What are the future prospects for bomb disposal divers?
- The outlook is stable with continued demand, especially within the Swedish Armed Forces and infrastructure projects.
Salary distributed by age and sector
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 Scuba divers has the SSYK code 7115, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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