Sanitation workers

What does a sanitation worker do? – Tasks and work environment

Sanitation workers work with cleaning, sanitizing, and restoring premises, industries, and environments where strict hygiene standards are required or where accidents, damages, or hazards have occurred. Tasks include removing hazardous substances, cleaning after fires or water damage, and performing asbestos and mold remediation. Work is often on-site at the customer’s location and can include both emergency responses and planned maintenance. The work environment varies and may involve working in confined spaces, at heights, or in environments where protective equipment is necessary to minimize health and safety risks.

Salary development over time

The salary for sanitation workers has developed positively over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 29,700 SEK, increasing to 31 800 SEK in 2023 and further to 35 000 SEK in 2024. This represents an increase of approximately 18% over the period, which is significantly higher than the average for many other professions. The reasons for this trend may be linked to increased demand for sanitation services, especially in areas like asbestos removal and environmental protection, as well as a general shortage of qualified labor. The salary increase also reflects the safety and specialized skills required, making the profession more attractive to those seeking stability and development opportunities.

Sanitation worker salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 35 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,900 SEK/month (female, 3-year high school diploma)
• Highest salary: 35,600 SEK/month (male, regional sector, with up to 2 years of high school education)
• Hourly wage: 210 SEK/hour (based on 166 working hours/month)
• Gender differences: Men earn 35 500 SEK, women 32,000 SEK (women earn 90% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Highest salaries are found in the regional sector, with variation depending on region and sector

Education and qualifications

Most sanitation workers have a high school education in fields such as construction and civil engineering, but there are also opportunities to enter the profession through internal training programs offered by employers. For some specialized areas, such as asbestos or chemical remediation, specific certifications and additional courses are required. Practical experience and good physical condition are important for handling the physically demanding tasks and safety routines integral to the work.

• High school education: Construction and civil engineering program or equivalent (3 years)
• Certification: Special courses for asbestos, PCB, and chemical handling
• Internship: Often via internships or trainee programs with employers
• Prerequisites: Good physical health, basic Swedish skills, and safety awareness
• Online courses: Some employers offer digital introductory training

Common benefits and compensations

Sanitation workers are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, extra pay for unsociable hours, work clothing, and access to protective equipment and regular health checks. In some cases, bonuses may be available for work on particularly risky or urgent assignments, as well as opportunities for further training through the employer.

Challenges and competition

The profession as a sanitation worker is characterized by increased competition, driven by environmental regulations and stricter rules, which have boosted demand for qualified labor. At the same time, challenges include heavy lifting, working in hazardous environments, and sometimes irregular hours. Competition for the most attractive positions can be high, especially in metropolitan areas where salaries tend to be somewhat higher. To stand out, specialized skills and certifications are often necessary, which can also be a barrier for those looking to change direction or advance within the profession.

Tips for aspiring sanitation workers

To succeed as a sanitation worker, it is important to have a strong sense of responsibility and to follow safety regulations carefully, as the work often involves handling hazardous substances. Precision is crucial to ensure high quality in remediation projects and to prevent injuries and accidents. Flexibility is a valuable asset, as workdays can vary greatly depending on assignments and environments. Being proactive and having good problem-solving skills increase the chances of quickly finding solutions when conditions change. Teamwork skills are also important, since sanitation work is often performed in teams requiring clear communication. Finally, good physical endurance and stress tolerance are advantageous, as the job can be physically demanding and sometimes performed under time pressure.

Key facts about Sanitation Workers

• Educational level: High school education, supplemented with certifications
• Work environment: Varied, often on-site at customer locations and in hazardous environments
• Typical employment: Full-time or hourly employment
• Demand: 123 available jobs in the profession as per the latest measurement
• Special skills: Asbestos and chemical handling, environmental remediation

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years in the profession, sanitation workers can advance to supervisory roles, become specialists in areas such as asbestos or industrial cleaning, or further their education to become environmental technicians. There are also opportunities to work as instructors or trainers in occupational safety and health. According to employment agency forecasts, no precise assessment has been made for sanitation workers due to limited data, but increased environmental awareness and demand for remediation services suggest that demand will remain stable. Holding the right certifications and specialized skills often provides advantages in the job market, especially in larger cities.

Frequently asked questions about Sanitation Workers

• What does a Sanitation Worker earn?
  - A sanitation worker has an average monthly salary of 35 000 SEK, with an hourly wage of 210 SEK.
• What education is required to become a sanitation worker?
  - Most commonly, a high school diploma in construction and civil engineering, supplemented with certifications for specialized sanitation.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn on average 35 500 SEK while women earn 32,000 SEK, which corresponds to 90% of men's salaries.
• What is the work environment like for sanitation workers?
  - The work environment is varied and may involve working in hazardous environments, requiring protective gear and good physical condition.
• What career opportunities are available within the profession?
  - Opportunities include advancing to supervisor, specialist, or trainer roles within sanitation and environmental technology.
• How many job openings are there in the profession?
  - The latest data shows 123 available jobs in the sanitation worker sector and related fields.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Wellness allowances, extra pay for unsociable hours, access to protective gear, and regular health checks are typical benefits.