Remediation technician

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

A sanitation technician works with cleaning, restoring, and sanitizing environments exposed to contamination, damage, or hazardous substances. The work often involves handling asbestos, mold, chemicals, or post-fire and water damage. The role includes using specialized equipment and working according to strict safety regulations to protect both oneself and the surroundings. The work environment varies greatly and can include construction sites, industries, private residences, and public facilities, often under pressured and sometimes risky conditions.

Salary development over time

The salary for sanitation technicians has increased significantly over the past three years. In 2022, the average was 29,700 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 31 800 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has risen further to 35 000 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 18% over three years. This positive trend can largely be explained by increased demand for qualified workers in the sanitation field, where specialized knowledge and safety competence have become increasingly important. The market is also influenced by society's growing focus on health, environment, and workplace safety requirements, creating a greater need for sanitation services.

Sanitation technician salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 35 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,900 SEK/month (female, 3-year high school education)
• Highest salary: 35,600 SEK/month (male, regional sector, highest 2-year high school education)
• Hourly wage: 210 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Men 35 500 SEK/month, women 32,000 SEK/month (women earn 90% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Highest salaries are found within the regional sector

Education and qualifications

To work as a sanitation technician, a high school education is generally required, often with a focus on construction, civil engineering, or equivalent technical background. Many employers value specific certifications and training in sanitation, such as asbestos removal and working in hazardous environments. Practical experience and on-the-job induction are common, and some companies offer internal trainee programs for new employees.

• High school education: Construction and civil engineering programs or equivalent (2–3 years)
• Certificates: For example, asbestos removal, PCB remediation, or working with hazardous substances
• Internships: Often internship periods or trainee arrangements within sanitation companies
• Prerequisites: Good physical health and proficiency in Swedish, both spoken and written
• Courses: Safety training and workplace environment courses are recommended

Common benefits and compensations

Sanitation technicians are often offered benefits such as overtime pay for evening and weekend work, wellness allowances, work clothing and protective equipment, as well as opportunities for further training and certification courses. Some employers also provide insurance and pension schemes according to collective agreements, along with extra compensation for work in particularly hazardous environments.

Competition and challenges

The job market for sanitation technicians is characterized by some competition, especially in larger cities where demand for sanitation services is high. Challenges in the profession include handling hazardous substances, physically demanding tasks, and the need for continuous education in safety and technology. The industry is also affected by economic cycles and societal investments in property maintenance, which can create periods of greater or lesser demand. Despite this, there are regularly available positions, and in the latest survey, 123 jobs were listed. For those who are flexible and willing to further their education, good employment opportunities exist.

Tips for those who want to become sanitation technicians

To succeed as a sanitation technician, it is good to be meticulous and have a strong safety mindset, as the work often involves handling health-hazardous substances. Good physical fitness and endurance facilitate daily tasks, as the work environment can be both heavy and varied. Flexibility is an important trait, since assignments can range from urgent sanitation jobs to planned projects. Being solution-oriented and able to collaborate with colleagues under pressure is also advantageous. Keeping up to date with new safety regulations and techniques increases the chances of a successful career. Communication skills are valuable, especially when dealing with customers and supervisors. Finally, an interest in environment and health helps in understanding the importance of the profession in society.

Key facts about sanitation technicians

• Education level: High school education, often construction and civil engineering programs
• Work environment: Varied and often physically demanding with a focus on safety
• Typical work arrangement: Full-time, shifts, and sometimes on-call
• Demand: 123 jobs listed in the latest survey
• Special skills: Certificates for asbestos, PCB, and hazardous substances

Career paths and future outlook

After 3–5 years in the profession, a sanitation technician can advance to supervisor, project manager, or specialize in areas such as asbestos removal or environmental technology. There are also opportunities to further educate oneself as an environmental inspector or technical consultant in sanitation. According to the Employment Service's general assessment for the sanitation worker group, no precise forecast can be made due to limited data, but there are regularly available positions and steady demand, especially for those with specialized skills or certificates.

Frequently asked questions about sanitation technicians

• What does a sanitation technician earn?
  - The average salary is 35 000 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 210 SEK.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn an average of 35 500 SEK, women 32,000 SEK, which means women earn approximately 90% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a sanitation technician?
  - High school education, often in construction and civil engineering, as well as certificates for specific sanitation tasks.
• What are the future prospects for sanitation technicians?
  - The forecast is uncertain according to the Employment Service, but there are regularly available jobs in the profession.
• In what work environments does a sanitation technician work?
  - Work takes place in varied environments such as construction sites, industries, and homes, often under physically demanding conditions.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for sanitation technicians?
  - The highest salary is 35,600 SEK (male), the lowest is 30,900 SEK (female).
• What benefits are common in the profession?
  - Common benefits include overtime pay, wellness allowances, work clothing, and further training opportunities.