Sanitary technician, occupational hygiene

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

A sanitation technician in occupational hygiene works to prevent and manage risks related to hygiene and sanitation at workplaces. Common tasks include inspections of work environments, sampling of air, water, and surfaces, and advising on routines for cleaning and disinfection. The role often involves close collaboration with occupational health services, supervisors, and authorities to ensure compliance with laws and guidelines. The work environment can range from office settings to industries, hospitals, and construction sites, where both fieldwork and documentation are part of daily activities.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for sanitation technicians in occupational hygiene has shown a steady upward trend. In 2022, the average salary was 48,600 SEK per month, increasing to 51 200 SEK in the following year, which is approximately a 5.2% increase. In 2024, the average salary has continued to rise to 53 200 SEK, an increase of another 3.9% compared to the previous year. This positive salary trend reflects an increasing demand for expertise in occupational health and hygiene, and the profession’s requirement for high education levels and specialized knowledge. Although salaries are rising slightly faster than the average on the job market, some gender gaps and regional variations remain.

Sanitation technician in occupational hygiene salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 53 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 41,700 SEK/month (female, private employee, 3-year high school education)
• Highest salary: 58,700 SEK/month (male, private employee, at least 3-year post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 320 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 95% of what men do (women: 51 700 SEK, men: 54 500 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data on regional variations is unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a sanitation technician in occupational hygiene, a post-secondary education in technology, environment, or occupational health is usually required, often with a focus on hygiene and sanitation. Practical experience in occupational health work and specialized training in occupational hygiene are advantageous. Many employers also value certifications or courses in occupational health legislation and risk assessment.

• Post-secondary education: Technical or scientific education of at least 3 years
• Certifications: Courses in occupational health, hygiene, and environmental technology
• Practical experience: Relevant work experience or internship programs are often advantageous
• Prerequisites: High school education with a focus on technology or science
• Tips for choosing: Specialization in occupational health or environmental technology increases employability

Common benefits and compensations

Sanitation technicians in occupational hygiene are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, extra vacation days, pension contributions, and opportunities for skill development through courses and further training. In some cases, company cars, flexible working hours, and insurance related to occupational health and safety are also available.

Competition and challenges

The profession of sanitation technician in occupational hygiene has a specialized profile, meaning competition for positions varies depending on region and sector. Since the role requires both technical and medical understanding, staying updated on new regulations and technical solutions in occupational health is important. Challenges may include rapid responses to acute sanitary issues and working with complex risk assessments under time pressure. However, the growing awareness of occupational health and disease prevention drives demand, providing good opportunities for qualified individuals to establish themselves in the job market.

Tips for aspiring sanitation technicians in occupational hygiene

To succeed as a sanitation technician in occupational hygiene, it’s helpful to have analytical skills and a genuine interest in occupational health issues. Being meticulous helps in identifying risks and following up on measures effectively, while good communication skills facilitate collaboration with colleagues and authorities. Flexibility is crucial, as tasks can vary between fieldwork and office-based analysis. It’s also valuable to stay updated on legislation and new technology, and actively seek internships or trainee positions to build experience. Developing a problem-solving attitude and being receptive to workplace needs will make you a valued resource in the profession.

Key facts about sanitation technicians in occupational hygiene

• Educational level: Post-secondary education of at least 3 years
• Work environment: Varied between office, industry, and fieldwork
• Typical employment: Full-time, often daytime but sometimes on call
• Demand: 191 job openings in the profession (May 2024)
• Special skills: Risk assessment, hygiene routines, and occupational health legislation

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a sanitation technician in occupational hygiene can advance to roles such as occupational health specialist, project manager in occupational health, or consultant in occupational hygiene. There are also opportunities to work strategically on developing sanitation policies or as trainers in the field. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, no specific assessment is made for this job title due to limited data, but in the occupational group of occupational health engineers and environmental hygienists, there were 191 job openings in spring 2024, indicating steady demand. The increasing importance of occupational health and infection control in society suggests good future prospects, especially for those who pursue further education and stay updated with new regulations and technologies.

Frequently asked questions about sanitation technicians in occupational hygiene

• What does a sanitation technician in occupational hygiene earn?
  - The average salary is 53 200 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 320 SEK.
• What education is required to become a sanitation technician in occupational hygiene?
  - Post-secondary education in technology, environment, or occupational health, often at least 3 years, plus specialized courses in hygiene and occupational health.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn on average 95% of what men do within the profession.
• What does the job market look like?
  - There are 191 job openings in the profession according to the latest survey, but no specific forecast for this particular role.
• What are the tasks of a sanitation technician in occupational hygiene?
  - Inspections, sampling, risk assessments, and advising on hygiene routines at workplaces.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Wellness allowances, skill development, extra vacation, and sometimes company cars or insurance policies.
• What are the career opportunities?
  - Opportunities include advancing to specialist, project manager, or consultant within occupational health and hygiene.