Sea rescue leader

What does a Sjöräddningsledare do? – Tasks and work environment

A Sjöräddningsledare works to lead and coordinate rescue operations at sea. The role involves quickly analyzing incoming alarms, making crucial decisions, and directing resources such as boats, helicopters, and personnel to save lives and minimize damage to people, the environment, and property. The work environment is characterized by a high pace and great responsibility, where each operation can be decisive for the outcome. The position is usually performed from a command center, utilizing advanced communication and surveillance systems to coordinate efforts around the clock, year-round. Collaboration with other authorities and volunteer organizations is common and requires good teamwork and stress resilience.

Salary development over time

The salary for a Sjöräddningsledare has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,000 SEK, followed by an increase to 32 800 SEK in 2023 and further to 33 700 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total salary increase of approximately 8.7% over the period, which is slightly higher than the average salary growth within many other critical societal professions. The positive trend can partly be explained by increased demand for specialized rescue skills and higher requirements for education and digital competencies. Despite the salary increase, the salary levels in the profession remain relatively stable, reflecting the balance between supply and demand according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.

Sjöräddningsledare salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 32,900 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 34,600 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 203 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 96% of what men do (men 34,600 SEK, women 33 300 SEK)
• Regional differences: Small or nonexistent, as the profession is regulated and centralized by the state

Education and qualifications

To work as a Sjöräddningsledare, a combination of relevant education and practical experience in shipping, rescue services, or leadership is usually required. Many employers demand post-secondary education in shipping or social protection, but internal training and certifications are also common. The ability to work under pressure and make quick decisions is crucial, as well as good communication skills and IT competence.

• Post-secondary education: For example, shipping or safety training, at least 2 years
• Internal certifications: Rescue leader training via the Swedish Maritime Administration or equivalent
• Internship/trainee: Often a requirement for onboarding at the command center
• Prerequisites: Previous experience from rescue services, shipping, or similar
• Tips for selection: Strong leadership qualities and stress resilience are highly valued during recruitment

Common benefits and compensations

Within the profession Sjöräddningsledare, benefits such as shift allowances, extra vacation for shift work, and wellness contributions are often offered. Access to training and further education is common, as well as pension contributions and sometimes advantageous insurance policies. Employers often cover uniforms or work clothes, and in some cases, support for further education in safety and leadership is provided.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as Sjöräddningsledare is assessed as balanced, according to the Swedish Public Employment Service's latest forecast. The number of available positions reflects demand well, with 191 reported job openings within the profession. Challenges in the role include high workload, the need to make quick decisions, and managing stressful and emotionally demanding situations. Technological development also requires ongoing skills development, and collaboration with many different actors demands social and communicative abilities.

Tips for those wishing to become a Sjöräddningsledare

To succeed as a Sjöräddningsledare, it is good to combine stress resilience with analytical ability, as quick decisions are often made under pressure. Good communication skills are essential for coordinating efforts and creating confidence among colleagues and partners. Leadership and initiative are important qualities that help handle unexpected situations and quickly mobilize resources. Being solution-oriented facilitates adjusting operational plans in real time. Engagement and a sense of responsibility are also central to maintaining motivation and focus, especially during long or demanding shifts. Furthermore, continuously developing IT skills and staying updated on new rescue technology is advantageous. Finally, being attentive and able to collaborate with different actors ensures that efforts are as effective as possible.

Key facts about Sjöräddningsledare

• Salary range: 32,900–34,600 SEK/month
• Gender difference: Women earn 96% of men's salary
• Educational requirements: Post-secondary education and internal certification
• Work environment: Command center, shift work, high pace
• Job opportunities: Moderate, 191 available jobs within the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a Sjöräddningsledare, there are opportunities to advance to more senior roles, such as operational manager, training coordinator, or specialist in maritime safety and collaboration. The Swedish Public Employment Service assesses that job opportunities within the profession are moderate, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Technological development and increased requirements for crisis management may raise skill demands over time but also open new career paths in areas like crisis preparedness, training, or international missions. The job market is characterized by balance, meaning there is neither a shortage nor an oversupply of qualified candidates.

Frequently asked questions about Sjöräddningsledare

• What is the average salary for a Sjöräddningsledare?
  - The average salary is 33 700 SEK per month.
• What does the hourly wage look like for a Sjöräddningsledare?
  - The hourly wage is 203 SEK according to current statistics.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn 96% of what men do in the profession.
• What education is required to become a Sjöräddningsledare?
  - Post-secondary education, preferably in shipping or safety, as well as internal certification are required.
• How does the job market look for Sjöräddningsledare?
  - Job opportunities are moderate, and demand is expected to remain unchanged in the coming years.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a Sjöräddningsledare?
  - The highest salary is 34,600 SEK, and the lowest is 32,900 SEK.