School caretaker

What does a school caretaker do? – Tasks and work environment

A school caretaker is responsible for the daily operation and maintenance of the school's premises and outdoor environment. Tasks range from performing simple repairs and building maintenance to handling deliveries, lock systems, and security routines. A significant part of the work also involves being available to school staff and students to quickly resolve practical problems that arise during the school day. The work environment is often mobile, with both indoor and outdoor tasks, requiring flexibility and the ability to handle physical work in various weather conditions.

Salary development over time

The salary for a school caretaker has shown a steady upward trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,300 SEK per month, increasing to 31 000 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the salary continued to rise to 32 400 SEK, which corresponds to an increase of about 7% over the three-year period. This salary development can partly be explained by increased demand for property maintenance within school environments, but also by general wage adjustments within the public sector. Despite the increase, the salary level remains in the lower range for property management, reflecting the nature of the profession and educational requirements.

School caretaker salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 32 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 22,600 SEK/month (female, private sector employee)
• Highest salary: 38,800 SEK/month (male, private sector employee with research education)
• Hourly wage: 195 SEK
• Gender differences: Men earn 32 500 SEK, women 31 900 SEK (women earn 98% of what men do)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on municipality and region, but larger differences mainly occur between bigger and smaller cities.

Education and qualifications

To work as a school caretaker, a high school diploma is usually required, preferably with a focus on property management or technology. Practical experience from similar jobs is often advantageous, and many employers value courses in security and basic property maintenance. Specialized knowledge such as lock handling, ventilation, or fire safety can be an advantage when employed.

• High school diploma: Property, technology, or construction (3 years)
• Certifications/courses: For example, in security, fire safety, lock systems
• Internship/trainee: Often advantageous with workplace internship
• Prerequisites: No formal higher education required, but technical interest and experience are important
• Tips for choosing: Select education with elements of property management and maintenance

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for school caretakers include wellness allowances, occupational pension, and subsidized meals. In some cases, work clothes, extra vacation days, and opportunities for professional development through internal or external courses are also offered. Employers within the municipal sector often provide secure employment conditions and collective agreements.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a school caretaker is considered relatively high nationwide, with an oversupply of applicants compared to available jobs. The Employment Service's forecast indicates unchanged opportunities over the next five years, meaning demand is expected to remain at current levels. Challenges in the profession often involve handling varied tasks and quickly adapting to unforeseen situations. Physically demanding work, combined with high safety and service requirements, makes the role demanding in terms of competence and flexibility.

Tips for those who want to become a school caretaker

To succeed as a school caretaker, it is beneficial to be practical and have good problem-solving skills, as the workday often involves finding quick solutions to unexpected problems. A clear service-minded approach facilitates contact with both students and staff, while patience and stress tolerance are important when the pace increases. Being meticulous and organized helps keep track of tasks and safety routines. Flexibility and the ability to collaborate are crucial, as tasks vary and daily cooperation with different professional groups occurs. A willingness to continuously learn new techniques and routines makes it easier to keep up with developments in property management. Social skills and a friendly attitude are also important, as the role often involves many personal interactions each day.

Key facts about school caretakers

• Education level: High school diploma, often with focus on property or technology
• Work environment: School environment, both indoors and outdoors
• Typical employment form: Full-time, municipal or private sector
• Demand: Limited opportunities for new jobs, oversupply of applicants
• Available jobs: 481 available positions within the property management profession

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience, a school caretaker can move on to more specialized roles within property management, such as property technician, supervisor, or technical manager. There are also opportunities to further educate oneself in security, fire safety, or energy technology, which can lead to higher responsibility or new work areas. According to the Employment Service's forecast for the property management group, demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with limited opportunities for new jobs and a nationwide oversupply of applicants. Nevertheless, there are still some available positions, especially in larger cities or due to retirements, providing opportunities for those with the right skills and experience.

Frequently asked questions about school caretakers

• What does a school caretaker earn?
  - A school caretaker has an average salary of 32 400 SEK per month.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, men earn an average of 32 500 SEK and women 31 900 SEK, which means women earn approximately 98% of men's salaries.
• What is the job market like for school caretakers?
  - The job market is characterized by an oversupply of applicants and limited opportunities for new positions according to the Employment Service's forecast.
• What education is required to become a school caretaker?
  - High school diploma, preferably in property management, technology, or construction, along with practical experience, is advantageous.
• What are the duties of a school caretaker?
  - Duties include maintenance, repairs, property operation, and service to school staff and students.
• What opportunities are there for further education?
  - Opportunities exist to further educate in property technology, security, or energy technology to take on more qualified roles.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salary levels can vary depending on municipality and region, but the largest differences mainly occur between bigger and smaller cities.