Chimney sweep master

What does a Skorstensfejarmästare do? – Tasks and work environment

A Skorstensfejarmästare is responsible for ensuring fire safety and good ventilation in buildings by inspecting, cleaning, and maintaining chimneys, fireplaces, and ventilation systems. The tasks also include advising property owners on fire safety, issuing certificates, and supervising technical installations. The work takes place both outdoors and indoors, often at high elevations and sometimes under challenging weather conditions. The Skorstensfejarmästare works closely with private individuals, companies, and authorities, requiring good communication skills and a high sense of responsibility.

Salary development over time

The salary for a Skorstensfejarmästare has shown steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 34,873 SEK per month, followed by a slight increase to 35 157 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary continued to rise to 35 304 SEK per month, representing a total increase of approximately 1.2% over this three-year period. The modest but steady salary increase can be linked to a relatively constant demand for the profession, where the tasks are important for societal fire safety, but the number of new positions is limited. The market is also influenced by technological advances and changes in the building stock, but the need for qualified workers in the chimney sweeping industry remains. Salary levels also reflect the educational and responsibility requirements of the profession, while competition for jobs is moderate.

Skorstensfejarmästare salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 35 304 SEK/month
• Lowest/Highest salary: Data not available
• Hourly wage: 212 SEK
• Gender differences: Data not available
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To become a Skorstensfejarmästare, one needs vocational training in chimney sweeping, followed by several years of work experience and further education to achieve master level. The training covers both theory and practical skills related to fire safety, ventilation, and building technology. After completing the basic education, certification and continuous professional development are often required to stay updated with regulations and technological changes.

• Vocational training: Chimney sweeper (approximately 3 years, secondary school level or adult education)
• Further education: Master’s degree in the profession
• Certifications: Mandatory industry certificates for certain tasks
• Internship: Extended practical training and supervision required
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition, technical interest, and comfort with heights

Common benefits and compensations

Most Skorstensfejarmästare are covered by collective agreements that include occupational pensions, insurance, and wellness allowances. Other common benefits may include work clothing, tools, compensation for inconvenient working hours, and sometimes access to company cars. Some employers also offer skills development and further training as part of employment.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a Skorstensfejarmästare is considered moderate, but the number of available positions is affected by factors such as generational change and alterations in the building stock. A challenge is that the profession requires both extensive experience and specialized skills, which can make it difficult to quickly recruit new masters. The industry is also influenced by changing regulations and technological innovations, which require ongoing training. The working environment can be demanding with high safety standards, varying workplaces, and physically demanding tasks. Despite this, there is a steady demand for skilled professionals, especially in regions with older buildings.

Tips for those who want to become a Skorstensfejarmästare

To succeed as a Skorstensfejarmästare, it is good to have an interest in technology and fire safety, as well as good physical condition and comfort working at heights, since work often takes place on roofs and in tight spaces. A careful and responsible attitude is important to ensure safety for oneself and clients. Being service-oriented and pedagogical facilitates communication with customers and authorities, especially regarding advice and information on fire safety regulations. Taking the initiative for further education and certification increases opportunities for advancement. Teamwork skills and flexibility are also valuable, as tasks and environments vary greatly. A structured approach helps manage documentation and reporting, which are part of the role. Finally, being solution-oriented and able to quickly identify and address problems in various technical systems is an advantage.

Key facts about Skorstensfejarmästare

• Average salary: 35 304 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 212 SEK
• Education level: Vocational training + master’s degree
• Number of available jobs: 123 (within the profession)
• Work environment: Physically demanding, work at heights and in varied environments

Career paths and future prospects

After several years of experience as a chimney sweep and further training to become a master, opportunities may open for supervisory roles, self-employment, or specialization in fire safety and ventilation. The industry is relatively stable but small, and according to the Swedish Employment Service’s forecasts, no precise assessment can be made for the profession due to limited data. Nonetheless, there is a continuous need for qualified Skorstensfejarmästare, especially in areas with older buildings and ongoing generational change. Opportunities for further education in related fields, such as energy certification or building inspection, can also broaden career paths. After 3–5 years in the profession, it is common to take on greater responsibility, supervise new colleagues, or run your own business. The shortage of skilled workers in some regions may, in the long run, provide good future prospects for those who are educated and experienced.

Frequently asked questions about Skorstensfejarmästare

• What does a Skorstensfejarmästare earn?
  - The average salary is 35 304 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a Skorstensfejarmästare?
  - Vocational training in chimney sweeping and further education with a master’s degree are required.
• What is the work environment like for a Skorstensfejarmästare?
  - The work is physically demanding, often at high elevations and in varied environments.
• Are there many job opportunities as a Skorstensfejarmästare?
  - There are 123 available jobs within the profession according to the latest data.
• What benefits are common in this profession?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, insurance, work clothing, and wellness allowances.
• What are the future prospects for a Skorstensfejarmästare?
  - Prognoses are uncertain, but the need for skilled professionals is expected to remain stable over time.