What does a garbage truck driver do? – Tasks and work environment
A garbage truck driver is responsible for collecting and transporting household waste, recycling materials, and sometimes hazardous waste from homes, businesses, and public places. The job involves driving specially equipped vehicles, often early mornings or late evenings, handling heavy lifting, and sometimes working in varying weather conditions. Safety and accuracy are crucial, as drivers often operate in densely populated areas and must consider traffic and pedestrians. The profession also requires good physical condition due to frequent stops and manual tasks.
Salary development over time
Salaries for garbage truck drivers have steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,200 SEK per month, rising to 32 500 in 2023. In 2024, the average salary reached 33 600, corresponding to an increase of about 7.7% over three years. This positive trend can partly be explained by increased demand for the profession, changes in collective agreements, and a generally strong job market in transportation. Additionally, requirements for professional competence and work environment standards have tightened, possibly contributing to higher salary levels. Women's salaries have also increased, but the gap compared to men's salaries remains, albeit small. Overall, the attractiveness of the profession has strengthened, reflected in the salary development.
Garbage truck driver salary – a complete overview
- Average salary: 33 600 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 28,900 SEK/month (female, public sector)
- Highest salary: 35,500 SEK/month (male, post-secondary education & various sectors)
- Hourly wage (average): 202 SEK
- Gender differences: Women earn 98% of what men do (32 900 SEK/month vs 33 700 SEK/month)
- Regional differences: Salary levels may vary between regions, but detailed statistics are lacking
Education and qualifications
To work as a garbage truck driver, at least a B-driver's license is usually required, but most employers also require a C-license and YKB (professional competence certificate). The educational path can vary depending on previous experience, but many choose to complete the transport program at high school or supplement with adult education. Practical experience and good local knowledge are also valuable assets for those seeking employment in the field.
- Transport program (high school): 3 years
- C-license and YKB: Mandatory qualifications
- Internship: Often through education or as a trainee
- Prerequisites: At least B-license, good physical condition
- Additional courses: e.g., safety training, environmental training
Many garbage truck drivers highlight the social contact with colleagues and residents as an unexpected benefit of the profession. It is common for the same routes to be driven over long periods, creating relationships and a sense of responsibility for the area's well-being.
Common benefits and compensations
In addition to the base salary, allowances are often provided for unsociable working hours, overtime, and sometimes special allowances for work on weekends or nights. Company healthcare, wellness grants, and work clothing are common benefits. Some employers also offer training, opportunities for further development, and pension contributions according to collective agreements.
Competition and challenges
The profession of garbage truck driver is in demand, and competition for jobs is relatively low nationwide, reflected in the 412 available positions. At the same time, recruitment difficulties are reported, primarily due to licensing and professional competence requirements. The work environment can be challenging with heavy lifting, shift work, and sometimes stressful traffic conditions. Despite high unemployment within the profession, demand remains steady, and those with the right qualifications and experience have good prospects for employment. However, increased automation and new environmental regulations may influence the profession over time.
Tips for aspiring garbage truck drivers
To succeed as a garbage truck driver, it is important to have a strong sense of responsibility, as the job involves managing safety and environmental considerations daily. Being thorough and punctual is crucial, as schedules and routes are often fixed and planning must be maintained. Physical endurance and strength facilitate handling heavy containers and frequent lifts. Flexibility is a valued trait, as workdays can vary and unexpected situations may arise. Being social and service-minded is advantageous since contact with colleagues and the public is a natural part of the workday. It is recommended to acquire the necessary driver licenses early and participate in offered training. Showing engagement and willingness to develop also improves chances of permanent employment and advancement.
Key facts about garbage truck drivers
- Education level: High school (Transport program) + C-license and YKB
- Work environment: Physically demanding outdoor work, shift work common
- Demand: Great opportunities for employment, 412 available jobs nationwide
- Gender distribution: Predominantly men, but the proportion of women is increasing
- Career paths: Opportunities for further education in transport and logistics
Career prospects and future outlook
After three to five years in the profession, there are opportunities to advance to supervisory roles, instructor positions for new drivers, or specialize in environmental transport and hazardous waste. Some choose to pursue further education in logistics or transport management, which can lead to new tasks and higher salaries. According to the Employment Service, job prospects are good, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Despite a paradoxical situation with both recruitment difficulties and high unemployment in the profession, the future outlook remains stable for those with the right licenses and experience.
Frequently asked questions about garbage truck drivers
- What does a garbage truck driver earn?
- The average salary for a garbage truck driver is 33 600 SEK per month.
- What education is required to become a garbage truck driver?
- High school transport program or adult education, C-license, and YKB are required.
- Are there many job openings for garbage truck drivers?
- Yes, there are approximately 412 job openings nationwide.
- What is the work environment like for garbage truck drivers?
- The work is physically demanding, outdoors, and often involves early mornings or evenings.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn approximately 98% of what men do within the profession.
- What are the career advancement opportunities?
- Supervisory roles, instructor positions, or further education in transport and logistics.
