Garbage sorter

What does a waste sorter do? – Tasks and work environment

A waste sorter works with managing, sorting, and sometimes transporting waste and recyclable materials from households, businesses, and industries. The tasks often involve manual sorting of materials such as paper, plastic, metal, and hazardous waste, as well as monitoring machines and conveyor belts. In some cases, work may also include assessing and classifying waste for further processing or recycling. The work environment varies and can include outdoor and indoor work at recycling centers or sorting facilities. The profession requires good physical condition, attention to detail, and a high level of safety and hygiene awareness.

Salary development over time

The salary for waste sorters has shown stable and positive growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,100 SEK per month. In 2023, the average increased to 32 100 SEK, corresponding to a salary increase of about 6.6%. In 2024, the average salary continued upward to 32 700 SEK, an increase of an additional 1.9% from the previous year. This development reflects an increased demand for labor in recycling and sanitation, driven by society's growing focus on sustainability and environmental work. Salaries are also influenced by collective agreements and regional differences but have generally been strengthened by high demand for the profession and recruitment challenges.

Waste sorter salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 32 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,700 SEK/month (female, private sector, pre-high school education)
• Highest salary: 35,000 SEK/month (female, public sector, post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 196 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 31 900 SEK/month, men 32 800 SEK/month (women earn 97% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Slight variations, but higher salaries may occur in metropolitan areas and municipalities with high demand for labor

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a waste sorter is often relatively short and usually requires no formal higher education. Employers typically prefer high school education, but it is also possible to get hired with primary education and work experience. Practical introduction and on-the-job training are common, and some employers may offer courses in work environment, safety, and hazardous waste handling.

• Educational requirements: High school education, preferably with focus on transport, environment, or technology
• Introduction/internship: Often internal training at the workplace
• Certifications: Courses in work environment and safe handling of hazardous waste may be required
• Driver's license: B-license or C-license can be advantageous depending on tasks
• Personal qualities: Accuracy, responsibility, and good physical condition

Common benefits and compensations

Waste sorters are often covered by collective agreements that grant rights to compensation for unsocial hours, overtime, and sometimes shift work. Common benefits include wellness allowances, work clothing, protective equipment, and occasionally opportunities for skill development through courses and training. Some employers also offer subsidized meals or employee discounts.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for waste sorters is characterized by high demand but also some staff turnover and recruitment difficulties. Many employers report difficulty in finding enough personnel, while the profession sometimes has a high proportion of part-time workers or those leaving for other industries. Physically demanding work environment, monotonous tasks, and exposure to weather conditions can pose challenges, as can handling hazardous waste and following strict safety routines. Despite this, the job market remains stable, and employment opportunities are expected to remain strong both short and long term.

Tips for those who want to become waste sorters

To succeed as a waste sorter, it is good to have good physical fitness, as the work often involves heavy lifting and many hours of movement. Being precise and attentive helps to sort materials correctly and follow safety routines, which are crucial for both the environment and health. Flexibility and the ability to adapt to varying tasks and weather conditions greatly facilitate daily work. It is also valuable to demonstrate responsibility and punctuality, especially when working with scheduled collection routes or at larger facilities. Social competence and teamwork skills ease collaboration with colleagues, while an interest in environmental issues can provide extra motivation in daily tasks. Being proactive and willing to further educate oneself, for example in machinery handling or safety routines, can open doors to new roles within the industry.

Key facts about waste sorters

• Average salary: 32 700 SEK/month
• Educational requirements: High school education or equivalent
• Work environment: Physically demanding, often outdoors or at sorting facilities
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide
• Typical employment form: Full-time or shift work

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years as a waste sorter, there are opportunities to develop within the profession, such as to supervisor, machine operator, or environmental technician. Some choose to further their education in waste management, environmental protection, or logistics to move into more specialized roles. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, job opportunities remain large, and demand is expected to stay unchanged over the next five years. Paradoxically, there are recruitment difficulties alongside some staff turnover. Overall, there are 123 job openings in the sanitation and recycling worker sector, indicating good chances of employment for those interested in the industry.

Common questions about waste sorters

• What is the average salary of a waste sorter?
  - The average salary for a waste sorter is 32 700 SEK per month.
• What are the lowest and highest salaries for waste sorters?
  - The lowest salary is 27,700 SEK and the highest is 35,000 SEK per month.
• Is there a salary difference between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 31 900 SEK and men 32 800 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a waste sorter?
  - High school education is recommended, but some employers also hire with primary education.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Job opportunities are plentiful, and demand is expected to remain unchanged in the coming years.
• What occupational hazards exist?
  - Risks include heavy lifting, monotonous movements, and handling hazardous waste, but protective equipment and safety routines are used.
• Is there an opportunity for further education?
  - Yes, courses in environment, safety, and machinery handling are often available.