Cleaning inspector

What does a cleaning inspector do? – Tasks and work environment

A cleaning inspector has overall responsibility for quality control and management of cleaning staff within, for example, property companies, hotels, or public organizations. Tasks include planning and allocating work, ensuring cleaning meets agreed standards, and following up on work environment and routines. The inspector often acts as a link between management and staff, and handles contact with clients or clients to ensure their requirements are met. The work environment is often dynamic, involving both administrative office work and regular site visits for inspections.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for a cleaning inspector has shown a relatively stable trend. In 2022, the average salary was 31,900 SEK per month, increasing the following year to 33 500 SEK, which corresponds to an increase of about 5%. Between 2023 and 2024, the salary has stabilized and slightly decreased to 33 200 SEK, indicating a slowdown in wage growth. This development can be explained by a saturated job market and a continued high supply of qualified personnel, while demand for leadership in cleaning remains stable. Regional differences and employer sector also influence salary levels, with public employers often offering slightly higher wages than private ones. Overall, the profession has experienced favorable salary growth, but the past year shows signs of slowdown.

Cleaning inspector salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,200 SEK/month (female, private sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Highest salary: 38,000 SEK/month (male, regional sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage: 200 SEK
• Women: 32,500 SEK/month
• Men: 36 400 SEK/month
• Women earn: 89% of what men do

Education and qualifications

To work as a cleaning inspector, experience from the cleaning industry is generally required, often complemented by high school education, preferably supplemented with specialized courses in cleaning, work management, or quality control. Many employers also view further education in work environment and leadership positively. Practical experience and good references are highly valued when recruiting for this leadership role.

• High school education: Usually focused on hotel, tourism, or cleaning
• Post-secondary courses: Leadership, quality control, work environment
• Certifications: Cleaning and facility management courses from industry organizations
• Practical experience: Several years of work in cleaning/facilities management recommended
• Prerequisites: Good Swedish skills, documented cleaning experience, and references

Common benefits and compensations

Cleaning inspectors are often covered by collective agreements and usually have rights to extra vacation days, wellness allowances, and occupational pensions. Some employers also provide work clothes, training opportunities, and flexible working hours. In some cases, mobile phones and work computers are included, especially in larger organizations.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a cleaning inspector is moderate, but there are certain challenges associated with the role. Besides staying updated on changes in industry standards and work environment regulations, high demands are placed on communication skills and leadership. Balancing quality requirements and efficiency can be challenging, especially with high staff turnover or changing customer demands. Additionally, differences in salary and conditions between sectors and regions can affect opportunities for advancement and salary development.

Tips for aspiring cleaning inspectors

To succeed as a cleaning inspector, good organizational skills and attention to detail are important, as the role involves planning, follow-up, and ensuring high standards. Being communicative and able to collaborate easily facilitates leadership and contact with colleagues and clients. Engagement and initiative are appreciated by employers, especially when it involves improving routines or handling new challenges. Flexibility and stress tolerance are also valuable, as the work environment is often dynamic. A clear focus on quality is essential for building trust and long-term customer relationships. Practical experience in the cleaning industry increases the chances of quickly understanding the tasks and gaining respect among staff. Continuing education in leadership and work environment is also an investment for future career opportunities.

Key facts about Cleaning Inspector

• Average salary: 33 200 SEK/month
• Gender salary difference: Women earn 89% of men's salary
• Typical education level: High school + industry-specific courses
• Job openings: 123 current positions in Sweden
• Work environment: Combination of office work and inspections on site

Career paths and future prospects

After some years in the profession, a cleaning inspector can advance to supervisory roles such as operations manager, service manager, or quality manager within larger organizations. The employment agency's forecasts show that demand for skilled cleaning managers remains stable, with 123 current job openings. Future prospects are good due to increasing complexity in cleaning assignments and higher quality and environmental standards. Specialization in areas like environmental certification or work environment management can also open doors to new career paths and higher salaries. With broad experience and further education, there are good opportunities to move into management positions or start your own cleaning business.

Frequently asked questions about Cleaning Inspector

• What is the average salary for a cleaning inspector?
  - The average salary is 33 200 SEK per month.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a cleaning inspector?
  - The highest salary is 38,000 SEK and the lowest is 31,200 SEK per month.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn 32,500 SEK while men earn 36 400 SEK, meaning women earn 89% of men's salary.
• What education is required to become a cleaning inspector?
  - Usually, high school education plus industry-specific courses and experience.
• What is the job market like for cleaning inspectors?
  - There are 123 current job openings, and the outlook is good.
• What are the duties of a cleaning inspector?
  - Planning, quality control, leadership, and contact with clients and staff.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, public employers often offer slightly higher salaries than private ones, and salaries vary by region.