What does a Traffic Guard, Parking Attendant do? – Tasks and Work Environment
A traffic guard, parking attendant is responsible for monitoring and regulating traffic as well as checking compliance with parking rules in both urban environments and private areas. Tasks include patrolling streets, parking lots, and other areas to ensure vehicles are properly parked, issuing parking tickets for violations, and assisting with traffic directing at events, accidents, or roadworks. The job requires good communication skills with the public and the ability to handle stressful situations, as encounters with upset drivers occur. The work environment is often outdoors and involves working in all weather conditions, demanding physical endurance and flexibility in working hours.
Salary Development Over Time
Over the past three years, salary development for traffic guards, parking attendants has shown a steady increase. In 2022, the average salary was 30,700 SEK per month, rising to 32 400 SEK in 2023 and further to the current level of 34 500 SEK in 2024. This represents a total salary increase of approximately 12.4% over three years. The positive trend can be linked to increased demand for security personnel as cities grow and traffic environments become more complex, along with general salary adjustments within the public sector. An increased focus on safety and order in public environments has also contributed to strengthening the salary development of the profession. Differences between employers and regions may, however, influence individual salary developments.
Traffic Guard, Parking Attendant Salary – Complete Overview
- Average salary: 34 500 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 30,200 SEK/month (men), 30,600 SEK/month (women)
- Highest salary: 47,100 SEK/month (men), 41,700 SEK/month (women)
- Hourly wage (average): 207 SEK
- Gender differences: Women earn 93% of what men do (men: 35 400 SEK, women: 32 900 SEK)
- Regional differences: Salary variations occur between urban and rural areas, but detailed statistics vary.
Education and Qualifications
To work as a traffic guard, parking attendant, usually no extensive formal education is required, but employers often demand a high school diploma and good knowledge of Swedish. Introductory courses in security and traffic regulations are often provided by the employer, and some require certification or completed internal training. Practical experience in customer service or order maintenance is advantageous, and personal suitability is highly valued during recruitment.
- High school diploma: Usually a basic requirement
- Internal training: Introductory course with the employer (1–4 weeks)
- Certifications: Some employers require security training certificates
- Internship: May be part of the introduction
- Language skills: Good Swedish, additional languages are advantageous
Many traffic guards and parking attendants develop a unique ability to quickly read situations and people – a trait that often leads to good relationships with colleagues and the public, despite the challenging encounters in the profession.
Common Benefits and Compensation
Common benefits for traffic guards and parking attendants include overtime pay for working unsociable hours, wellness contributions, work clothing, and sometimes meal allowances. Several employers also offer pension contributions beyond the statutory level, as well as opportunities for skills development and further training within the profession.
Competition and Challenges
Competition for positions as traffic guard and parking attendant varies depending on the region and demand. Larger cities often have higher competition, while smaller towns may find it easier to get employed. Challenges in the profession include managing conflicts with drivers and pedestrians, working outdoors in all weather, and staying updated on constantly changing traffic and parking regulations. The work requires both mental and physical endurance, and the ability to make quick decisions under pressure is crucial. Digitalization and automated systems may influence the job market in the future, but personal presence remains central to the role in society.
Tips for Aspiring Traffic Guards, Parking Attendants
To succeed as a traffic guard, parking attendant, it is beneficial to be service-minded and highly resilient to stress, as the job involves many interactions with people in pressured situations. Good communication skills facilitate conflict management and help create a safe environment for colleagues and traffic participants. Being thorough and attentive is important for quickly identifying and handling violations or risky situations. Flexibility and the ability to adapt to varying work environments and hours are also valuable. Showing respect and listening carefully in contact with the public makes the work smoother and more rewarding. Practical experience in customer service or security is advantageous and can ease entry into the profession. Finally, being physically active is a plus, as the work often involves walking and working in all weather conditions.
Key Facts about Traffic Guard, Parking Attendant
- Average salary: 34 500 SEK/month
- Salary range: 30,200–47,100 SEK/month
- Education requirements: High school diploma, internal training
- Work environment: Outdoors, varying hours and weather
- Demand: 191 available jobs in Sweden (2024)
Career Paths and Future Outlook
After three to five years in the profession, there are opportunities to advance to supervisory roles, such as team leader or coordinator within the security and safety industry. Some choose to further specialize in security, order management, or traffic planning, seeking roles with more administrative responsibility or specialization, e.g., traffic engineer or trainer. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the forecast indicates continued strong demand for traffic guards and parking attendants, especially in metropolitan areas where traffic flows and regulation needs increase. Digitalization and technical tools are changing the tasks, but the human factor remains central to the future of the profession.
Frequently Asked Questions about Traffic Guard, Parking Attendant
- What does a Traffic Guard, Parking Attendant earn?
– The average salary is 34 500 SEK per month, with variations between 30,200 and 47,100 SEK depending on experience and sector.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
– Yes, men earn an average of 35 400 SEK and women 32 900 SEK, which means women earn approximately 93% of men's salaries.
- What education is required to become a Traffic Guard, Parking Attendant?
– High school education and internal training are most common; sometimes certification in security is also required.
- What does the work environment look like?
– The work is mainly outdoors, often on foot, requiring readiness for all weather and shift work.
- What are the most common benefits?
– Overtime pay, wellness allowance, work clothing, and sometimes additional pension contributions are often offered.
- What are the future prospects?
– The outlook remains good, especially in larger cities, with over 190 job openings in the profession.
- Are there opportunities for career development?
– Yes, after a few years, one can advance to supervisory roles or further education within security and traffic planning.
