Carriage receiver

What does a wagon receiver do? – Tasks and work environment

A wagon receiver is responsible for receiving, inspecting, and handling railway wagons at depots, workshops, or marshalling yards. Tasks include accepting arriving wagons, checking their condition, documenting any damages, and ensuring that wagons are ready for maintenance or further transport. The role involves collaboration with train drivers, traffic controllers, and maintenance staff to maintain safety and efficiency in train traffic. The work environment is often outdoors or in large workshop facilities with noise, varying temperatures, and heavy lifting, which requires both precision and physical endurance.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salary development for wagon receivers has been steadily increasing. In 2022, the average salary was 31,900 SEK per month, which increased to 33 200 SEK in 2023 and further to 34 400 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 7.8% during the period, slightly above the average for similar technical professions. This positive trend is partly explained by an increased need for qualified personnel in the railway sector, with employers competing for labor by offering better conditions. Despite this, some salary differences between genders remain, with women still earning less than men in the profession. Regional variations exist, but the overall trend indicates continued demand and stable salary growth for wagon receivers.

Wagon receiver salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 34 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,100 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school education 3 years)
• Highest salary: 36,300 SEK/month (male, regional sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage: 207 SEK
• Gender differences: Men earn 34 500 SEK, women 32 500 SEK (women earn 94% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Differences exist, highest salaries are found in the regional sector

Education and qualifications

To work as a wagon receiver, a high school education in vehicle technology or a related technical field is usually required. Many employers also seek experience from work in railway, workshop, or similar environments. Practical skills and understanding of safety procedures are especially valuable, as is the ability to work with technical documentation and digital systems. Further training or certifications in railway safety can be advantageous.

• Education: High school diploma in vehicle technology or technical programs, 3 years
• Certifications: Railway safety training, occupational safety training
• Internship: Workplace-based learning (APL) is recommended
• Prerequisites: Technical interest and good physical condition
• Tips: Extra courses in safety and vehicle diagnostics increase employability

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to the base salary, wagon receivers often receive benefits such as overtime pay for evening and weekend work, wellness allowances, and opportunities for further training. Many employers also provide work clothes, protective equipment, and discounts on public transportation. Pension schemes and insurance are usually included in employment terms.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as a wagon receiver varies by region and economic climate. Despite a relatively high number of vacancies within the profession, recruitment difficulties sometimes occur, especially in finding personnel with the right technical skills and railway experience. A challenge is also that the work environment can be physically demanding and exposed to weather and noise. Technological changes in the industry require continuous skills development, and digitalization of work processes means new tools and systems must be learned quickly. At the same time, the profession offers good opportunities for those willing to further educate themselves and stay updated.

Tips for aspiring wagon receivers

To succeed as a wagon receiver, it is beneficial to combine technical interest with accuracy and a sense of responsibility. Demonstrating initiative and being solution-oriented facilitates the quick detection and correction of faults. Good communication skills are important, as the work involves close collaboration with other railway professionals. Flexibility and patience help manage shift work and varied work environments. Being physically resilient and eager to learn new things helps meet the demands of safety and technological development. An active interest in work environment and safety is appreciated by employers, so it is wise to familiarize oneself early with applicable rules and routines. Finally, chances of employment increase significantly if education is complemented with internships or summer jobs in vehicle or railway industries.

Key facts about Wagon Receiver

• Education level: High school diploma in technology or vehicles
• Work environment: Workshop, marshalling yard, outdoor environment
• Typical work pattern: Shift work, including weekends and weekdays
• Demand: High, 481 job openings within the profession
• Gender distribution: Salary differences remain, women earn 94% of men's salaries

Career paths and future outlook

A wagon receiver can, after a few years of experience, advance to roles such as supervisor, safety coordinator, or specialist in vehicle inspection and maintenance. There are also opportunities for further education as a technician or instructor within the railway sector. According to the Swedish Employment Agency's forecast, the job market remains favorable, with great opportunities within the fields of motor vehicle mechanics and vehicle repair. Demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, but recruitment difficulties are expected to persist, especially for those with the right technical background and experience. Those wishing to develop further can also pursue education in logistics, safety, or leadership to broaden their career options.

Frequently asked questions about Wagon Receiver

• What is the average salary of a wagon receiver?
  - The average salary for a wagon receiver is 34 400 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a wagon receiver?
  - High school education in vehicle or technical fields is recommended, often supplemented with railway safety training.
• Are there regional differences in salary?
  - Yes, the highest salaries are found in the regional sector, while the public sector often has slightly lower wages.
• What are the future prospects for wagon receivers?
  - The job market is considered good with many vacancies and stable demand in the coming years.
• What personal qualities are important in this profession?
  - Attention to detail, sense of responsibility, technical interest, and good teamwork skills are particularly important.
• How big is the salary gap between men and women?
  - Women earn approximately 94% of what men do within the profession.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a wagon receiver?
  - The highest salary is 36,300 SEK per month, and the lowest is 30,100 SEK per month.