What does a train car cleaner do? – Tasks and work environment
A train car cleaner is responsible for cleaning and maintaining train cars and similar public transport vehicles. The work includes daily cleaning and more extensive sanitation, such as trash removal, vacuuming, wiping surfaces, window cleaning, and sometimes disinfecting particularly dirty areas. Train car cleaners often work in shifts, including evenings and nights, since cleaning usually occurs when the trains are stationary and not in operation. The work environment can be physically demanding and often involves working in noisy environments, handling cleaning agents, and operating machinery.
Salary development over time
Train car cleaners have experienced steady salary increases in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 25,600 SEK per month, which increased to 26 700 in 2023 and reached 27 600 in 2024. The total increase over three years amounts to approximately 7.8%, which is slightly higher than the general wage growth within the cleaning industry. Contributing factors include increased demand for public transportation, higher cleanliness and hygiene standards, and competition for workers in service professions. At the same time, the labor market structure, where many work part-time, influences wage formation. The trend indicates continued stable development, with salary levels expected to remain relatively consistent in the coming years.
The work of a train car cleaner often involves irregular hours, which can suit individuals seeking flexibility and daytime free time. Many appreciate the variety of tasks and the clear connection between effort and result – a well-cleaned train is immediately noticeable to both passengers and employers.
Train car cleaner salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 27 600 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 25,600 SEK/month
- Highest salary: 29,700 SEK/month
- Hourly wage (average): 166 SEK
- Women: 27 300 SEK/month (96% of men's salary)
- Men: 28,500 SEK/month
- Regional differences: Salary levels may vary slightly depending on region and employer, but differences are generally small.
Education and qualifications
To work as a train car cleaner, usually no formal education beyond basic schooling is required, but employers prefer candidates with high school education and some experience in service or cleaning work. Introductory training is often provided at the workplace and can be supplemented with internal courses in chemical handling and work environment. Practical experience and good physical condition are important factors for thriving and developing in the profession.
- Formal education: Basic or high school education
- Introductory training: Often on-site, 1–2 weeks
- Certifications/courses: Hygiene and chemical handling (internal)
- Internship: Meritorious but not a formal requirement
- Prerequisites: Good physical health and service orientation
Common benefits and compensations
Train car cleaners are often covered by collective agreements that entitle them to overtime pay for unsocial hours, holiday pay, wellness allowances, and sometimes discounted travel within public transportation. Some employers also provide work clothing and regular health check-ups.
Competition and challenges
Demand for train car cleaners is generally high, and employment opportunities are considered plentiful according to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts. At the same time, the profession is characterized by a paradoxical recruitment situation, with a shortage of full-time workers while many work part-time. Challenges include irregular working hours and physically demanding work, which require endurance and flexibility. Competition for jobs is relatively low, but it can still be difficult to find staff for certain shifts or geographic areas.
Tips for those who want to become a train car cleaner
To succeed as a train car cleaner, it is good to combine thoroughness with a positive attitude towards physical work. Being flexible facilitates adapting to varying working hours, and good stress tolerance helps during busy shifts. Service orientation is an important trait, as the profession involves contributing to passengers' comfort and safety. Demonstrating responsibility for both work environment and colleagues is appreciated by employers. Furthermore, being proactive and able to quickly solve unexpected problems during a shift is advantageous. Lastly, good teamwork skills are beneficial, as work often occurs in teams or in close contact with other staff.
Key facts about train car cleaners
- Education level: Basic or high school education
- Work environment: Shift work, often evenings and nights
- Demand: Large opportunities for employment nationwide
- Highest salary: 29,700 SEK/month for private sector male employees
- Common work form: Part-time or shift work
Career paths and future prospects
After a few years as a train car cleaner, there are opportunities to advance to supervisory roles, such as team leader or supervisor within the cleaning team. Further training in sanitation, work environment, or specialized cleaning can open doors to more specialized positions. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicate that job opportunities for cleaners, including train car cleaners, are expected to remain large nationwide. Demand is projected to stay unchanged over the next five years, with a continuous need for both permanent and temporary staff. With experience and initiative, roles in quality control or training may also become available.
Frequently asked questions about train car cleaners
- What is the average salary of a train car cleaner?
- A train car cleaner has an average salary of 27 600 SEK per month.
- Is there a pay gap between men and women?
- Yes, women earn on average 96% of what men do in the profession.
- What education is required to become a train car cleaner?
- Basic or high school education is usually sufficient, with introductory training at the workplace.
- What is the job market like for train car cleaners?
- Opportunities for employment are plentiful, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
- What are the working hours for train car cleaners?
- Work often occurs in shifts, including evenings and nights.
- Are there opportunities for career development?
- Yes, advancement to supervisory roles or specialization within cleaning is possible.
- What benefits are common?
- Common benefits include overtime pay, wellness allowances, and sometimes discounted travel.
