What does a swimming pool janitor do – tasks and work environment
A swimming pool janitor is responsible for a range of practical and technical tasks to ensure that swimming pools, water parks, and other water facilities operate safely and efficiently. Tasks may include daily pool inspections, water quality control and maintenance, cleaning common areas, and managing machinery and technical equipment. The janitor also handles minor repairs, reports issues, and may assist with customer contact or support staff during larger events. The work environment is often humid, noisy, and requires constant vigilance regarding safety for visitors and staff.
Salary development over time
The salary for a swimming pool janitor has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,300 SEK per month, rising in 2023 to 31 000 SEK. In 2024, the average salary reached 32 400 SEK, representing an overall increase of about 7% over three years. This increase can largely be explained by general wage negotiations within property and service sectors, as well as increased focus on work environment and safety standards in water facilities. Despite some regional variation and differences between public and private employers, the wage development has been relatively consistent nationwide. The demand for the profession has not increased significantly, which may influence future salary trends.
Swimming Pool Janitor Salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 32 400 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 22,600 SEK/month (female, private employee, data unavailable)
- Highest salary: 38,800 SEK/month (male, private employee, with higher education)
- Hourly wage: 195 SEK/hour
- Gender differences: Women earn 98% of what men do (women 31 900 SEK, men 32 500 SEK)
- Regional differences: Salary variations may occur depending on location and employer
Education and qualifications
To work as a swimming pool janitor, a high school education is usually required, preferably with a focus on property maintenance, technology, or service. Many employers also value practical experience in technical maintenance or similar service roles. Industry-specific certifications, such as in pool technology, water treatment, or safety, can be advantageous and improve employment prospects.
- High school education: For example, VVS (Plumbing & HVAC) and Property Maintenance programs, 3 years
- Industry-specific courses: Courses in pool technology, water purification, or safety
- Internships: Work-based learning is common
- Certifications: Certification in handling chemicals and water quality is advantageous
- Prerequisites: Technical interest, problem-solving skills, and good physical condition
Many swimming pool janitors work with both technical tasks and customer contact, making the profession varied and social. The ability to quickly solve unexpected problems is often as important as machine knowledge.
Common benefits and compensations
Employment as a swimming pool janitor often includes collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, and paid training. Shift work may occur and is compensated with overtime pay. Some employers also provide work clothing, subsidized meals, and opportunities for skill development in technology or safety.
Competition and challenges
The job market for swimming pool janitors is characterized by a certain surplus of labor, meaning competition for positions can be high. According to the Employment Service, job opportunities are limited and expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Technological developments and increased demands on water quality and safety require higher skills and ongoing training. Physical strain, shift work, and rapid responses to emergencies are challenging aspects that demand endurance and initiative.
Tips for aspiring swimming pool janitors
To succeed as a swimming pool janitor, it’s beneficial to combine technical interest with service orientation and flexibility. A structured approach helps manage multiple tasks simultaneously, while good teamwork skills are crucial for collaboration with colleagues and visitors. Problem-solving ability and stress resilience are important during unexpected situations, such as technical failures or safety incidents. Being meticulous and responsible ensures that water quality and safety standards are maintained at the highest level. Finally, curiosity about new technology and continuous education are advantages, as the role evolves with new requirements and equipment.
Key facts about Swimming Pool Janitors
- Salary range: 22,600–38,800 SEK/month
- Average salary: 32 400 SEK/month
- Education level: High school education, often supplemented with courses
- Work environment: Humid, technically demanding, often shift-based
- Demand: Limited job opportunities, some competition
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a swimming pool janitor, there may be opportunities to advance to supervisory roles, such as operations manager or technical director for larger facilities. Some choose to specialize in pool technology, water treatment, or property maintenance, which can lead to more qualified positions. The forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that the job market for property maintenance workers—where swimming pool janitors are included—will remain unchanged in the coming years, with limited new job opportunities and a slight surplus of labor. However, retirements and increased technical expertise may create new openings for those willing to pursue further training and specialization in the industry.
Frequently asked questions about Swimming Pool Janitors
- What does a Swimming Pool Janitor earn?
- The average salary is 32 400 SEK per month, with a range between 22,600 SEK and 38,800 SEK.
- What education is required to become a swimming pool janitor?
- High school education in technology or property maintenance is recommended, supplemented with industry-specific courses.
- What is the work environment like for a swimming pool janitor?
- The environment is humid and technically demanding, often with shift work and high safety standards.
- Are there salary differences between women and men?
- Yes, women earn approximately 98% of what men do within the profession.
- What are the future prospects for swimming pool janitors?
- Job opportunities are limited and expected to remain unchanged according to the Employment Service.
- What is the highest and lowest salary for the profession?
- The highest salary is 38,800 SEK and the lowest 22,600 SEK per month, depending on education, experience, and employer.
- How many job openings are there for swimming pool janitors?
- Currently, there are 481 job openings in property maintenance.
