Caretaker, church

What does a church caretaker do? – Tasks and work environment

A church caretaker is responsible for the daily operation and maintenance of the church's properties, facilities, and surrounding outdoor areas. Tasks include building maintenance, simple repairs, gardening, and preparations for services and other events. In many cases, responsibilities also include managing sound and lighting technology, security, fire safety, and contact with suppliers and contractors. The work environment is often varied, involving both indoor and outdoor work, requiring flexibility and the ability to handle both independent and collaborative tasks. Contact with congregation members and visitors is a natural part of the role and demands service-mindedness and discretion.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for church caretakers has steadily increased. In 2022, the average salary was 30,300 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 31 000 SEK in 2023, and further up to 32 400 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total salary increase of just over 7% during the period. The trend reflects a somewhat increased demand for the professional skills as well as adjustments in collective agreements and the impact of inflation. Gender differences remain, with women earning 98% of men's salaries, and regional variations can also influence individual salary development. Despite an oversupply of labor within the profession, wages continue to rise, indicating that experience and specialized skills are highly valued.

Church caretaker salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 32 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 22,600 SEK/month (female), 26,500 SEK/month (male)
• Highest salary: 37,900 SEK/month (female), 38,800 SEK/month (male)
• Hourly wage: 195 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 31 900 SEK, men 32 500 SEK (98%)
• Regional differences: Data unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a church caretaker, a high school diploma is usually required, preferably with a focus on property management, technology, or gardening. Practical experience and personal qualities are often highly valued, and many employers offer internal orientation or further training. For some positions, specific courses or certificates in areas such as security, fire safety, or machinery operation may be advantageous.

• High school education: Construction, technology, or property management (3 years)
• Vocational courses: Property maintenance, gardening, fire safety
• Internship: Practical experience from similar work is often meritorious
• Certificates: Machinery operator licenses, hot work permits, or similar may be required
• Personal qualities: Service-mindedness, responsibility, teamwork skills

Common benefits and compensations

Church caretakers are often covered by collective agreements that include occupational pension, vacation pay, and sometimes wellness contributions. Work clothing and tools are usually provided by the employer. Other common benefits may include flexitime, skill development, and compensation for standby or unsocial hours during special occasions.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a church caretaker is currently relatively high, with a national surplus of qualified applicants within the property maintenance profession. The Employment Service's forecasts indicate limited opportunities for work and unchanged demand in the coming years. Challenges often involve meeting the varied requirements of the role, such as technical competence, service attitude, and flexibility. Seasonal variations and irregular working hours during holidays and events can also affect workload. The ability to work independently and handle many tasks simultaneously is crucial for success in the profession.

Tips for those wishing to become a church caretaker

To succeed as a church caretaker, it is beneficial to be practically inclined and service-oriented. Showing engagement and responsibility in both small and large tasks often builds trust with employers and the congregation. Good teamwork skills are important, as the work involves close contact with colleagues and visitors at various events. Flexibility and adaptability to changing tasks and schedules, especially during holidays or special occasions, are also valuable. Keeping up with courses in property management or safety can provide a competitive edge. Attention to detail and the ability to see the bigger picture contribute to a safe and well-functioning environment both indoors and outdoors. Finally, it is important to show respect and discretion, as the work often takes place in sensitive contexts such as baptisms, weddings, and funerals.

Key facts about church caretakers

• Average salary: 32 400 SEK/month
• Salary range: 22,600–38,800 SEK/month
• Gender difference: Women earn 98 % of men's salaries
• Hourly wage: 195 SEK
• Job market: 481 available jobs, limited opportunities nationally

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a church caretaker, there are opportunities to advance to more specialized roles within property management, such as supervisor, property technician, or property manager. Some choose to further their education in security, fire safety, or gardening to broaden their skills. The Employment Service estimates that demand for property maintenance professionals will remain unchanged over the next five years, with limited job opportunities and a national surplus of applicants. However, regional variations and temporary needs, especially due to retirements or major projects, do occur. The profession provides a stable foundation for further careers in property management or technical maintenance. (Source: Arbetsförmedlingen)

Frequently asked questions about church caretakers

• What does a church caretaker earn?
  - The average salary is 32 400 SEK per month, with a range between 22,600 and 38,800 SEK depending on experience, gender, and education.
• How do salary differences between women and men look?
  - Women earn on average 31 900 SEK, which is 98% of men's salary at 32 500 SEK.
• Is special education required to become a church caretaker?
  - High school education in technology or property management is common, but practical experience often weighs heavily.
• What tasks are included in the profession?
  - Maintenance of property, repairs, gardening, and preparations for services and events.
• What is the job market like for church caretakers?
  - Opportunities are considered limited nationally, but there are 481 available jobs within the profession.
• What benefits are common?
  - Occupational pension, wellness contributions, work clothing, and opportunities for skill development are common.
• Are there opportunities for advancement?
  - Yes, experienced caretakers can advance to supervisory roles or further educate themselves as property technicians.