What does a cemetery caretaker do – job tasks and work environment
A cemetery caretaker is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the cemetery's green areas, gravesites, and technical equipment. Tasks include mowing, planting, pruning shrubs and trees, and simple repairs of tools and buildings. During certain periods, snow removal, leaf collection, and waste management may also be included. Contact with visitors and relatives is an important part, where service and respectful treatment are prioritized. The work environment is mainly outdoors and often involves physical work in varying weather conditions, with seasonal variations affecting workload and types of tasks.
Salary development over time
The salary for cemetery caretakers has increased gradually over recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 29,100 SEK per month, rising to 30 500 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary is 30 800 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 5.8 percent during the period. The development has been relatively stable and follows general trends within the public sector, where wages are adjusted in line with collective bargaining and inflation. Demand has remained unchanged, contributing to moderate rather than rapid salary growth. The gap between men and women persists, but the average difference is relatively small within the profession.
Cemetery caretaker salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 30 800 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 26,700 SEK/month (female, private sector employee)
- Highest salary: 34,600 SEK/month (female, municipal sector)
- Hourly wage: 185 SEK
- Gender pay gap: Women earn 96% of what men do (men 31 200 SEK, women 29 900 SEK)
- Regional differences: Specific data is lacking, but salary levels are often influenced by municipality size and region.
Education and qualifications
To work as a cemetery caretaker, no formal higher education is usually required, but high school education with a focus on gardening, property maintenance, or similar is advantageous. Practical experience and a driver's license are often essential, and employers view further training in machinery use or work environment positively. The profession suits individuals who enjoy varied and physical outdoor tasks and have a sense of service and respect.
- High school education: Focus on gardening, landscaping, and maintenance, 3 years
- Certifications: Courses in work environment, machinery safety, or chainsaw certification
- Internship: Workplace-based internship or trainee within park or property maintenance
- Pre-requisites: B driver's license and good physical ability
- Tips for selection: Engagement with outdoor environments and interest in people facilitate entry into the profession
Many cemetery caretakers develop a deep knowledge of local history and traditions over time, making them valuable resources during guided tours or when relatives seek information about gravesites.
Common benefits and compensations
Common benefits for cemetery caretakers include collective agreement-based occupational pension, wellness allowances, and opportunities for work clothing and protective equipment. Some employers also offer subsidized lunch, skills development, or extra vacation days. Compensation for unsociable hours may be provided during holidays or special events.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as cemetery caretakers is considered relatively high nationwide, due to an oversupply of applicants within the gardening and landscape sector. The number of available jobs is limited compared to the workforce, leading employers to often require significant experience and flexibility. Seasonal variations impact job availability, with some positions being temporary during the summer months. Physical strain, heavy lifting, and weather-dependent work pose challenges, while interacting with relatives requires empathy and respect. To improve job prospects, broad practical experience and strong social skills are advantageous.
Tips for those interested in becoming a cemetery caretaker
To succeed as a cemetery caretaker, attention to detail and precision are important, as tasks often require care for both the environment and gravesites. Good physical endurance is essential, as work can be physically demanding and outdoors in all weather. Flexibility helps when tasks vary with seasons and needs, and service-mindedness enables respectful interaction with relatives and visitors. Initiative and problem-solving skills are appreciated, especially for practical issues or improving routines. The ability to work independently, while collaborating with colleagues, is crucial in a varied environment that demands good communication.
Key facts about cemetery caretakers
- Salary range: 26,700–34,600 SEK/month
- Average salary: 30 800 SEK/month
- Education level: High school, often with a focus on gardening
- Work environment: Outdoors, physically demanding, seasonal variation
- Job opportunities: Limited, with a surplus of applicants nationwide
Career paths and future prospects
After a few years in the profession, a cemetery caretaker can develop into a supervisor, gardening manager, or undertake specialized tasks within machinery maintenance or project management for larger sites. Opportunities also exist to further train as a gardener or park administrator. According to the Employment Service's forecasts for the gardening sector, the job market is stable but with limited opportunities, and there is an oversupply of labor nationwide. The number of available positions is approximately 360 based on recent data, but competition remains high, and outlooks are expected to stay unchanged over the next five years.
Frequently asked questions about cemetery caretakers
- What does a cemetery caretaker earn?
- The average salary is 30 800 SEK per month, with a range between 26,700 and 34,600 SEK depending on experience, gender, and employer.
- What education is required to become a cemetery caretaker?
- High school education with a focus on gardening or property maintenance is most common, but practical experience and a driver's license are often just as important.
- Is there a salary difference between men and women?
- Yes, women earn on average 96% of what men do in this profession.
- What is the job market like for cemetery caretakers?
- There are limited opportunities and a surplus of applicants according to the Employment Service.
- What personal qualities are important?
- Attention to detail, physical endurance, service orientation, and flexibility are central qualities.
- What are the most common job tasks?
- Lawn mowing, planting, cemetery maintenance, simple repairs, and customer contact with relatives and visitors.
