Caretaker, school

What does a school janitor do? – Tasks and work environment

A school janitor is responsible for ensuring the daily operation of the school's facilities and outdoor environment runs smoothly. Tasks can vary from simple property maintenance, such as repairs and inventory upkeep, to handling technical equipment, caring for green spaces, and assisting during school events. It is common for janitors to act as problem-solvers in urgent situations and to order materials and services. The work environment involves close cooperation with school staff, students, and sometimes parents, requiring service-mindedness and flexibility. The work takes place both indoors and outdoors and may involve physically demanding tasks at times.

Salary development over time

The salary for school janitors has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,300 SEK per month, increasing to 31 000 SEK in 2023 and further to 32 400 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of approximately 7% over the period. The rise can be linked to increased demand for service personnel within the education sector, as well as general salary adjustments in the public sector. Despite this positive trend, the janitor profession remains relatively stable with consistent salary increases and minor regional differences. The salary growth also reflects a certain professionalization of the role, where broader technical knowledge and responsibilities are valued skills.

School janitor salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 32 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 22,600 SEK/month (female, privately employed, unknown education)
• Highest salary: 38,800 SEK/month (male, privately employed, postgraduate education)
• Hourly wage: 195 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 31 900 SEK/month, men 32 500 SEK/month (women 98% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Small, as salaries are mainly governed by collective agreements and employers

Education and qualifications

To work as a school janitor, no formal higher education is required, but high school education within practical programs such as property maintenance, technology, or related fields is advantageous. Practical experience, technical understanding, and good service skills are important qualifications. Many employers view certifications or courses in property services and work environment positively, and it is common to start as a janitor assistant to gain experience.

• High school education: Practical programs, e.g., property, construction, or electrical (3 years)
• Certifications: Courses in property maintenance, fire safety, work environment
• Internship: Very common to have practical training or trainee positions
• Prerequisites: Good physical ability, technical understanding, proficiency in Swedish (spoken and written)
• Further education: Possible through vocational training and online courses

Common benefits and compensations

School janitors are often covered by collective agreements that provide benefits such as pension schemes, wellness allowances, extra vacation days, and compensation for unsocial hours. In some cases, work clothes, subsidized lunches, or opportunities for skill development through the employer are included.

Challenges and competition

The profession of school janitor belongs to the property care group, where competition for jobs nationally is considered high, and the recruitment situation is characterized by an oversupply of applicants. This means there are more applicants than available positions, which can make it harder to establish oneself in the job market. At the same time, broad competence and the ability to handle many different tasks, often under time pressure, are required. Challenges in the role can also involve quickly solving problems and maintaining good communication with school staff and students. Over the next five years, demand for school janitors is expected to remain unchanged, indicating a stable but competitive job market.

Tips for aspiring school janitors

To succeed as a school janitor, it is good to be service-minded and able to meet both students and staff with patience and respect. A practical and solution-oriented attitude is a great asset, especially when unexpected problems need to be handled quickly. Attention to detail and responsibility make it easier to keep track of school inventories and maintenance needs. Technical interest facilitates learning new systems and machinery, which is often necessary in modern school environments. Being flexible and adaptable is important, as tasks can vary from day to day. Good teamwork and communication skills are also crucial for smooth collaboration within the school team. Finally, ongoing further training in areas such as property services and safety is valuable.

Key facts about School Janitors

• Salary range: 22,600–38,800 SEK/month
• Average salary: 32 400 SEK/month
• Education level: High school diploma, often with practical focus
• Work arrangement: Usually full-time, daytime, both indoors and outdoors
• Demand: Limited opportunities, oversupply of applicants

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a school janitor, there are opportunities to advance to leadership roles such as supervisor or property manager within the education sector or other public services. Some choose to further their education in property economics or technical management to broaden their career options. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the demand for janitors is generally unchanged over the next five years, and the job market is characterized by an oversupply of applicants. Nevertheless, there are approximately 481 available jobs within the property care group, indicating some mobility and employment opportunities for the right skills.

Frequently asked questions about School Janitors

• What does a school janitor earn?
  - A school janitor has an average salary of 32 400 SEK per month, with a range from 22,600 SEK to 38,800 SEK.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn an average of 32 500 SEK and women 31 900 SEK, which means women earn 98% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a school janitor?
  - High school education, often within practical programs, along with practical experience, is usually required.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The job market has limited opportunities with a surplus of applicants, but some vacancies exist.
• What are the job responsibilities?
  - Maintenance of school premises, repairs, technical service, and supporting staff and students.
• What benefits are common?
  - Pension schemes, wellness benefits, extra vacation days, and sometimes subsidized lunch or work clothes.
• Are there opportunities for further training?
  - Yes, through vocational courses, online training, and specialized certifications in property maintenance and safety.