Host, port

What does a harbor host do? – Tasks and work environment

A harbor host is responsible for coordinating and facilitating the arrival, departure, and stay of ships, crews, and passengers within the port area. The role includes both administrative and practical tasks, such as receiving ships, handling documentation, coordinating logistics, and acting as a contact person for authorities, shipping companies, and other port actors. The work environment is often dynamic, switching between office work and fieldwork on the quay, requiring flexibility and good communication skills. Safety procedures and collaboration with various professional groups are central elements of daily work, and working hours may vary depending on ship schedules.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for a harbor host has shown a steady upward trend. In 2022, the average salary was 37,100 SEK per month, increasing to 39 000 SEK in 2023 and further to 40 200 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of approximately 8.3% over the three-year period. The salary development is mainly driven by increased demand for logistics services within the shipping sector, higher educational and experience requirements, and general wage adjustments in the transport and logistics industry. Gender differences remain, although the gap has narrowed somewhat. The forecast indicates continued stability rather than significant salary increases in the future.

Harbor host salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 40 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 37,400 SEK/month (female, private sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 42,400 SEK/month (male, public sector, post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 242 SEK/hour (hourly employee, average 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Women earn 94% of men's salaries (men 40 900 SEK, women 38 400 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on port size and region, with somewhat higher levels in metropolitan areas and larger ports.

Education and qualifications

To work as a harbor host, a high school education in transport, logistics, or technology is usually required, preferably supplemented with post-secondary courses or vocational training. Practical experience from port operations, shipping, or logistics is often advantageous and can be decisive in recruitment. Some employers also require specific certificates or safety training depending on the tasks.

• High school education: Transport, technology, or logistics (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: Vocational college or equivalent (1–2 years) can be beneficial
• Safety training: Examples include ISPS, fire safety, and first aid courses
• Practical training: On-the-job training or trainee programs in port environments
• Language skills: English and basic IT skills are often required

Common benefits and compensations

For a harbor host, benefits often include overtime pay for work during inconvenient hours, wellness allowances, occupational pension, and sometimes extra vacation days. Some employers also offer training initiatives and opportunities for skills development within logistics or safety. Access to work clothing, protective equipment, and staff cafeterias are also common.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a harbor host is moderate, with a relatively stable number of vacancies within the profession. Challenges often include handling unforeseen events, high tempo during peak traffic times, and maintaining safety in the port area. Digitalization and new logistics systems are changing work tasks and require continuous adaptation. Good communication between different actors is crucial, especially for international ship arrivals. The profession therefore requires both technical understanding and social skills to meet future demands.

Tips for those who want to become a harbor host

To succeed as a harbor host, it is good to be service-oriented and resilient to stress, as the work often involves contact with many people and quick adjustments. Developing good organizational skills makes it easier when several ships arrive simultaneously and logistics need to be coordinated. An interest in technology and digital systems is an asset, as work processes become increasingly automated. Flexibility and the ability to work independently and in teams are appreciated by employers. It is recommended to actively seek internships or summer jobs in port environments to build experience. Language skills, especially English, are often required and provide a competitive advantage. Finally, accuracy and safety awareness are important, as port work always involves responsibility for both people and cargo.

Key facts about harbor hosts

• Average salary: 40 200 SEK/month
• Salary range: 37,400–42,400 SEK/month
• Education level: High school or post-secondary education
• Typical work environment: Alternation between office and port area
• Demand: Moderate opportunities, 412 job openings within the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years in the profession, a harbor host can advance to roles such as transportation manager, port operations manager, or take responsibility for larger logistics projects. Further education can also open pathways to specialized services within maritime administration or port security. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts for transport managers and logistics coordinators, opportunities are moderate and the recruitment situation is balanced. Over five years, demand is expected to remain unchanged, meaning the job market will stay stable but not grow significantly. Digitalization and environmental requirements may create new specialized roles within port operations in the future.

Frequently asked questions about harbor hosts

• What does a harbor host earn?
  - The average salary is 40 200 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of approximately 242 SEK for hourly employees.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 38 400 SEK while men earn 40 900 SEK, which means women have 94% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a harbor host?
  - High school education in transport, technology, or logistics is required, often supplemented with courses or practical training.
• What is the job market like for harbor hosts?
  - Opportunities are moderate, with currently 412 job openings in the profession.
• What are the most common tasks?
  - Coordination of ship arrivals, documentation handling, logistics planning, and contact with crews and authorities.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries can be somewhat higher in larger ports and metropolitan regions compared to smaller towns.
• What career opportunities exist within the profession?
  - After a few years, one can advance to transportation manager, operations manager, or specialized roles within port logistics.