Ventilation cleaner

What does a ventilation cleaner do? – Tasks and work environment

A ventilation cleaner is responsible for cleaning, maintenance, and sanitation of ventilation systems in everything from residential buildings to industries and public facilities. The work often involves removing dust, mold, grease, and other contaminants that can affect indoor air quality and fire safety. Sanitation tasks can be both preventive and emergency, such as in cases of suspected poor air quality or after a fire. Ventilation cleaners often work in teams and need to handle machinery and chemicals, sometimes in cramped or hard-to-reach spaces. The work environment is varied and can involve day or evening shifts, often at heights or in buildings that are operational.

Salary development over time

The profession of ventilation cleaner has shown a clear positive salary development over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 29,700 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 31 800 in 2023. Between 2023 and 2024, the average salary increased further to 35 000, representing a total increase of approximately 18% over three years. This rise can largely be explained by increased demand for the profession, especially as new and older properties require improved indoor environments and compliance with environmental standards. Employers in the industry have also needed to raise wages to retain and attract skilled workers, particularly in metropolitan areas where competition for labor is intense.

Ventilation cleaner salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 35 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,900 SEK/month (female, high school education, 3 years)
• Highest salary: 35,600 SEK/month (male, regional sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage (average): 210 SEK
• Women: 32,000 SEK/month (90% of men's salary)
• Men: 35 500 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Highest wages in regional sector, variation depending on location and sector

Education and qualifications

To work as a ventilation cleaner, a high school diploma is usually required, preferably with a focus on property, technology, or construction. Many employers offer internal training and apprenticeships, but some tasks may require specific certifications, such as working at heights or handling certain chemicals. Practical skills and good physical condition are important, as well as the ability to work systematically and follow safety procedures.

• High school diploma: Focus on construction, technology, or property, 2–3 years
• Certificates: Working at heights, hot work, possibly asbestos handling
• Practical training: Often part of education or as a trainee/introduction
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition, technical interest, thoroughness
• Further education: Opportunities for specialized courses and certifications in ventilation and sanitation

Common benefits and compensations

Many ventilation cleaners are covered by collective agreements that provide overtime pay, night shift premiums, and extra leave for inconvenient working hours. Other common benefits include wellness allowances, work clothing and protective equipment, and opportunities for further training at the employer's expense. Some companies also offer bonuses linked to projects or performance.

Market competition and challenges

The market for ventilation cleaners is stable but relatively specialized. Competition for jobs varies by region, with larger cities and growth areas often having higher demand than smaller towns. A challenge for the profession is that the work environment can be physically demanding and involve exposure to dust and chemicals, which requires high safety standards and protective measures. Technological changes and increased demands for energy efficiency also mean that the role is continuously evolving, increasing the need for ongoing training. Access to internships and introductory jobs can influence recruitment into the profession.

Tips for those who want to become ventilation cleaners

To succeed as a ventilation cleaner, it is helpful to have good physical ability, as the work is often physically demanding and involves working in tight or hard-to-reach spaces. Being thorough and detail-oriented is important, as poor sanitation can have consequences for health and safety. Communication skills are an asset since collaboration with colleagues and sometimes clients is part of the daily work. Showing technical interest is also valuable, as modern ventilation systems can be advanced and require understanding various technical solutions. Last but not least, flexibility and adaptability are beneficial, as tasks and environments can vary greatly from day to day.

Key facts about ventilation cleaners

• Average salary: 35 000 SEK/month
• Salary range: 30,900–35,600 SEK/month
• Gender difference: Women earn 90% of what men do
• Education requirements: High school diploma, certificates may be required
• Available jobs: 123 within the profession (May 2024)

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years of experience, a ventilation cleaner can take on more advanced assignments, become a supervisor, or specialize in areas such as environmental and energy sanitation. There are also opportunities to further train as a technician, inspector, or occupational safety coordinator. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate no exact assessment for ventilation cleaners, but within the sanitation worker group, there are currently 123 available jobs, suggesting stable demand. The industry is influenced by environmental standards and technological development, which can create new career opportunities for those wishing to advance.

Frequently asked questions about ventilation cleaners

• What is the average salary of a ventilation cleaner?
  - The average salary is 35 000 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 32,000 SEK while men earn 35 500 SEK.
• What education is required to become a ventilation cleaner?
  - Usually, a high school diploma with a focus on construction or technology, and sometimes certificates for specific tasks.
• What does the job market look like for ventilation cleaners?
  - Currently, there are 123 available jobs within the profession, indicating good opportunities.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for ventilation cleaners?
  - The highest salary is 35,600 SEK (male, regional sector), and the lowest is 30,900 SEK (female, high school education, 3 years).
• What occupational health risks are present in the profession?
  - The work environment may involve exposure to dust, chemicals, and working at heights, requiring protective equipment and safety routines.
• Can one further education within the profession?
  - Yes, there are opportunities for further training and specialization in sanitation and ventilation.