Construction worker, garden

What does a landscaping worker in gardening do? – Tasks and work environment

A landscaping worker in gardening is responsible for creating, maintaining, and developing outdoor environments such as parks, gardens, residential areas, and public green spaces. Tasks include land preparation, planting, paving walkways, laying stones, mowing lawns, and caring for shrubs and trees. The profession often involves physical outdoor work in varying weather conditions, and the work environment can be both solitary and team-based. Modern machinery is frequently used for heavier tasks, but good manual skills and attention to detail are also required in daily work.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for gardening landscaping workers has shown steady growth. In 2022, the average salary was 29,100 SEK per month, rising to 30 500 SEK in 2023 and further to 30 800 SEK in 2024. This increase corresponds to a salary improvement of about 6% over the period. The rise is mainly due to higher demand for well-maintained outdoor environments in both public and private sectors, as well as general salary adjustments in the industry. Despite the positive trend, the rate of salary increase is somewhat lower than in some other trades, reflecting competition and the relatively high availability of labor.

Landscaping worker, garden work 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, high school education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage: 185 SEK
• Women: 29 900 SEK/month (96% of men's salary)
• Men: 31 200 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and employer, but no specific regional statistics are available.

Education and qualifications

To work as a landscaping worker in gardening, a high school education in gardening or land and construction is usually required. Practical experience is highly valued, and many employers prefer applicants with both education and work experience. Some tasks may require specific certificates, such as machine operation or plant protection. Opportunities for further education and specialization are available for those who wish to develop within the profession.

• Education: High school education in gardening or land/landscaping (3 years)
• Certificates: Machine operator certificates and plant protection training may be required
• Practical training: On-the-job training is common during education
• Prerequisites: Basic high school eligibility
• Courses: Opportunities to supplement with shorter courses in pruning, paving, and plant knowledge

Common benefits and compensations

Landscaping workers in gardening are often offered benefits such as holiday pay, overtime pay for work during unsociable hours, and sometimes wellness allowances. Company pension, work clothing, and tools are usually included in employment, and some employers also offer training and skills development as part of the benefits.

Competition and challenges

The profession as a gardening landscaping worker is characterized by relatively high competition for jobs, as there is a national surplus of labor in the field. Forecasts from the Employment Service show that job opportunities are expected to be limited over the next five years, with demand remaining unchanged in the long term. Challenges include seasonal variations, which can mean periods of lower employment during winter, and the need for broad skills in plant knowledge and machinery use. At the same time, the profession offers good opportunities for those willing to specialize or pursue further education.

Tips for those wanting to become a gardening landscaping worker

To succeed as a gardening landscaping worker, it is good to combine practical problem-solving skills with a genuine interest in outdoor environments and plants. Precision is crucial in planting and construction, while physical endurance is needed to handle the heavy and varied tasks. Teamwork skills are important as much of the work is done in teams, and a positive attitude towards outdoor work in all seasons is a great asset. It is wise to seek internships early to build experience and networks, and to stay updated on new techniques and materials in the industry. Taking initiative and showing responsibility can quickly open doors to more advanced tasks and increased career opportunities.

Key facts about landscaping workers in gardening

• Education level: High school education in gardening or landscaping
• Work environment: Outdoor work in varying weather and terrain
• Work form: Often seasonal, both independently and in teams
• Demand: Limited job opportunities, surplus of labor
• Job openings: 360 within the gardening landscape industry

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years of experience, a landscaping worker in gardening can advance to supervisory roles, become site manager, or specialize in areas such as paving, pruning, or machine operation. Some choose to start their own gardening business or broaden their skills towards project planning and design. According to forecasts from the Employment Service, the job market remains competitive, with limited opportunities and an oversupply of trained personnel. Demand is expected to remain unchanged over five years, so those aiming for long-term establishment in the industry should consider further training or specialization to enhance their competitiveness.

Frequently asked questions about landscaping workers in gardening

• What does a landscaping worker, garden work, earn?
  - The average salary is 30 800 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, gender, and employer.
• How has the salary development been for landscaping workers in gardening?
  - Salaries have increased from 29,100 SEK in 2022 to 30 800 SEK in 2024, which is about a 6% increase over three years.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 29 900 SEK while men earn 31 200 SEK, meaning women earn 96% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a landscaping worker, garden work?
  - High school education in gardening or land/landscaping is most common, often supplemented with practical training and certificates.
• What does the job market look like for landscaping workers in gardening?
  - Prognoses indicate a surplus of labor and limited job opportunities over the next five years.
• What is the hourly wage for a landscaping worker, garden work?
  - The average hourly wage is 185 SEK.
• What career opportunities are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Opportunities include advancing to supervisory roles, specializing, or starting your own business.