Replacement, animal care

What does a substitute in animal care do? – Tasks and work environment

A substitute in animal care works temporarily taking over the care of farm animals when regular staff are absent, for example due to illness or vacation. Tasks include daily animal care, feeding, milking, cleaning stables, and monitoring animal health. The work is often on farms with cows, pigs, or sheep and can involve physically demanding tasks and responsibility for modern machinery and technology. The work environment is varied, involving indoor and outdoor work, often early mornings, weekends, and sometimes nights. Safety, precision, and good animal handling are central parts of the profession.

Salary development over time

The salary for substitutes in animal care has shown moderate but steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 27,200 SEK per month, while in 2023 and 2024 it increased to 28 400. This represents an increase of about 4.4% over three years. After a clearer rise between 2022 and 2023, the salary has remained unchanged, indicating a period of stabilization. Salary development is influenced by factors such as labor market demand, availability of trained personnel, and changes within the agricultural sector. Since recruitment needs remain high and many work part-time, salaries can be affected by regional demand and personal qualifications.

Substitute in animal care salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 28 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,000 SEK/month (female, private sector, high school education 3 years)
• Highest salary: 32,500 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage: 171 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Women earn 94% of what men do (women 27 800 SEK, men 29,700 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on geographical area and employer

Education and qualifications

Most substitutes in animal care have a high school education with a focus on natural resource management or agriculture. Practical experience is highly valued, as the work requires both theoretical knowledge of animal husbandry and the ability to handle everyday challenges on the farm. There are also opportunities to supplement with short courses or certifications that enhance skills in animal health and safety. Formal requirements vary between employers, but an interest in animals and good physical condition are always important prerequisites.

• High school education: Natural Resource Program, 3 years
• Practical training: Often mandatory within the education
• Courses/certificates: Animal handling, disease control, machinery safety
• Experience: Practical experience from farming or animal care is highly valued
• Prerequisites: Interest in animals and good physical ability

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for substitutes in animal care include per diem allowances when working elsewhere, work clothing, wellness contributions, and sometimes access to staff housing. Some employers also offer further training opportunities and extra compensation for unsociable hours. The extent of benefits varies depending on the employer and region.

Competition and challenges

The profession as a substitute in animal care is characterized by relatively low competition for jobs, as there are large opportunities nationwide and continued stable demand. At the same time, challenges related to physical demands, irregular working hours, and the need for high flexibility exist. Recruitment difficulties occur, especially since many choose to work part-time. Technological changes and increased requirements for animal welfare make skill development increasingly important to maintain attractiveness in the labor market.

Tips for those wanting to become a substitute in animal care

To succeed as a substitute in animal care, it is good to be flexible and able to adapt quickly to new work environments and routines. Having a strong sense of responsibility is crucial, as animal well-being is always the top priority. Good teamwork skills facilitate working with others, but it is also important to work independently and take initiative. Physical endurance and precision are important qualities, especially when shifts can be long and tasks varied. A genuine interest in animals and a willingness to learn new things are also valuable, as the profession develops with technology and new demands. For those seeking career advancement, building on experience with courses and certifications that strengthen competence is recommended.

Key facts about Substitutes in animal care

• Education level: High school (natural resource management/agriculture)
• Work environment: Farms and agricultural settings, both indoors and outdoors
• Demand: Large opportunities for employment nationwide
• Work form: Often part-time or temporary employment
• Special skills: Animal handling, machinery safety, disease control

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a substitute in animal care, experience and further education can lead to more specialized roles, such as farm supervisor, animal health worker, or advisor in animal husbandry. Some choose to further train as operations managers or start their own business in agricultural services. The Employment Service’s forecasts show that job opportunities within breeders and caretakers of farm animals are substantial, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. The recruitment situation is characterized by difficulties in finding personnel, especially for full-time positions, which means that those with the right skills have good career prospects.

Frequently asked questions about Substitutes in animal care

• What does a substitute in animal care earn?
  - The average salary for a substitute in animal care is 28 400 SEK per month.
• Are there differences between men and women in salary?
  - Yes, women earn on average 94% of what men do.
• What education is required to become a substitute in animal care?
  - High school education in natural resource management or agriculture is recommended, preferably with practical training.
• What is the job market like for substitutes in animal care?
  - Opportunities for employment are plentiful, and demand is expected to remain unchanged in the coming years.
• What are the working hours for substitutes in animal care?
  - Work often involves early mornings, weekends, and sometimes nights depending on animal needs.
• Is there potential for career development?
  - Yes, with experience and further education, one can advance to roles such as supervisor or operations manager.
• What is the highest and lowest salary within the profession?
  - The highest salary is 32,500 SEK and the lowest is 27,000 SEK per month.