Felling leader

What does a harvesting supervisor do? – Tasks and work environment

A harvesting supervisor is responsible for planning, leading, and following up on forest harvesting activities. The role involves coordinating work teams, machine operators, and contractors to ensure that harvesting is carried out efficiently, safely, and in accordance with laws and environmental regulations. Tasks also include contact with landowners, authorities, and sometimes certification bodies. Harvesting supervisors work mostly outdoors in forest environments, often under varying weather conditions, and require good physical endurance as well as the ability to make quick decisions when situations change in the field.

Salary development over time

The salary for harvesting supervisors has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 40,100 SEK per month, increasing to 41 600 SEK in 2023 and further to 43 100 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of just over 7% over three years, slightly above the average for similar specialist professions within forestry. Factors driving this salary development include increased demand for forestry skills, higher sustainability and certification requirements, and increasing complexity in forest management. Regional differences may exist, but the general trend is rising wages in line with increasing skill requirements and competition for qualified labor.

Harvesting supervisor salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 43 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,000 SEK/month (female, private sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 48,300 SEK/month (male, public sector, postgraduate degree)
• Hourly wage (average): 259 SEK
• Women: 42 200 SEK/month (97% of men's salary)
• Men: 43 400 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on region and employer, but generally levels are close to the national average.

Education and qualifications

To work as a harvesting supervisor, post-secondary education in forestry is usually required, often at university or through qualified vocational training. Practical experience in forestry work is highly meritorious, as well as knowledge of machinery, environmental legislation, and work management. Many employers also prefer candidates who have completed certification courses in sustainable forestry or occupational health and safety.

• Forestry degree (3 years, university or YH)
• Certifications such as PEFC/FSC or occupational health and safety
• Internship or trainee position within forestry companies
• High school education with a forestry specialization can be a pathway in
• Leadership and project management courses are recommended

Common benefits and compensations

Typical benefits for harvesting supervisors include company cars or car allowances, wellness contributions, work clothing, and sometimes access to modern digital tools and technical equipment. In some cases, insurance coverage, extra vacation days, or pension contributions beyond statutory requirements are also offered.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a harvesting supervisor is considered moderate, with a stable but not saturated job market. One of the biggest challenges is staying updated on regulations, certification requirements, and new technology within forestry. The work is often physically demanding and involves responsibility for both occupational health and safety and production, requiring strong leadership and communication skills. Limited data makes it difficult to give an exact forecast, but the number of available positions in the profession is currently relatively high, indicating good employment opportunities for the right skills.

Tips for aspiring harvesting supervisors

To succeed as a harvesting supervisor, it is beneficial to combine technical understanding with leadership skills and a strong sense of responsibility. Gaining experience through internships or seasonal work in forestry provides insight and contacts, while also developing problem-solving abilities—an essential trait in unpredictable situations. Continuing education, such as in environmental certification or occupational health and safety, enhances competitiveness and demonstrates commitment. Precision and structure facilitate planning and follow-up of harvesting projects, while good communication is crucial for leading work teams and collaborating with landowners. Flexibility and a genuine interest in nature also help to thrive in a profession where the work environment constantly changes.

Key facts about harvesting supervisors

• Average salary: 43 100 SEK/month
• Education level: Forestry degree or equivalent (3 years)
• Work environment: Field-based, often outdoors in varying weather
• Gender salary gap: Women earn 97% of men's salary
• Job openings in the profession: 360

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a harvesting supervisor, it is common to advance to more senior leadership roles, such as regional manager, production manager, or advisor within larger forestry companies. Specializations in environmental and certification issues, machinery technology, or digital forest management are also potential career paths. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, no precise assessment is made for this specific role due to limited data, but the broader profession has good demand with 360 job openings registered. The move towards sustainable and technology-oriented forestry is expected to increase the need for qualified harvesting supervisors in the future.

Frequently asked questions about harvesting supervisors

• What does a harvesting supervisor earn?
  - A harvesting supervisor has an average salary of 43 100 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development been for harvesting supervisors?
  - The salary has increased from 40,100 SEK in 2022 to 43 100 SEK in 2024, an increase of just over 7%.
• What education is required to become a harvesting supervisor?
  - Usually, a forestry degree or equivalent post-secondary education within forestry.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 42 200 SEK while men earn 43 400 SEK.
• What are the job responsibilities of a harvesting supervisor?
  - Planning, leading, and following up on forest harvesting activities, as well as supervising work teams and liaising with landowners.
• What is the job market outlook for harvesting supervisors?
  - Currently, there are 360 job openings in the profession, indicating good opportunities for qualified candidates.
• What are common benefits in this profession?
  - Company cars, wellness contributions, and work clothing are common benefits for harvesting supervisors.