Harvesting machine operator

What does a Harvesting Machine Operator do?

As a Harvesting Machine Operator, you primarily work in forestry, felling trees and transporting timber. Job tasks include operating advanced machines such as harvesters and forwarders, which require both precision and technical skill. The work is often performed in forest environments, which demands good physical condition and the ability to work outdoors under varying weather conditions. It is also important to understand and strictly follow safety regulations to minimize risks in this physically demanding profession.

Harvesting Machine Operator salary

The average salary for a Harvesting Machine Operator is 32 900 SEK per month. Men earn an average of 33 100 SEK, while we lack specific salary information for women in this profession. The hourly wage for a part-time employee is approximately 189 SEK, based on 166 working hours per month.

Salary development over time

We see a positive salary development for Harvesting Machine Operators. Last year, the average salary was 31 500 SEK, which means an increase of 1,100 SEK to this year's 32 900 SEK.

Education and qualifications

To become a Harvesting Machine Operator, a high school education in natural resource management with a focus on forestry is usually required. There are also adult education programs and vocational college courses that offer specialization in forest machine operator training. Practical experience and a driver's license for forest machines are often a requirement.

Common benefits

Benefits may vary depending on the employer, but it is common for Harvesting Machine Operators to be offered work clothing and protective equipment. Some companies also provide further education and skills development as part of the employment.

Competition and challenges

According to the Public Employment Service, there are great job opportunities for operators of agricultural and forestry machines. However, the profession is characterized by a paradoxical recruitment situation where it is difficult to find qualified labor, while many leave the profession. Demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.

Tips for those who want to become a Harvesting Machine Operator

• Educate yourself in natural resource management with a focus on forestry.
• Try to gain practical experience through internships or summer jobs.
• Stay updated with the latest technology in forest machines.
• Build a network within the forestry industry to increase your job opportunities.

Career paths

After a few years of experience as a Harvesting Machine Operator, one can advance to leadership roles such as team leader or production manager within the forestry sector. There are also opportunities to specialize in specific machines or techniques, or to start one's own business in forestry contracting.

Future prospects and demand

Nationally, the job opportunities for operators of agricultural and forestry machines are considered to be significant. In the next five years, demand is expected to remain unchanged, which means stable future prospects for the profession.

Frequently asked questions about Harvesting Machine Operators

• What does a Harvesting Machine Operator earn? A Harvesting Machine Operator earns an average of 32 900 SEK per month.
• How do you become a Harvesting Machine Operator? By educating oneself in natural resource management with a focus on forestry, as well as gaining practical experience.
• Is it easy to get a job? Yes, according to the Public Employment Service, there are great job opportunities.
• Is it stressful to work as a Harvesting Machine Operator? The work can be physically demanding and sometimes stressful, especially during intensive work periods.
• What qualities are important as a Harvesting Machine Operator? Good physical condition, technical skill, and the ability to work in a team are important qualities.