Assistant

What does a Biskötare do? – Tasks and work environment

A Biskötare is responsible for the care of beehives and apiaries, with tasks ranging from supervision and feeding of bees to honey harvesting, health checks of colonies, and disease management. The profession often involves physical outdoor work and requires precision and patience, especially during the busy spring and summer periods when colonies are most active. The work environment can vary from small-scale rural apiaries to larger commercial operations, and it is common to work both independently and in small teams. Since bees are sensitive to weather and environmental factors, a good understanding of natural cycles and ecological relationships is essential.

Salary development over time

The salary for a Biskötare has shown some variation over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 25,000 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 27 800 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has decreased to 26 300 SEK, representing a reduction of approximately 5.4% compared to the previous year. This trend can partly be explained by changes in demand for beekeeping products and variations in production levels. The market for honey and bee products is influenced by both national and international factors, causing salary levels to fluctuate annually. Despite these fluctuations, there remains a steady demand for skilled Biskötare, especially given the need for pollination in agriculture.

Biskötare salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 26 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,100 SEK/month (female, high school education)
• Highest salary: 28,000 SEK/month (female, post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 158 SEK
• Gender differences: Women: 26 300 SEK, men: 27,500 SEK (highest), 25,400 SEK (lowest)
• Regional differences: Data varies, but rural areas tend to offer more seasonal positions

Education and qualifications

Becoming a Biskötare usually does not require a formal university degree, but the industry values relevant high school education in agriculture or natural resource management. Many opt to supplement with shorter courses in beekeeping, often organized by beekeeping associations or folk high schools. Practical experience is highly important and is typically gained through internships, traineeships, or volunteer work with established beekeepers. A combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills is essential for success in the profession.

• High school education: Natural resource management or agriculture, 3 years
• Short courses and certificates: Beekeeping, 1–6 months
• Internships: Strongly recommended with established beekeepers
• Prerequisites: No formal requirements, but interest in biology and nature is an advantage
• Self-study: Possible via online courses and literature

Common benefits and compensations

Biskötare are often offered seasonal employment with the possibility of overtime pay during busy periods. Other common benefits include access to work clothing, some reimbursement for travel to the workplace, and sometimes staff discounts on honey and other bee products. In smaller operations, benefits may also include access to personal honey harvests or opportunities for further training in beekeeping.

Competition and challenges

Competition within the beekeeping profession is moderate, but the availability of permanent positions is limited as many jobs are seasonal. One of the biggest challenges is staying updated on diseases that can affect colonies and managing climate change impacts on pollination and honey production. The market for honey is also sensitive to price pressures from imported products. For those seeking full-time work, it is often necessary to combine beekeeping with other agricultural tasks or run their own business. Despite these challenges, there remains a stable need for knowledgeable Biskötare, especially in rural areas where pollination is crucial for agriculture.

Tips for aspiring Biskötare

To succeed as a Biskötare, it is beneficial to have a genuine interest in nature and animals, along with a good eye for detail. Developing patience is crucial, as the work requires careful observation of bee behavior and long-term planning for colony development. Practical experience, such as internships or volunteer work, provides valuable insights into everyday work. Being flexible during peak seasons and prepared for physical work in various weather conditions is also important. Curiosity and a willingness to learn about new methods and disease management can significantly impact production and colony health. Collaboration skills are valuable when working in teams or with other beekeepers, and accuracy facilitates handling both bees and equipment. Finally, maintaining a positive attitude helps manage the challenges that may arise in daily work.

Key facts about Biskötare

• Education level: High school diploma in natural resource management or agriculture
• Work environment: Outdoor-based, often independent work
• Typical employment: Seasonal employment or self-employment
• Demand: 360 job openings within the profession
• Special skills: Beekeeping, disease management, ecological understanding

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a Biskötare, there are opportunities to take on greater responsibility within beekeeping operations, such as team leader or advisor roles. Some choose to start their own business and develop products like honey, beeswax, or propolis. Increased awareness of the importance of pollination in agriculture has led to steady demand for the profession, confirmed by the 360 job openings identified in official labor market statistics. The outlook suggests that the need for Biskötare will remain stable, especially as sustainability issues gain more attention and the role of pollination in food production is emphasized. Opportunities for further education in agronomy or specialization in disease control are available for those wishing to advance further in the field.

Frequently asked questions about Biskötare

• What does a Biskötare earn?
  - The average salary for a Biskötare is 26 300 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 158 SEK.
• What education is required to become a Biskötare?
  - Usually, high school education in natural resource management or agriculture, along with courses in beekeeping.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women have an average salary of 26 300 SEK. The highest salary for women is 28,000 SEK and for men 27,500 SEK.
• What are the future prospects for Biskötare?
  - Demand remains stable with 360 job openings, especially in rural areas.
• What tasks does a Biskötare perform?
  - Tasks include supervising beehives, honey harvesting, disease management, and maintaining colonies.
• Are there opportunities for further education?
  - Yes, courses and further training in beekeeping and agronomy are available for those who want to develop further.