Sheep herder

What does a sheep farmer do? – Tasks and work environment

A sheep farmer is responsible for the daily care of sheep and lambs on farms and rural properties. Tasks include feeding, watering, caring for barns and pastures, monitoring animal health, as well as assisting during lambing and other critical periods. Additional duties involve shearing, tagging, weighing, and sometimes basic veterinary procedures. The work environment is characterized by outdoor work year-round, often in changing weather, with physically demanding tasks such as heavy lifting and long working hours during lambing season. At the same time, the profession offers proximity to animals and nature, which many find rewarding.

Salary development over time

The salary for sheep farmers has shown steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 27,200 SEK per month, increasing to 28 400 SEK in 2023. This level has remained unchanged in 2024, representing an approximate increase of 4.4% from 2022 to 2023, followed by a stable level. The salary increase can partly be explained by increased demand for skilled workers in animal husbandry and inflation adjustments in the labor market. Despite some wage disparities between genders, the industry has shown some progress, but wage development remains slow and influenced by factors such as part-time work and seasonal variations. Regional differences exist, but national average levels remain stable.

Sheep farmer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 28 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,000 SEK (female, private sector, high school education, 3 years)
• Highest salary: 32,500 SEK (female, public sector, high school education, up to 2 years)
• Highest salary for men: 31,900 SEK
• Lowest salary for men: 29,700 SEK
• Hourly wage (average): 171 SEK
• Women earn: 27 800 SEK (94% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 29,700 SEK
• Regional differences: Present, but the national average is 28 400 SEK/month

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a sheep farmer usually goes through the natural resources program at high school, with specialization in agriculture or animal care. There are also opportunities to supplement with adult education or specialized courses in sheep management. Practical experience is highly valued, and many employers prefer new hires to have completed internships or work training on farms. Formal requirements may vary, but good knowledge of animal husbandry, animal health, and machinery use are essential for success in the profession.

• High school education: Natural resources program, with specialization in agriculture (3 years)
• Adult education: Komvux or YH courses with agricultural focus
• Internship: Work-based learning or farm internships
• Courses/certificates: Animal care, machinery licenses, and animal health
• Prerequisites: Interest and some experience in animal husbandry

Common benefits and compensations

Benefits for sheep farmers vary depending on the employer, but often include work clothing, wellness allowances, and sometimes opportunities for further training in animal husbandry. Some workplaces provide housing or transportation options in rural areas, especially during seasonal work. Compensation for inconvenient working hours may also be offered, particularly during intensive periods like lambing.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for sheep farmers is characterized by high demand nationwide, but paradoxically, many work part-time, and employers have difficulty finding full-time employees with the right skills. One of the biggest challenges is the physically demanding work and the need for broad knowledge in both animal husbandry and technology. Seasonal variations can lead to uneven workload and temporary employment. The profession often attracts individuals with a strong interest in animals, but flexibility and readiness for on-call work, especially during lambing, are also required.

Tips for those wanting to become sheep farmers

To succeed as a sheep farmer, it is good to have a genuine interest in animals and patience, as the work requires daily supervision and care. Good physical condition is helpful since tasks are often heavy and performed outdoors in all weather conditions. Curiosity and willingness to learn new technology are advantages, as digital tools are becoming more common in agriculture. Responsibility and thoroughness are crucial for animal welfare and preventing diseases or injuries in the herd. Good teamwork skills are appreciated, especially on larger farms where the team needs to work efficiently. Flexibility and preparedness to work inconvenient hours, such as during lambing season, are also important. Finally, a positive attitude towards problem-solving helps, as unexpected situations often arise in animal husbandry.

Key facts about Sheep Farmers

• Education level: High school (natural resources program or equivalent)
• Work environment: Outdoor-based, physically demanding
• Work form: Often part-time, seasonal variations occur
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide
• Special skills: Animal care, technical skills, machinery operation

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a sheep farmer can advance to more responsible roles, such as supervisor on larger farms or specialize in areas like breeding, animal health, or organic production. There are also opportunities to start their own sheep business or work as an advisor in the agricultural sector. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast for breeders and caretakers of farm animals, the job market is good, and opportunities are plentiful, even within five years. Demand is expected to remain unchanged, but the industry is seeking more full-time employees with the right skills. Currently, there are about 360 job openings in the profession, reflecting a strong market.

Frequently asked questions about Sheep Farmers

• What does a Sheep Farmer earn?
  - The average salary for a sheep farmer is 28 400 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of approximately 171 SEK.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 94% of what men do within the profession.
• What education is required to become a sheep farmer?
  - Usually, a high school education in the natural resources program or equivalent adult education.
• What is the work environment like for sheep farmers?
  - The work environment is often outdoor-based and physically demanding with varied tasks.
• What are the future prospects for sheep farmers?
  - Job opportunities are plentiful, and demand is expected to remain unchanged in the coming years.
• What is the highest salary for a sheep farmer?
  - The highest reported salary is 32,500 SEK for a woman in the public sector with high school education.
• How many job openings are available for sheep farmers?
  - There are approximately 360 job openings within the profession of breeders and caretakers of farm animals.