Experimental techniques, horticulture

What does a trial technician in horticulture do? – Tasks and work environment

A trial technician in horticulture primarily works with planning, executing, and documenting various experiments in greenhouses, on open ground, or in laboratory settings. Tasks include sowing, planting, harvesting, precise data collection, sampling, and analyzing results. Calibration of equipment and following routines to ensure scientific accuracy are often required. The work environment varies between outdoor work, greenhouse work, and laboratory tasks, demanding both practical skills and analytical thinking. Collaboration with researchers, growers, and other technicians is common, making communication and teamwork important parts of the profession.

Salary development over time

The profession of trial technicians in horticulture has experienced a clear positive salary trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 38,700 SEK per month and increased to 39 900 SEK in 2023, which is approximately a 3.1% increase. Between 2023 and 2024, the average salary further rose to 41 700 SEK, representing an additional 4.5% increase. This upward trend can be linked to increased demand for qualified technicians in both research and industry, as well as the skill requirements of the profession. The trend also reflects a general wage increase within laboratory engineering roles, where specialized knowledge and experience are rewarded.

Trial technician in horticulture salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 41 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,800 SEK/month (woman, private sector employee, high school education)
• Highest salary: 52,000 SEK/month (woman, private sector employee, postgraduate education)
• Hourly wage (average): 251 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 96% of what men do (men: 42 600 SEK, women: 40 900 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a trial technician in horticulture, a post-secondary education in biology, agronomy, or horticulture is usually required, often supplemented with practical experience from cultivation or laboratory work. Employers seek both theoretical knowledge and the ability to handle advanced equipment and understand scientific methods. Internships and trainee positions are common entry routes, and further education in areas such as plant physiology or statistics can be advantageous.

• Formal education: University degree in biology, agronomy, or horticulture (3–5 years)
• Certifications: Courses in laboratory techniques and safety
• Practical experience: Often a requirement for internships or traineeships
• Pre-knowledge: Basic laboratory skills and plant knowledge
• Tips: Further training in statistics or plant protection increases employability

Common benefits and compensations

Trial technicians in horticulture are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, extra vacation days, and opportunities for skills development. In some cases, flexible working hours, subsidized meals, or access to work clothing and protective gear are included. Within larger research institutions or companies, pension contributions and health insurance may also be provided.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as trial technicians in horticulture varies depending on region and demand within research and industry. Since the profession requires both practical and theoretical skills, it can be challenging for recent graduates to find qualified positions immediately. Technological advancements in cultivation systems and laboratory methods mean ongoing skills development is necessary. Limited training places and high demands for accuracy and responsibility make selection for positions often competitive. The job is also physically demanding and often involves work under varying weather conditions.

Tips for those who want to become trial technicians in horticulture

To succeed as a trial technician in horticulture, it is good to combine curiosity with precision and technical interest. Actively seeking internships and trainee positions provides valuable experience and improves chances of employment. Analytical skills aid in collecting and interpreting experimental data, while teamwork skills facilitate projects involving multiple competencies. Flexibility is also an asset, as tasks often switch between fieldwork, greenhouses, and laboratories. Keeping up-to-date with new methods and techniques in cultivation and analysis offers a competitive edge, and a genuine interest in plants and sustainability issues is often crucial for job satisfaction and success.

Key facts about trial technicians in horticulture

• Education level: University degree in biology, agronomy, or horticulture
• Work environment: Greenhouses, laboratories, and outdoor settings
• Work form: Often project-based and team-oriented
• Demand: 564 available jobs in Sweden
• Special skills: Plant physiology, data collection, and statistical analysis

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years as a trial technician in horticulture, opportunities exist to advance to roles such as project manager, research assistant, or specialist in plant breeding. Some choose to deepen their knowledge in biotechnology or plant protection and pursue research studies or product development in industry. The employment agency’s forecasts for laboratory engineers in biology indicate that no specific assessment can be made due to limited data, but the number of available jobs in the profession is 564, suggesting relatively good demand. The profession can also serve as a stepping stone to work in international research projects or advisory roles within the food and agricultural sectors.

Common questions about trial technicians in horticulture

• What does a trial technician in horticulture earn?
  - The average salary is 41 700 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, education, and employer.
• What education is required to become a trial technician in horticulture?
  - Usually a university degree in biology, agronomy, or horticulture, along with practical experience.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 96% of what men do within the profession.
• What is the job market like for trial technicians in horticulture?
  - There are 564 available jobs within the laboratory engineering field, indicating strong demand.
• What tasks does a trial technician in horticulture perform?
  - Tasks include planning and conducting experiments, data collection, analysis, and reporting.
• What personal qualities are important in this profession?
  - Accuracy, analytical skills, teamwork, and an interest in plants and research are key.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for trial technicians in horticulture?
  - The highest salary is 52,000 SEK per month, and the lowest is 31,800 SEK per month.