Experimental techniques, plant cultivation

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

A trial technician in crop production is responsible for planning, executing, and evaluating various types of cultivation trials and experiments, often in close collaboration with agronomists, plant physiologists, and researchers. Tasks include sowing, plant care, sampling, and data collection and analysis related to growth, yield, and environmental impact. The technician works both in the field and in laboratories, where precision and documentation are central to daily work. The role also involves handling specialized equipment, following safety procedures, and reporting results to project managers or clients.

Salary development over time

Salaries for a trial technician in crop production have shown steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 38,700 SEK per month, increasing to 39 900 SEK in 2023 and further rising to 41 700 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 7.8% over three years, slightly above the average for similar technical professions. The positive trend is linked to increased demand for qualified personnel in biological research, technological advances in cultivation techniques, and a greater emphasis on sustainability and innovation in agriculture. The labor market’s need for personnel with both practical and technical skills has also contributed to wage increases. Despite the profession's relatively narrow scope, there are clear incentives for employers to compete for experienced trial technicians through attractive compensation packages.

Trial technician in crop production salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 41 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,800 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, 3-year high school education)
• Highest salary: 52,000 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, postgraduate degree)
• Hourly wage (average): 251 SEK
• Women earn: 40 900 SEK/month (96% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 42 600 SEK/month
• Regional differences: No specific statistics available

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a trial technician in crop production typically involves a scientific or technical education, often with a focus on biology, agriculture, or environmental science. Practical experience from laboratory work, field trials, or similar environments is highly valuable. Many employers also require knowledge of statistics and data management, as well as the ability to handle advanced technical equipment.

• Bachelor’s degree: Biology, agronomy, environmental science, or similar (3 years)
• Specialized courses: Crop production, trial methodology, statistics
• Internship: Laboratory or field internship during studies
• Certifications: Working with chemicals, laboratory safety (sometimes required)
• Prerequisites: Basic laboratory experience and technical interest

Common benefits and compensations

Trial technicians in crop production are often offered perks such as wellness allowances, holiday pay, and sometimes pension schemes. Opportunities for professional development through training and conferences are common, as well as flexible working hours or partial remote work depending on the employer and project type.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as a trial technician in crop production varies by region and labor market demand. Since the profession requires a combination of practical experience and theoretical knowledge, it can be difficult for recent graduates to immediately secure qualified roles. A challenge is also that tasks are often seasonal, which can lead to uneven workloads throughout the year. The development of technology and digitalization also demands continuous skills upgrading, especially regarding data collection and analysis tools. The lack of clear career paths in some organizations can also impact long-term development opportunities.

Tips for aspiring trial technicians in crop production

To succeed as a trial technician in crop production, it’s beneficial to have strong problem-solving skills and curiosity, as the work often involves quickly finding solutions to practical challenges in the field or laboratory. Precision is crucial for reliable documentation and analysis, so early training in a systematic work approach is advisable. Being flexible and able to adapt to varying work environments, especially during busy planting seasons, is also a valuable asset. Good communication skills are important, as collaborations with researchers and other technicians are common. Finally, investing in further education in statistics and digital analysis tools is wise, as these skills are increasingly in demand.

Key facts about trial technicians in crop production

• Educational level: Bachelor’s degree in biology, agronomy, or environmental science
• Work environment: Combination of fieldwork and laboratory setting
• Demand: 564 available jobs in the profession
• Gender distribution: Women earn 96% of men's salary
• Typical employment: Full-time employment, but some hourly employment also exists

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a trial technician in crop production, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as project manager, research engineer, or specialist in plant breeding and biotechnology. Further education can also lead to positions within government agencies, consulting, or quality control in the food and agriculture industry. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts for laboratory engineers in biology, there is no specific assessment for trial technicians in crop production due to limited statistical data. Nonetheless, the number of available jobs indicates stable demand, especially for those combining practical experience with digital and analytical skills.

Frequently asked questions about trial technicians in crop production

• What does a trial technician in crop production earn?
  - The average salary is 41 700 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, education level, and employer.
• What are the gender differences within the profession?
  - Women earn an average of 40 900 SEK, which corresponds to 96% of men's salary of 42 600 SEK.
• What education is required to become a trial technician in crop production?
  - A bachelor's degree in biology, agronomy, or environmental science is most common, often supplemented with specialized courses or internships.
• Is there potential for advancement within the profession?
  - Yes, further education and experience can lead to roles such as project manager, research engineer, or specialist.
• What is the job market like for trial technicians in crop production?
  - There are 564 available jobs in the profession, indicating stable demand.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for the profession?
  - The highest salary is 52,000 SEK and the lowest is 31,800 SEK per month, depending on education, gender, and employment type.