Fruit pickers salary

Fruit Picker – A Job in the Service of Nature

Working as a fruit picker means spending a lot of time outdoors, often in beautiful and scenic environments. Fruit pickers, which can also include berry pickers and planters, play an important role in agriculture by ensuring that fruits and berries are picked when ripe. The tasks can vary depending on the season and the type of crop being grown, but usually involve hand-picking fruits and berries from trees and bushes, as well as sorting and packing them for further transport.

Salary for Fruit Pickers

The salary for fruit pickers can vary depending on experience, employer, and region. The average monthly salary for a fruit picker is 26 400 kronor. However, there is a clear gender pay gap within the profession. Men earn an average of 26 700 kronor per month, while women earn 26 100 kronor. This means that women earn around 98% of what men do in the same profession. Additionally, the average salary for fruit pickers has decreased from 23 500 kronor to 26 400 kronor since last year.

Education and Requirements

No formal education is required to work as a fruit picker. It is a profession where you learn a lot on the job and through practical experience. Employers usually value accuracy, physical endurance, and a strong work ethic. Having previous experience in similar work or knowledge of different fruit and berry varieties can be an advantage, but it is not a requirement.

Things to Consider if You Want to Work as a Fruit Picker

If you are considering working as a fruit picker, there are a few things to keep in mind. Since the work is often seasonal, it may involve periods of intense work followed by quieter periods. It is also a physically demanding job that can entail long days and work in various weather conditions. Therefore, flexibility and a positive attitude are important qualities.

Job Benefits and Prospects

Benefits vary depending on the employer and workplace. There may sometimes be opportunities for paid training, but this is not standard within the industry. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, the opportunities for work as a fruit picker are considered moderate nationally. Over a five-year period, the demand for fruit pickers is expected to remain unchanged, with a balanced recruitment situation.

In summary, being a fruit picker is a profession for those who enjoy physical outdoor work and don't mind working seasonally. Despite gender pay disparities in the profession, it offers an opportunity to work close to nature and contribute to the agricultural sector.