Pig breeder salary

Pig Farmer - An Insight into the Profession

As a pig farmer, you play a central role in the agricultural ecosystem. The work involves breeding and caring for pigs, which includes tasks such as feeding, cleaning, and monitoring the animals' health. Pig farmers must have knowledge of animal behavior and well-being to ensure efficient and ethical animal husbandry. The profession requires both practical knowledge and a genuine interest in animals and agriculture.

Salary for Pig Farmers

What does a pig farmer earn? The average monthly salary is 28 400 SEK. However, there are variations depending on gender and type of employment. Men in the profession earn an average of 30 000 SEK while women earn 27 700 SEK, meaning that women earn approximately 92% of what men do. An hourly paid pig farmer has an average hourly wage of 171 SEK, based on 166 working hours per month.

Salary Development and Disparities

Over the past year, the average salary for pig farmers has increased from 27 200 SEK to 28 400 SEK. The highest salary for a woman in the profession is 31600 SEK, belonging to a person with a high school education working in the public sector. The highest salary for a man is 31000 SEK. On the other hand, the lowest salary for a man is 26800 SEK, working as a private sector employee with a post-secondary education of three years or more. Women with the lowest salaries earn 27600 SEK.

Education and Qualifications

Becoming a pig farmer often requires education in agriculture, where programs at the high school level may be sufficient. For those who want to specialize or advance in the profession, post-secondary education in animal husbandry or agriculture can be an advantage. Practical experience is also highly valued and sometimes weighs more than formal education.

Working Conditions and Benefits

Working as a pig farmer can be physically demanding and often involves long working hours, especially during certain seasons. It is important to be prepared for tasks that are both practical and sometimes monotonous. Benefits offered in the profession vary, but there are usually not many extra perks such as paid training or remote work, which are common in more office-based jobs.

Future Prospects and Job Market

According to forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service for the occupation of livestock breeders and caretakers, including pig farmers, the job opportunities are expected to be significant. Over a five-year period, demand is projected to remain stable. However, there are recruitment difficulties, partly due to many working part-time in the profession.

Challenges and Competition

One of the major challenges in the profession is managing recruitment difficulties while there is a large potential supply of part-time workers. It is important for employers to create attractive working conditions to attract and retain competent employees.

Summary

Working as a pig farmer involves a profession of great importance in agriculture. With an average salary of 28 400 SEK and a stable job market, the profession offers both challenges and opportunities for those interested in animal husbandry and agriculture. Education and practical experience are important components for success in the field.