Horse caretaker salary

Occupational Profile: Equine Caretaker

Equine caretakers belong to the category of breeders and caretakers of agricultural livestock. Their main tasks include the care and management of horses, including feeding, exercising, grooming, and ensuring the horses' living environment is safe and clean.

Salary Statistics for Equine Caretakers

The average salary for an equine caretaker in Sweden is 27 200 SEK per month. There is a clear gender pay gap where men earn an average of 27 900 SEK, while women earn 26 600 SEK, meaning that women earn 95% of what men do. There has been a salary increase from the previous year when the average salary was 26 100 SEK.

Education and Qualifications

To work as an equine caretaker, a basic education in animal husbandry is usually required, which may include a high school education in agriculture with a focus on horse care or equivalent. Additional courses and certificates related to equine care and horse handling can strengthen one's professional profile and enhance employment opportunities.

Requirements for Becoming an Equine Caretaker

In addition to education, practical experience is highly valued in the profession. Having worked with horses, whether through internships, volunteer work, or previous employment, is often a requirement. Qualities such as responsibility, patience, and the ability to physically handle the sometimes heavy tasks are essential.

Work Environment and Other Benefits

Equine caretakers spend a lot of time outdoors, and the work can be physically demanding. Working conditions may vary depending on the employer but can include everything from work in stables to work in riding schools or within horse breeding. Benefits that may be included are paid professional training, which is not only a benefit but also an investment in the employee's future development in the profession.

Considerations for Those Wishing to Work as an Equine Caretaker

Working as an equine caretaker requires a strong passion for animals, especially horses. It is important to be aware that working hours can be irregular, with early mornings, evenings, and weekend work. It is also a profession where one often works alone or in small teams, so good teamwork skills and the ability to work independently are important.