Poultry owners

What does a Poultry Farmer do? – Tasks and work environment

A poultry farmer is responsible for the operation, planning, and development of a poultry farm, focusing on egg production or poultry breeding. The work includes practical and administrative tasks, such as monitoring bird health, managing feed and water, cleaning stables and facilities, and ensuring animals are kept under good conditions in accordance with animal welfare regulations. The work environment is often physically demanding and involves regular tasks both indoors and outdoors, regardless of the season. Poultry farmers often work with machines and technology to streamline production, but much care is still performed manually. Contact with suppliers, veterinarians, and possibly employees is also an integral part of daily life.

Salary development over time

The profession of poultry farmer has experienced relatively stable salary development over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 27,200 SEK per month, while in 2023 and 2024 it increased to 28 400. This change corresponds to an increase of approximately 4.4% between 2022 and 2024. The salary level has remained steady in the past year, which can be explained by steady demand on the labor market and stable revenues in the industry. Despite some regional differences and gender disparities, salary growth in the profession is generally cautious, reflecting that the industry depends on factors such as production volume, market prices for eggs, and efficiency in animal husbandry.

Poultry Farmer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 28 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,000 SEK/month (female, private sector, high school education 3 years)
• Highest salary: 32,500 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage: 171 SEK (based on 166 working hours/month)
• Gender differences: Women earn 27 800 SEK/month (94% of men's salary of 29,700 SEK/month)
• Regional differences: Data varies, but salary levels can be influenced by proximity to larger markets and demand for egg production

Education and qualifications

To work as a poultry farmer, experience in animal husbandry and agriculture is usually required, preferably supplemented with high school education in natural resource management or similar. Many choose to further their education through specialized courses in poultry care, animal health, and entrepreneurship. Practical experience is highly valuable, and it is common to start as an employee or intern before starting your own business. Success also requires knowledge of economics, legislation, and work environment regulations.

• High school education: Natural resource management program, specialization in agriculture or animals (3 years)
• Courses/certifications: Specialized courses in poultry care, animal health, and food safety
• Internship: Often through high school or as a trainee on a farm
• Entrepreneurship knowledge: Basic understanding of economics and administration is recommended
• Experience: Previous work on farms or poultry farms is advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Typical benefits for poultry farmers can include free work clothes, access to on-farm accommodation, and discounts on feed and equipment. Some employers also offer wellness allowances and opportunities for further training. Self-employed farmers often have flexibility in working hours but also bear the financial responsibility for the business.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for poultry farmers is characterized by high competition, especially in regions with established producers. Profitability is heavily affected by price fluctuations on eggs and feed, as well as national and international regulations for animal husbandry. The recruitment situation is paradoxical: there is a shortage of full-time poultry farmers, while many work part-time. Challenges also include disease risks among animals, high hygiene standards, and physically demanding work environments. Success requires both business acumen and a genuine interest in animal welfare.

Tips for those wanting to become a Poultry Farmer

To succeed as a poultry farmer, it is good to be persistent and meticulous, as the work requires daily supervision and quick action when problems arise. A genuine interest in animals is crucial to provide the best possible care and maintain high animal welfare standards. Flexibility and openness to new technology are also important, as the industry develops rapidly and digital solutions are becoming more common. The ability to plan and manage finances is a strength, especially for those running their own poultry farm. Networking and participating in industry seminars can provide valuable contacts and knowledge. Finally, being solution-oriented is an advantage, as unforeseen situations often require quick decisions and action.

Key facts about Poultry Farmers

• Education level: High school education in natural resource management is most common
• Work environment: Physical work on farms and in stables
• Work form: Self-employed or employed on farms
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationally
• Special skills: Animal care, entrepreneurship, technical understanding

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a poultry farmer can develop to run larger operations, take responsibility for multiple production branches, or specialize in, for example, organic egg production. There are also opportunities to work as advisors, trainers, or inspectors within animal husbandry and food safety. According to the Employment Service's forecast, job opportunities for poultry farmers, within the profession of breeders and caretakers of farm animals, are large both now and in five years. Demand is expected to remain unchanged, but recruitment difficulties persist because many work part-time in the profession. Currently, there are 360 job openings in the profession, indicating a stable labor market for those with the right skills and commitment.

Common questions about Poultry Farmers

• What does a Poultry Farmer earn?
  - The average salary for a poultry farmer is 28 400 SEK per month.
• How to become a Poultry Farmer?
  - Most commonly, a high school education in natural resource management and experience in animal husbandry.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 94% of what men do in the profession.
• What are the future prospects for Poultry Farmers?
  - The Employment Service assesses job opportunities as large, and demand is expected to remain unchanged.
• What are the most common job tasks?
  - Caring for chickens, egg production, feed management, cleaning, and administration.
• What education is required to work as a Poultry Farmer?
  - High school education in natural resource management and courses in animal husbandry and entrepreneurship are common.
• How many job openings are there for Poultry Farmers?
  - There are approximately 360 job openings in the profession of breeders and caretakers of farm animals.