Pet assistant, farm pets

What does a livestock assistant do in farming? – Tasks and work environment

A livestock assistant in farming works daily with caring for, maintaining, and supervising farm animals such as cows, pigs, sheep, and goats. Tasks include feeding, cleaning animal shelters, monitoring animal health, assisting with births, and sometimes administering simple medication according to instructions. The environment is often practical and physically demanding, with workdays starting early or ending late, mostly outdoors or in animal barns. Flexibility, precision, and a strong interest in animals are often required to thrive and succeed in the role.

Salary development over time

The profession of livestock assistant, farm animals, has seen steady salary growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 27,200 SEK per month, rising to 28 400 SEK in 2023, and has remained at that level in 2024. This increase represents a salary improvement of over 4.4% between 2022 and 2023, which is a relatively good increase compared to other agricultural professions. After 2023, however, salary levels have plateaued, possibly due to a combination of stable demand and limited wage room within the sector. Despite this, the profession remains attractive thanks to good employment opportunities and a labor market where the need for skilled animal caretakers persists.

Livestock assistant, farm animals salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 28 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,000 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, 3-year vocational education)
• Highest salary: 32,500 SEK/month (female, public sector, up to 2-year vocational education)
• Hourly wage: 171 SEK
• Women's average salary: 27 800 SEK/month (94% of men's salary)
• Men's average salary: 29,700 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary slightly depending on the geographic location of the workplace, but the national average provides a good indication.

Education and qualifications

To work as a livestock assistant in farming, a vocational education in natural sciences with a focus on animals is usually required, often complemented by practical experience on a farm or agricultural operation. Practical experience is highly valued, and many employers prefer candidates with prior work with animals. Further education and specialized courses in animal health or animal husbandry can be advantageous and increase employability.

• Vocational education: Natural sciences program, specialization in farm animals (3 years)
• Practical training: Workplace-based learning (APL) during education
• Courses: Animal care, animal health, machinery handling
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for upper secondary school
• Merit: Experience from work on a farm or agricultural operation

Common benefits and compensations

Livestock assistants in farming are often offered benefits such as work clothing, wellness allowances, and sometimes accommodation on the farm. Some employers may provide meals or subsidized food during work hours. Flexible working hours and the opportunity to work in a natural environment are also appreciated, along with possibilities for further training and participation in courses.

Challenges and competition

The job market for livestock assistants is relatively good, with large employment opportunities according to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts. However, the industry faces recruitment difficulties, with many working part-time, which can make it hard to find full-time positions. The work is physically demanding and often involves long days, especially during busy periods like calving or lambing. Competition may be greater in regions with fewer farms, while more opportunities exist in rural areas but also higher demands for flexibility and broad skills. Success requires dedication and a willingness to continually develop one's skills.

Tips for those wanting to become a livestock assistant in farming

To succeed as a livestock assistant, it is good to combine a genuine interest in animals with practical problem-solving skills and good physical health. Showing engagement and a willingness to learn new tasks, such as in animal health and machinery handling, makes a big difference when employers seek new staff. Attention to detail is important, as animal welfare often depends on careful care and routines. Collaborating and communicating clearly with colleagues and animal owners is crucial for smooth workflows. Flexibility and patience are needed to handle unforeseen situations in animal husbandry. Finally, a positive attitude and perseverance are valuable, especially during busy periods when workload is high and days are long.

Key facts about livestock assistant, farm animals

• Education level: Vocational education (natural sciences program, 3 years)
• Work environment: Practical, outdoor, and in animal barns
• Demand: Great opportunities for nationwide employment
• Typical work form: Full-time, but many work part-time
• Special skills: Animal care and animal health

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years in the profession, there are opportunities to advance to more responsible roles, such as supervisor for animal care or specialized animal caretaker at larger farms and agricultural companies. Some choose to further their education in animal health, for example becoming veterinary assistants or advisors in agriculture. The Swedish Public Employment Service forecasts continued large opportunities within the sector, with demand expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. There are also opportunities to start your own business or work in training new livestock assistants. With 360 available jobs in the field, the labor market remains strong for those with the right skills and experience.

Common questions about livestock assistant, farm animals

• What does a livestock assistant, farm animals earn?
  - The average salary is 28 400 SEK per month, but it can vary depending on experience and workplace.
• How to become a livestock assistant in farming?
  - Usually requires vocational education in natural sciences with animal specialization and practical experience on a farm.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 94% of men's salaries in the profession.
• What is the job market like for livestock assistants?
  - Opportunities for employment are large, and demand is expected to remain unchanged in the coming years.
• What tasks does a livestock assistant have?
  - Tasks include care, feeding, cleaning, monitoring animal health, and sometimes simple medical procedures.
• Can I work part-time as a livestock assistant?
  - Yes, many work part-time, especially on smaller farms.
• What is the highest salary for a livestock assistant, farm animals?
  - The highest reported salary is 32,500 SEK per month for a woman in the public sector.