Pet technician

What does a pet technician do? – Tasks and work environment

A pet technician primarily works with the care, feeding, and supervision of farm animals such as cows, sheep, pigs, and other production animals. The profession involves daily routines related to animal welfare, health, and production, as well as monitoring animal stalls, basic treatments, and documenting animal development. The work environment is often physical and varied, involving both indoor and outdoor work, with close contact with animals being central. Working hours can be irregular, especially during certain times of the year when animals require extra supervision, and sometimes include on-call duties.

Salary development over time

The salary for pet technicians has developed steadily in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 27,200 SEK per month, while in 2023 it increased to 28 400 SEK, a rise of approximately 4.4%. In 2024, the salary has been maintained at 28 400 SEK, indicating a plateau after the previous increase. This salary trend reflects a stable demand for the professional skills, with the market’s need for qualified animal care remaining high, though larger salary increases have not occurred recently. Variations in salary development can be due to regional differences, education level, and gender, with women still earning slightly less than men within the profession.

Pet technician 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
• Women's salary: 27 800 SEK/month (94% of men's salary)
• Men's salary: 29,700 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data varies, but some regions may offer higher salaries depending on demand and employers.

Education and qualifications

To work as a pet technician, a high school education in natural sciences is usually required, often with a focus on animal husbandry or agriculture. Practical experience and interest in animals are highly valuable, and some employers also require certifications or specific courses in animal care and animal welfare. Opportunities for further training and specialization are available for those who want to develop within the profession.

• Formal education: Natural sciences program, high school level (3 years)
• Certifications: Courses in animal husbandry, animal welfare, and disease control
• Internship: Workplace-based learning (APL) during education
• Prerequisites: Interest in animals, good physical health, and sense of responsibility
• Further education: Opportunities for specialization in areas such as breeding, nutrition, or animal health

Common benefits and compensations

The most common benefits for pet technicians include access to work clothing and protective equipment, wellness allowances, and sometimes subsidized lunch or staff accommodation near the workplace. Some employers also offer training, further education, and flexible working hours, especially during periods of fluctuating workload.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as a pet technician is generally moderate, mainly due to the physically demanding work and sometimes inconvenient working hours. Despite many part-time workers in the profession, employers often report difficulties in finding qualified staff, especially for full-time positions. Challenges can also arise from seasonal variations, requirements for continuous education in animal health and disease control, and a significant personal responsibility for animal welfare. Those entering the profession should be prepared to work independently and in teams, often making quick decisions under pressure.

Tips for aspiring pet technicians

To succeed as a pet technician, it is good to combine a genuine interest in animals with practical skills and endurance. Engagement and accuracy are crucial, as animal health requires constant attention and care. Flexibility helps when working hours and tasks vary, especially during seasonal peaks. Good teamwork and communication skills are important, as the work is often performed in teams and in close dialogue with colleagues and animal owners. Continuing education and staying updated on new research in animal care also provide competitive advantages. For those wishing to develop in the profession, showing initiative and taking responsibility for both animals and the work environment is valuable. Finally, a positive attitude and patience are appreciated, especially on days when the work involves heavy or monotonous chores.

Key facts about pet technicians

• Education level: High school education (natural sciences, 3 years)
• Work environment: Physical, both indoors and outdoors, often in contact with animals
• Work form: Usually full-time or part-time employment, sometimes seasonal work
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide
• Number of available jobs: 360 within the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a pet technician can take on more specialized roles such as supervisor within animal stalls, animal health advisor, or responsible for breeding programs. Some choose to further their education in animal health, management, or agricultural economics to broaden their career opportunities. The employment agency’s forecast indicates that opportunities are abundant and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Despite a paradox of many part-time workers, there are recruitment difficulties for full-time positions, opening doors for those willing to work full-time and develop long-term within the industry.

Frequently asked questions about pet technicians

• What does a pet technician earn?
  - A pet technician has an average salary of 28 400 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, region, and employer.
• What education is required to become a pet technician?
  - Usually, at least a high school education in natural sciences, often with a focus on animal husbandry.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 27 800 SEK per month, which is 94% of men's average salary of 29,700 SEK.
• What is the job market like for pet technicians?
  - The job market is good with great opportunities for employment and 360 available jobs nationwide.
• What are the tasks of a pet technician?
  - Tasks include daily care, feeding, supervision of animals, basic treatments, and documentation.
• Can I pursue further education as a pet technician?
  - Yes, there are good opportunities for further training and specialization in areas such as animal health, breeding, or leadership.
• What personal qualities are important for the profession?
  - Engagement, responsibility, flexibility, and good teamwork skills are especially valued.