Hunter

What does a hunter do? – Tasks and work environment

A hunter primarily works with game management, hunting, and nature conservation. The profession involves planning and conducting hunts, monitoring game populations, and contributing to a sustainable balance between wildlife and ecosystems. Many hunters are also engaged in educational efforts, advising, and information work regarding game management and hunting ethics. The work environment is often outdoors, in forests and fields, and tasks can vary depending on season and geographic area. Safety, knowledge of nature, and collaboration with landowners and authorities are central parts of the role.

Salary development over time

The salary for hunters has shown stable and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 40,100 SEK per month, increasing to 41 600 SEK in 2023 and further to 43 100 SEK in 2024. The total increase over three years is approximately 7.5%, which is slightly above the average salary increase in many other professions within the natural resource sector. This trend can be explained by increased awareness of the importance of game management, higher demands for specialist skills, and a growing interest in sustainable hunting. The demand for qualified hunters has also contributed to higher salary levels, especially for those with further education and experience in advising and forestry.

Hunter salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 43 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,000 SEK/month (female, private sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 48,300 SEK/month (male, public sector, research education)
• Hourly wage: 259 SEK/hour
• Women's average salary: 42 200 SEK (97% of men's salary)
• Men's average salary: 43 400 SEK
• Regional differences: Varies depending on access to hunting grounds and demand for game management

Education and qualifications

To work as a hunter, a combination of practical experience, education in hunting and game management, and sometimes formal higher education is generally required. Many hunters have taken courses through the Swedish Hunters' Association or equivalent and have obtained a hunting license (jägarexamen), which is a fundamental requirement for owning hunting weapons. Further education in ecology, biology, or forestry can be advantageous, especially for advisory roles or work within the public sector.

• Hunting license (jägarexamen): Mandatory basic qualification to hunt and own hunting weapons
• Courses and certifications: Specialized training in game management, protected hunting, and ecology
• Higher education: Biology, ecology, or forestry (2–5 years) may be required for certain positions
• Practical experience: Long-term hunting experience and supervised practice are recommended
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition, interest in nature, and sense of responsibility

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for hunters include company cars, opportunities for further training, wellness allowances, and access to hunting grounds via the employer. Some employers also provide compensation for work clothing and equipment, as well as opportunities to participate in conferences and industry events. Flexible working hours and some freedom to plan workdays are also common within the profession.

Competition and challenges

Competition within the profession of hunters is characterized by the limited number of positions and the specialized skills required. Since the profession is often closely linked to local networks and connections, establishing oneself without the right contacts or experience can be difficult. Challenges include variations in access to hunting grounds, changes in legislation regarding game management, and increased demands for documentation and reporting. Climate change and shifting game populations can affect tasks and require higher adaptability. Despite these factors, there are currently available positions within the profession, but future prospects are difficult to predict due to limited statistical data.

Tips for aspiring hunters

To succeed as a hunter, it’s good to combine patience and thoroughness with a genuine interest in nature. Building practical experience by participating in hunting teams and conservation associations provides both knowledge and valuable contacts. Engagement and a sense of responsibility are crucial, especially regarding safety and ethics in hunting. It’s recommended to invest time in education, both through formal courses and self-study, to stay updated on legislation and game management. Good physical fitness facilitates fieldwork, while strong communication skills are needed for collaboration with landowners, authorities, and colleagues. Finally, staying flexible and open to further training is wise, as the profession evolves with new requirements and techniques.

Key facts about Hunters

• Education level: Hunting license and often further education in natural resource management
• Work environment: Outdoors in varying weather and terrain
• Typical employment: Permanent employment or consultancy assignments
• Demand: 360 available jobs within the profession (2024)
• Special skills: Game management, ecology, and safe weapon handling

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, opportunities open for more qualified roles such as advisors, hunting leaders, or specialized game managers. Some hunters move on to work within authorities, research institutes, or education, while others develop their own consulting businesses. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast for the profession of specialists and advisors in forestry, there is currently no precise future outlook for hunters, but there are reports of 360 available jobs in the group. This indicates a stable demand, although competition may be high depending on the region and specialization. For those combining work experience with further education, advancement opportunities are good.

Frequently asked questions about Hunters

• What does a hunter earn?
  - A hunter has an average salary of 43 100 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, education, and employer.
• What education is required to become a hunter?
  - The hunting license (jägarexamen) is a basic requirement, often combined with courses and sometimes higher education in biology or forestry.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 97% of what men do within the profession.
• What is the job market like for hunters?
  - There are 360 available jobs within the profession, but competition may vary between regions.
• What tasks does a hunter perform?
  - Tasks include hunting, game management, advising, education, and collaboration with authorities and landowners.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a hunter?
  - The highest salary is 48,300 SEK (male, public sector, research education). The lowest is 27,000 SEK (female, private sector, high school education).
• What personal qualities are important for a hunter?
  - Patience, responsibility, interest in nature, and good physical ability are key qualities for the profession.