Hunter keeper

What does a Jaktvårdare do? – Tasks and work environment

A Jaktvårdare primarily works with managing game populations and natural environments, often on behalf of landowners, hunting teams, or authorities. The tasks include monitoring animal populations, feeding, supervising hunting grounds, guiding hunters, and educating about hunting ethics and wildlife management. The work is mostly outdoors in forests and fields, requiring readiness for varying weather conditions and physically demanding tasks. In addition to practical fieldwork, administrative tasks, reporting, and collaboration with other actors in natural resource management and forestry are sometimes included.

Salary development over time

The profession of Jaktvårdare has experienced steady salary increases over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 40,100 SEK, which increased to 41 600 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has continued upward and reached 43 100 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 7.5% over three years. This development can partly be explained by increased demand for specialists in forestry and environmental management, as well as higher skill requirements within the profession. Some salary growth has also been noted among experienced Jaktvårdare with specialist skills, especially in the public sector and larger landowner organizations.

Jaktvårdare 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 degree)
• Hourly wage: 259 SEK
• Women: 42 200 SEK/month (97% of men's salary)
• Men: 43 400 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data varies, but higher salaries are often seen in larger forest districts and for work with public actors

Education and qualifications

To work as a Jaktvårdare, education in natural resource management or forestry is usually required, often with a focus on game management. Practical experience with hunting, animal care, and nature conservation is highly meritorious, and further education in ecology or environmental science can provide advantages in employment. Many employers prefer candidates with documented knowledge of hunting legislation and firearm handling, as well as good collaboration skills.

• High school education: Natural resource program with specialization in forestry or hunting (3 years)
• Vocational college: Courses in game management, ecology, and nature conservation (1–2 years)
• Certifications: Hunting license and firearm license often required
• Practical training: Workplace-based internships or trainee programs provide valuable experience
• Further education: Courses in ecosystem services, environmental law, or species knowledge are recommended

Common benefits and compensations

For Jaktvårdare, it is common to be offered natural benefits such as free hunting equipment, access to company vehicles, and sometimes staff housing near the workplace. Other benefits may include wellness allowances, paid further training, and the possibility of flexible working hours depending on the season and tasks.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a Jaktvårdare can be intense, especially in attractive areas and with larger landowner organizations. Many employers require relevant education and practical experience, making entry into the job market challenging for recent graduates. The profession also involves seasonal variations and physically demanding work environments, demanding endurance and flexibility. Changes in hunting legislation and wildlife management can also affect tasks and require ongoing skills development.

Tips for aspiring Jaktvårdare

To succeed as a Jaktvårdare, it is good to combine a genuine interest in nature with strong collaboration skills and initiative. Gaining practical experience early, such as through summer jobs or internships in forestry, increases chances of establishing oneself in the profession. Accuracy and responsibility are important qualities, especially when handling firearms and working with animals. Engagement in hunting or nature conservation associations provides both networks and current knowledge. The ability to communicate and educate others about wildlife management and sustainability is highly valued, especially when guiding or involved in public education. Finally, being flexible and open to working in different parts of the country is an advantage, as the job market can vary regionally.

Key facts about Jaktvårdare

• Education level: High school or vocational training in natural resource management
• Work environment: Outdoors in forests and fields, often with varying weather
• Work form: Practical fieldwork combined with administrative tasks
• Demand: Approximately 360 job openings in the profession as of recent measurement
• Special skills: Hunting legislation, wildlife management, and firearm handling

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience, a Jaktvårdare can advance to leadership roles such as hunting manager on larger estates, wildlife management advisor, or trainer in hunting and nature conservation. Opportunities also exist to specialize in areas like game damage regulation, eco-tourism, or environmental monitoring. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, specific assessments are lacking for the profession due to limited data, but in the "Specialists and advisors in forestry" category, 360 job openings were reported in the latest survey. The job market may vary regionally and be influenced by economic conditions, legislative changes, and developments in natural resource management and environmental conservation.

Frequently asked questions about Jaktvårdare

• What is the average salary of a Jaktvårdare?
  - A Jaktvårdare has an average monthly salary of 43 100 SEK.
• Are there large salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 97% of what men do in the profession.
• What is the highest salary paid to a Jaktvårdare?
  - The highest salary is 48,300 SEK and applies to a man in the public sector with a research degree.
• What education is required to become a Jaktvårdare?
  - High school or vocational training in natural resource management, along with a hunting license and often a firearm license.
• What is the job market like for Jaktvårdare?
  - There are approximately 360 job openings in the profession, but demand varies regionally.
• What are the tasks of a Jaktvårdare?
  - Tasks include game management, supervision of hunting grounds, guiding hunters, and education in hunting ethics.
• What is the hourly wage for a Jaktvårdare?
  - The average for hourly workers is 259 SEK per hour.