Cattle herder

What does a livestock caretaker do? – Tasks and work environment

A livestock caretaker is responsible for the daily care of farm animals, such as cows, pigs, sheep, or other livestock on farms. Tasks include feeding, cleaning stables, milking, monitoring animal health, and documenting routines and any deviations. Often, basic veterinary care, maintenance of machinery and buildings, and handling of feed and manure are included. The work environment is mainly outdoors or in barn settings, which means the work can be physically demanding and subject to varying weather conditions. Irregular working hours and weekend work are common, especially during busy periods like calving or lambing.

Salary development over time

The salary development for livestock caretakers has been relatively stable in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 27,200 SEK per month, which increased to 28 400 SEK during 2023. This level has remained constant through 2024. This represents a total increase of about 8.8% between 2022 and 2023, with no further increase in the past year. The rapid rise between 2022 and 2023 can be explained by increased demand for labor in agriculture and general wage adjustments to meet societal cost increases. Since then, the market has stabilized, reflected in the halted wage growth. The profession is also influenced by regional differences and employer size, which can cause some variation in salary levels.

Livestock caretaker 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 (average, based on 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Men 29,700 SEK, women 27 800 SEK (women earn 94% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on county and employer

Education and qualifications

To work as a livestock caretaker, a high school education in natural resource management is usually required, but practical experience or adult education can also provide entry into the profession. Many employers value practical experience highly, but formal education often offers more opportunities for development and specialization. Shorter courses and certifications in animal husbandry, animal health, and machinery operation are also available.

• High school education: Natural resource program, specializing in agriculture (3 years)
• Adult education / Vocational college: Possible for adults to take relevant courses or attend vocational training
• Internships: On-the-job learning is common during training and as an introduction
• Courses and certifications: For example, in animal health, machinery operation, or organic production
• Prerequisites: No formal higher education required, but interest in animals and agriculture is essential

Common benefits and compensations

Benefits for livestock caretakers vary between employers but can include work clothing, wellness allowances, subsidized meals, and access to staff housing. Some employers also offer training support or opportunities to participate in courses. Overtime pay for evening and weekend work is common, as well as compensation for standby duties outside regular hours to meet animal needs.

Competition and challenges

The job market for livestock caretakers is characterized by good employment opportunities, as demand for skilled workers in agriculture is high. At the same time, challenges include recruitment difficulties, often because many work part-time or because the work environment is demanding and irregular. Competition for full-time positions can be higher in certain regions, especially where larger farms are present. The profession requires physical endurance and flexibility, as tasks and working hours can vary greatly depending on the season and animal needs. Changes in the agricultural sector, such as increased automation and digitalization, can also affect the role and requirements.

Tips for those wanting to become a livestock caretaker

To succeed as a livestock caretaker, it is good to have a genuine interest in animals and nature, as well as the ability to work independently. Demonstrating responsibility is crucial since animal welfare depends on daily care and accuracy. Flexibility is also an important trait, as tasks and hours often change with the seasons and animal needs. Technical interest can facilitate handling modern farm machinery and digital monitoring systems. It is also wise to seek internships during training to build experience and networks within the industry. Being resilient and physically fit makes the work easier and more enjoyable, especially during busy periods. Finally, a positive attitude and teamwork skills are beneficial, as collaboration with colleagues and animal owners is common in daily work.

Key facts about livestock caretakers

• Education level: High school education (natural resource management) is most common
• Work environment: Barn and farm, often outdoors and physically demanding
• Job market: Great opportunities for employment, especially for experienced workers
• Work form: Usually full-time but also many part-time positions
• Technical skills: Increasing importance of machinery and digital competence

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a livestock caretaker, there are good opportunities to specialize in areas such as animal health, breeding, or machinery management. It is also common to advance into supervisory roles, such as barn manager or farm foreman. The employment agency's forecast shows that opportunities for work are strong, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. At the same time, there is a paradoxical recruitment situation with many part-time employees and a shortage of permanent staff. The profession also provides experience that can be used for further education in agronomy, becoming a farm manager, or entrepreneurship within agriculture. As of May 2024, there were 360 job openings in the profession, reflecting the high demand on the labor market.

Frequently asked questions about livestock caretakers

• What does a livestock caretaker earn?
  - The average salary is 28 400 SEK per month, with some variation depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• How has the salary development been for livestock caretakers?
  - Salaries have increased from 27,200 SEK in 2022 to 28 400 SEK during 2023 and 2024.
• What education is required to become a livestock caretaker?
  - The most common is a high school education in natural resource management, but practical experience and adult education are also acceptable.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 94% of what men do in the profession.
• What is the job market like for livestock caretakers?
  - There are great opportunities for employment and many vacancies, especially for experienced workers.
• What personal qualities are important for the profession?
  - Responsibility, flexibility, technical interest, and good physical health are especially valuable qualities.
• What career opportunities are available after a few years?
  - Specialization in animal health, supervisory roles, or further education within the agricultural sector are common paths.