Farm workers, animal keepers

What does a farm worker in animal care do? – Tasks and work environment

Farm workers specializing in animal care are responsible for the maintenance and care of farm animals such as cows, pigs, sheep, and poultry. Tasks include feeding, milking, cleaning stables, monitoring animal health, and assisting with births. The work is often performed in close cooperation with animal owners and other farm staff. The work environment is physically demanding, often outdoors or in stable environments, requiring precision and a sense of responsibility for animal welfare.

Wage development over time

Salary statistics for farm workers in animal care show a relatively stable trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 27,200 SEK per month. In 2023, the average increased to 28 400 SEK, a rise of just over 4%. Between 2023 and 2024, the level has remained at 28 400 SEK. This stagnation in wage growth can be explained by a combination of low inflation in the sector, continued high competition for jobs, and relatively unchanged demand for labor according to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts. Despite some labor shortages in the profession, wages have not increased at the same pace as in some other sectors.

Farm worker, animal 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 (average): 171 SEK
• Women: 27 800 SEK/month (94% of men's salary)
• Men: 29,700 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Information on regional variations is limited, but differences may occur depending on the labor market and demand in different counties.

Education and qualifications

To work as a farm worker in animal care, a high school education in natural sciences is usually required, particularly with a focus on farm animals. Practical experience is highly valued, and many employers prefer applicants who have completed internships or trainee programs on farms. Certifications and further training in animal husbandry can be advantageous for certain specialized tasks.

• High school education: Natural sciences program, specialization in agriculture (3 years)
• Internships: Often a mandatory part of the education
• Certifications: Additional training in animal husbandry, animal welfare, or work environment
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for high school
• Experience: Practical experience from farming is highly meritorious

Common benefits and compensations

Farm workers in animal care often have access to collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, sick pay, and insurance. Other common perks include work clothing, subsidized lunches, and sometimes housing on the farm. In some cases, further training and certification opportunities within specific areas are also offered.

Competition and challenges

Although the labor market for farm workers in animal care is considered to have good opportunities nationwide, there are certain challenges. Recruitment difficulties in finding the right skills, along with many working part-time, pose issues. Competition for permanent full-time positions can be high, especially in regions with few large farms. The work environment is physically demanding and may involve long days during certain periods. Additionally, increased requirements for knowledge in animal welfare and environmental legislation make ongoing training an important part of the profession.

Tips for those wanting to become a farm worker in animal care

To succeed as a farm worker in animal care, it is important to be responsible and meticulous, as animal welfare is always central. Flexibility and the ability to adapt to varying tasks and working hours are also crucial, especially during busy periods. Good teamwork skills facilitate cooperation with colleagues and animal owners, while physical endurance helps manage practical and sometimes heavy tasks. A genuine interest in animals and nature is a significant advantage, contributing to job satisfaction even during tougher days. Gaining early experience through internships or summer jobs on farms increases chances of employment, and continuous education in animal husbandry provides competitive advantages. Finally, good organization skills are important for handling documentation and following legal routines regarding animal welfare and hygiene.

Key facts about farm workers, animal caretakers

• Education level: High school, natural sciences (3 years)
• Work environment: Physically demanding outdoor and stable work
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment according to the Swedish Public Employment Service
• Type of employment: Many part-time positions, some full-time
• Special skills: Animal husbandry, animal health, environmental legislation

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, farm workers specializing in animal care can advance to more responsible roles, such as supervisor or stable manager. There are also opportunities to specialize further in areas like breeding, animal health, or environmental work. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, demand for labor in this profession remains unchanged over the next five years, with good prospects nationwide. However, competition for permanent positions may be greater in some regions. For those seeking further development, options include training as an agronomist, agricultural engineer, or starting their own farm business.

Frequently asked questions about farm workers, animal caretakers

• What does a farm worker in animal care earn?
  - The average salary is 28 400 SEK per month, but wages can vary between 27,000 and 32,500 SEK depending on experience, employer, and sector.
• What education is required to become a farm worker, animal caretaker?
  - High school education in natural sciences, preferably with a focus on farm animals, is the most common pathway into the profession.
• Are there job opportunities for farm workers, animal caretakers?
  - Yes, according to the Swedish Public Employment Service, there are approximately 360 available positions within the profession.
• What is the work environment like?
  - The work is physically demanding and often takes place outdoors or in stables, with varying hours that may include weekends and early mornings.
• How does the salary differ between women and men?
  - Women earn an average of 27 800 SEK (94% of men's salary), while men earn 29,700 SEK per month.
• What career opportunities are available?
  - Opportunities include advancing to supervisor, stable manager, or further training as an agronomist or agricultural engineer.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Responsibility, accuracy, physical endurance, and a genuine interest in animals are central qualities for success and satisfaction in the profession.