Farm workers, animal keepers and machine operators

What do farm workers, animal caretakers, and machine operators do? – Tasks and work environment

Farm workers, animal caretakers, and machine operators perform a wide range of tasks on farms, ranches, and other agricultural operations. Common duties include caring for animals, feeding, cleaning stables, monitoring animal health, as well as handling and maintaining farm machinery. The work environment is often physically demanding, outdoors, and can be challenging with early mornings, weekend work, and long days during certain seasons. Safety awareness and good physical condition are central to daily work, while technical understanding of machinery and a genuine interest in animals are important qualities.

Salary development over time

The salary development for farm workers, animal caretakers, and machine operators has been relatively stable over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 26,900 SEK, followed by a slight decrease to 26 700 SEK in 2023. In 2024, there is again an increase to 27 600 SEK, which corresponds to a growth of approximately 3.4 % compared to the previous year. Salary changes reflect seasonal variations in the industry and are influenced by factors such as demand for labor, machinery development, and employee education levels. Despite the increase, salary levels remain below the national average for many other professions, which can be linked to the traditional structure of the occupation and market competition.

Farm workers, animal caretakers, and machine operators salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 27 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,300 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 50,400 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, post-secondary education of 3 years or more)
• Hourly wage: 166 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 28,500 SEK/month, women 25,300 SEK/month (women earn 89 % of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Specific data is lacking, but variation exists between rural and urban areas

Education and qualifications

To work as a farm worker, animal caretaker, or machine operator, relevant high school education in natural resource use or agriculture is usually required, but there are also opportunities to learn the trade through internships and on-the-job training. Technical knowledge about machinery and animal husbandry are important, and some employers may require specific certifications for machine operation or animal handling. Personal engagement and practical experience are highly valued in the profession.

• High school education: Natural resource program (3 years)
• Certifications: Machine operator license, animal handling certificates
• Internships: Workplace-based learning (APL) and trainee positions are common
• Prerequisites: No formal university education required, but driver’s license and some technical knowledge may be demanded
• Further education: Courses in animal husbandry, crop production, and machinery technology

Common benefits and compensations

In the profession, benefits such as work clothing, wellness allowances, accommodation on the farm, and sometimes access to occupational health services are often provided. Some workplaces may also offer bonuses during peak seasons or extra compensation for inconvenient hours. Vacation pay and pension contributions follow collective agreements.

Challenges and competition

The profession of farm workers, animal caretakers, and machine operators is characterized by competition for permanent positions, especially in regions where agriculture is a major employer. Seasonal variations mean many positions are temporary, which can make it difficult to find permanent employment year-round. The physical demands and outdoor work in all weather conditions can be tough for some, while technological changes require ongoing skills development. The limited availability of labor in certain areas can create opportunities for those with the right education and experience. The labor market is also affected by economic conditions in agriculture and environmental regulations.

Tips for those interested in becoming a farm worker, animal caretaker, or machine operator

To succeed in these roles, having a genuine interest in animals and nature, and being prepared for physically demanding work with varied tasks, is beneficial. Attention to detail is important when following routines for animal welfare and machinery maintenance. Flexibility and adaptability facilitate seasonal work and changing duties, while technical interest makes it easier to learn new machines and methods. Good teamwork and social skills are highly valued, as work often occurs in small teams or with the employer. Being self-reliant and proactive can also be advantageous, especially on smaller farms where responsibilities are broad. Finally, actively seeking internships and being open to working on different farms increases chances of securing permanent employment.

Key facts about farm workers, animal caretakers, and machine operators

• Education level: High school (natural resource program) most common
• Work environment: Physically demanding, often outdoors and seasonal
• Typical employment: Seasonal or permanent on farm
• Demand: 360 job openings in the profession (May 2024)
• Special skills: Machinery operation and animal handling

Career paths and outlook

After three to five years in the profession, there are opportunities to advance to more specialized roles, such as supervisor on larger farms, responsible for machinery, or animal care supervisor. Some choose to further their education as an agronomist or start their own agricultural business. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, there is no specific assessment for the profession due to limited data, but currently, there are 360 job openings in the crop production and animal breeding sector. Future prospects are influenced by technological development, environmental requirements, and changes within the agricultural sector, but demand for skilled personnel remains, especially during peak seasons.

Frequently asked questions about farm workers, animal caretakers, and machine operators

• What do farm workers, animal caretakers, and machine operators earn?
  - The average salary is 27 600 SEK/month, but varies depending on experience, education, and workplace.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Men earn on average 28,500 SEK/month and women 25,300 SEK/month, which means women earn 89 % of men's salaries.
• What education is required?
  - High school education in natural resource use is recommended, but practical experience and certifications are also valuable.
• What is the work environment like?
  - The work is often physically demanding, outdoors, and can involve inconvenient hours during certain periods.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salary and employment conditions can vary between rural and more urban areas.
• What career paths are available?
  - Opportunities include becoming a supervisor, machinery manager, or further education as an agronomist or self-employed farmer.
• How many job openings are available?
  - Currently, there are 360 job openings in the crop production and animal breeding sector, mixed operations.