Agricultural inspector, livestock breeding

What does a livestock inspector in animal husbandry do? – Tasks and work environment

Livestock inspectors specializing in animal husbandry primarily work to inspect, evaluate, and advise on animal keeping, animal welfare, and production methods within agriculture. The role often involves visits to farms and facilities where the inspector examines animal health, environment, and care, ensuring compliance with applicable legislation and industry standards. In addition to inspections, tasks include reporting, advising animal owners, and sometimes providing training. The work environment can range from office tasks to fieldwork under various weather conditions, requiring good adaptability and a genuine interest in animals and agriculture.

Salary development over time

Salary levels for livestock inspectors in animal husbandry have shown steady and positive growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 40,300 SEK per month. In 2023, the salary increased to 45 200 SEK, representing approximately a 12% increase. In 2024, the average salary continued to rise to 45 700 SEK per month, which is an increase of just over 1% compared to the previous year. The strongest salary increase occurred between 2022 and 2023, likely due to increased demand for specialized skills in animal husbandry and higher standards for animal welfare. Salaries have since leveled off somewhat, but the trend remains modestly upward.

Livestock inspector in animal husbandry salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 45 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,400 SEK
• Highest salary: 49,300 SEK
• Hourly wage (average): 275 SEK
• Women: 41 300 SEK (85% of men's salary)
• Men: 48 700 SEK
• Regional differences: Data varies, but larger agricultural regions generally offer higher salaries

Education and qualifications

To work as a livestock inspector specializing in animal husbandry, a university degree in agriculture, animal science, or veterinary medicine is usually required. Practical experience in agriculture and good knowledge of animal welfare are often advantageous. Many employers also value relevant certifications or specialized courses in animal protection and inspection.

• Formal education: Bachelor's or master's degree in agriculture, animal science, or veterinary medicine (3–5 years)
• Certifications: Courses in animal protection, inspection techniques, and legislation
• Practical experience: Experience working on farms or in animal husbandry is recommended
• Prerequisites: Background in natural sciences or agriculture high school facilitates entry
• Tips: Engagement in industry organizations and continuing education increase employability

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, and opportunities for further training. Many employers also offer flexitime, work clothing, and sometimes access to a company car for field visits. Some workplaces may additionally provide extra vacation days and insurance covering both work and leisure.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a livestock inspector in animal husbandry varies depending on region and employer. Since the profession requires both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, there are often few applicants per position, but high competence is demanded. Major challenges include staying updated on legislation and industry regulations, handling difficult conversations with animal owners, and working efficiently under tight deadlines. Limited number of positions, especially in smaller regions, can also affect employment opportunities.

Tips for aspiring livestock inspectors in animal husbandry

To succeed as a livestock inspector in animal husbandry, it is good to combine thoroughness with good communication skills and a genuine interest in animal welfare. Being attentive and pedagogical helps during advisory situations and inspections in the field. Flexibility and the ability to quickly adapt to different environments and tasks are essential, as is managing stress and making decisions under time pressure. Engagement in the industry and ongoing training in new regulations and techniques increase chances of employment and career development. Finally, teamwork skills are highly valued, as the work often involves dialogue with colleagues, animal owners, and authorities.

Key facts about livestock inspector in animal husbandry

• Education level: Academic degree in agriculture or animal science
• Work environment: Combination of field visits and office work
• Typical employment: Permanent, often within the public sector
• Demand: About 360 job openings within the profession (2024)
• Gender differences: Women earn on average 85% of men's salary

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a livestock inspector specializing in animal husbandry can advance to more specialized roles, such as chief inspector, advisor in animal welfare, or project manager for larger inspection efforts. There are also opportunities to work with policy development or training within industry organizations and authorities. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, no specific forecast is available for this profession due to limited data, but within the group "Specialists and advisors in agriculture, etc.," there is a continuous demand for skills, with about 360 job openings reported in 2024. The demand is therefore considered stable, especially for individuals with solid education and practical experience.

Frequently asked questions about livestock inspector in animal husbandry

• What does a livestock inspector in animal husbandry earn?
  - The average salary is 45 700 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, education, and gender.
• What education is required to become a livestock inspector?
  - An academic degree in agriculture, animal science, or veterinary medicine is recommended.
• What is the work environment like for a livestock inspector?
  - The work environment is varied and includes both office work and field visits to farms and facilities.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, larger agricultural regions may offer slightly higher salaries and more positions.
• What personal qualities are important in this profession?
  - Attention to detail, good communication skills, responsiveness, and an interest in animal welfare are especially valuable.
• What are the job prospects for this profession?
  - No specific forecasts are available, but demand within the field remains stable with several job openings.
• What is the highest and lowest salary in the profession?
  - The highest salary is 49,300 SEK/month (male, private sector), and the lowest is 34,400 SEK/month (female, high school education).