Land surveyor

What does a Land Surveyor do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A land surveyor works to develop, lead, and streamline activities within agriculture and green industries. Tasks range from advising on crop cultivation and animal husbandry to financial planning, environmental work, and business management. Commonly, work also involves sustainability issues and the implementation of new technology and digital systems within agriculture. The work environment varies between office work, field visits, and practical work on farms, requiring both administrative and practical skills. Land surveyors are found in consulting firms, government agencies, agricultural cooperatives, on private farms, or as employees in larger companies within the agricultural sector.

Salary development over time

Land surveyors have experienced steady salary growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 40,300 SEK per month, increasing to 45 200 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 45 700 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 13.4% over three years. The most significant increase was between 2022 and 2023, likely due to increased demand for specialist skills in sustainable agriculture and a generally higher salary trend among specialists and advisors. However, the salary increase rate has plateaued somewhat recently, indicating a possible stabilization in the market. Differences in education level, employer, and region also influence salary levels within the profession.

Land Surveyor Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 45 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,400 SEK/month (female, private employee, high school education)
• Highest salary: 49,300 SEK/month (male, private employee, unspecified education)
• Hourly wage (average): 275 SEK/hour
• Women: 41 300 SEK/month (85% of men's salary)
• Men: 48 700 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on labor market and demand, especially between urban and rural areas.

Education and Qualifications

To work as a land surveyor, a university degree in agriculture and natural resources is required, often complemented by internships and specialized courses. The education provides both theoretical and practical knowledge in economics, technology, biology, and business management. Admission requirements vary, but a high school diploma with a focus on natural resources or equivalent is common as a base. Many also choose to deepen their expertise through certifications or further training in areas such as environmental management, plant protection, or digitalization.

• Formal degree: Land Surveyor program, 3 years (180 credits), often at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU)
• Internship: Included as a mandatory part of the education
• Prerequisites: High school diploma, preferably with a focus on natural resources
• Certifications: Opportunities for electives in areas such as environment, plant protection, or economics
• Courses and further education: Offered by universities and industry organizations

Common Benefits and Compensation

Land surveyors often have access to benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowances, holiday supplements, and insurance. Some employers also offer company cars, professional development, and flexible working hours. The benefits structure varies depending on whether the employer is public, private, or cooperative, but the sector generally offers stable working conditions and security.

Competition and Challenges

Competition for positions as a land surveyor can vary depending on region and specialization. While demand for qualified advisors and specialists in sustainable agriculture is increasing, there are also a limited number of training places and positions, especially in certain geographic areas. Challenges in the profession include staying updated on new technology, environmental regulations, and changing rules. Digitalization and climate change also influence the work content, demanding high flexibility and ongoing education.

Tips for those who want to become a Land Surveyor

To succeed as a land surveyor, it is helpful to have analytical skills and an interest in both technology and biology, which facilitates problem-solving in daily work. Being communicative and attentive is crucial for advising farmers and collaborating with colleagues across different fields. Building networks early through internships and industry contacts can open doors to future employment. Engagement in sustainability issues and a willingness to learn continuously make it easier to meet industry changes. Good organizational skills help manage multiple projects and responsibilities. Finally, resilience and curiosity are important, as the work often requires long-term thinking and a willingness to test new solutions.

Key facts about Land Surveyors

• Education level: University degree (3 years, SLU or equivalent)
• Work environment: Combination of office, field visits, and practical work
• Work form: Advising, leading, and project work within agriculture
• Demand: 360 available jobs in spring 2024
• Gender distribution: Men earn on average 15% more than women

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a land surveyor can advance to leadership roles such as operations manager, project manager, or advisor with specialized focus, e.g., crop production, animal husbandry, or environmental technology. Some choose to start their own business or work as consultants in agriculture and green industries. The forecast from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicates an uncertain outlook for specialists and advisors in agriculture due to limited data, but the sector is expected to continue requiring high competence and advice, especially in sustainability and digitalization. As of early 2024, there were 360 available jobs in the profession, indicating good opportunities for those with the right education and experience.

Frequently Asked Questions about Land Surveyors

• What is the average salary of a Land Surveyor?
  - The average salary for a land surveyor is 45 700 SEK per month.
• What are the requirements to become a Land Surveyor?
  - A university degree in agriculture, often three years at SLU, along with internships and sometimes certifications.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 85% of what men do in the profession.
• What is the job market outlook for Land Surveyors?
  - There are approximately 360 available jobs in spring 2024, but no precise forecast.
• What are the tasks of a Land Surveyor?
  - Tasks include advising, project management, environmental work, and financial planning within agriculture.
• How has the salary for Land Surveyors developed?
  - Salaries have increased by about 13% over three years, from 40,300 SEK to 45 700 SEK on average.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a Land Surveyor?
  - The highest salary is 49,300 SEK and the lowest is 34,400 SEK per month.