Teacher, nature management

What does a teacher in natural resource management do? – Tasks and work environment

A teacher in natural resource management is responsible for educating students in subjects related to agriculture, forestry, animal care, and other natural resource fields. The tasks include both theoretical and practical teaching, with a strong focus on conveying knowledge about sustainable methods and industry-specific techniques. Teaching often takes place near the school’s farm, greenhouse, or animal facilities, meaning the work environment can be both classroom-based and outdoors in varying weather conditions. Supervising students during practical sessions and collaborating with local businesses or farms are also important parts of the role.

Salary development over time

The salary for teachers in natural resource management has shown stable and positive growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 39,100 SEK per month, increasing to 40 200 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has risen further to 41 600 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 6.4% over three years. This growth reflects increased demand for vocational teachers in natural resource management, partly due to a shortage of qualified teachers and the growing need for skills in sustainable farming and forestry. Salary development is also influenced by education level, sector, and experience, with higher education and private employment often leading to more favorable salary progression.

Teachers in natural resource management salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 41 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,400 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, upper secondary education)
• Highest salary: 47,600 SEK/month (male, privately employed, doctoral degree)
• Hourly wage: 250 SEK
• Women/men: Women earn 41 300 SEK, men 41 800 SEK (women 99% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on employer and region, with somewhat higher wages in metropolitan areas and within the private sector.

Education and qualifications

To work as a teacher in natural resource management, a vocational teacher degree with specialization in natural resource subjects is usually required, often supplemented by industry-specific experience. The educational pathway is clearly regulated and includes both academic studies and practical training at the workplace. Those with work experience in areas such as farming or animal care may also have opportunities to acquire pedagogical competence through additional training.

• Vocational teacher degree: 3.5 years at university/higher education, with specialization in natural resource management
• Pedagogical supplementation: Possible for experienced professionals through special programs (1–1.5 years)
• Industry experience: Practical experience in agriculture, forestry, or animal care is often a requirement
• Certifications: For machinery, animal handling, or plant protection, depending on specialization
• Prerequisites: Upper secondary diploma, often from a natural resource program or similar

Common benefits and compensations

Teachers in natural resource management are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, extra vacation days, and opportunities for professional development. Access to work clothes and equipment for practical tasks is common, as are pension contributions and various insurances through the employer. Many workplaces also provide subsidized lunches or opportunities to utilize school products.

Competition and challenges

Despite good employment prospects within the profession, the recruitment situation is paradoxical: there is a shortage of qualified teachers, while the proportion of part-time workers and those leaving the profession is relatively high. Challenges include staying updated with new techniques and regulations within natural resource management, as well as meeting the diverse needs of students. Workload can be uneven, especially during periods with a lot of practical activities. At the same time, having broad industry experience and pedagogical skills is a competitive advantage, making the most qualified often have more opportunities on the job market.

Tips for those who want to become a teacher in natural resource management

To succeed as a teacher in natural resource management, it’s good to combine subject knowledge with pedagogical skills and a high level of engagement. Flexibility and problem-solving skills are helpful when teaching switches between classroom and practical environments. Good teamwork skills are valuable, as the work often involves collaboration with other teachers and industry contacts. Being curious about new methods and willing to further educate oneself provides advantages in a profession where development moves quickly. Patience is another important trait, especially when working with students from diverse backgrounds and with different prerequisites. Finally, strong communication skills are appreciated, both in the teaching role and in interactions with parents and partners.

Key facts about teachers in natural resource management

• Education level: Vocational teacher degree with specialization in natural resource management (3.5 years)
• Work environment: Combined indoor and outdoor environment, often practical
• Work arrangement: Full-time/part-time, employment within municipality, state, or private sector
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide
• Special skills: Practical industry experience and certifications are often advantageous

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a teacher in natural resource management, opportunities may open for greater responsibility, such as program coordinator, team leader, or subject supervisor. It is also common for teachers to engage in school development projects or further education in areas like organic production or animal health. According to the Employment Service, job opportunities are large, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Despite some recruitment difficulties within the profession, the job market is stable, with currently 434 available jobs in the field. Those wishing to broaden their careers can also work in adult education, advisory roles, or within industry organizations.

Frequently asked questions about teachers in natural resource management

• What does a teacher in natural resource management earn?
  - The average salary is 41 600 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, education, and sector.
• How does one become a teacher in natural resource management?
  - A vocational teacher degree with specialization in natural resource management, often combined with practical industry experience, is required.
• What is the highest salary for a teacher in natural resource management?
  - The highest salary is 47,600 SEK per month, often for privately employed teachers with doctoral degrees.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Women earn on average 41 300 SEK, which is 99% of men's salary of 41 800 SEK.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The labor market is considered good with significant opportunities for employment and unchanged demand in the coming years.
• What types of work environments are common?
  - Teachers in natural resource management work both in classrooms and outdoor environments, often near animals and nature.