Groundwork workers

What does a land development worker do? – Tasks and work environment

Land development workers create, maintain, and repair infrastructure such as roads, parks, squares, walkways, bike paths, and other ground surfaces. The profession often involves preparing the ground for construction, laying tiles, asphalt, drainage, and sometimes working with green areas. The work environment is physically demanding and outdoor-based, with varying workplaces depending on project size and geographic location. Work is often carried out in teams under the supervision of foremen, focusing on safety and quality.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, land development workers have seen a positive salary trend. In 2022, the average salary was 35,600 SEK per month, increasing to 38 400 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary reached 38 700 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 8.7% over the period. This salary increase can partly be explained by increased demand for labor in the construction sector, driven by infrastructure projects and a generally strong building climate. However, the growth has somewhat plateaued in the last year, indicating a slowdown but continued stability at a higher level. Differences in education, experience, and regional demand have also influenced salary development.

Land Development Worker salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 38 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 26,800 SEK/month (female, public sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 42,100 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education <3 years)
• Hourly wage: 233 SEK
• Women: 35 300 SEK/month (91% of men's salary)
• Men: 38 900 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salary variations may occur depending on project location and local labor market conditions.

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a land development worker often goes through the construction and civil engineering program in upper secondary school with a focus on civil works, but there are also opportunities for adult education and internal trainee programs with larger employers. Experience from the construction or civil engineering industry is highly valued, and some employers require specific certifications for machinery or work environment safety. Practical skills, accuracy, and understanding of drawings are central qualifications.

• Secondary education: Construction and civil engineering program, 3 years
• Adult vocational training: 1–2 years
• Certificates: Machinery operator license, Work on roads, Construction site safety
• Internship: Often mandatory in training
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition and teamwork skills

Common benefits and compensations

Land development workers are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, insurance, and paid overtime. It is common to have wellness allowances, work clothing, and opportunities for further training in safety and machinery handling. Some employers also offer travel allowances and per diems when working at different locations.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for land development workers is characterized by a balanced supply, with medium-sized opportunities nationwide. Despite increased long-term demand, competition for the most attractive jobs can be tough, especially in regions with many ongoing infrastructure projects. Challenges in the profession include physically demanding environments, weather-dependent tasks, and the need for continuous skill development. Technological changes and new machinery also require adaptability. For those seeking advancement, engagement and willingness to stay updated on industry developments are essential.

Tips for those who want to become a land development worker

To succeed as a land development worker, it is good to have a practical mindset and enjoy outdoor work. Being precise helps with handling drawings and measurement tools, while good physical condition facilitates physically demanding tasks. Flexibility is a strength since tasks vary between projects and weather conditions. Teamwork skills are crucial, as work often occurs in teams, and showing initiative makes it easier to gain the trust of supervisors. Finally, a sense of responsibility is important to ensure safety and quality at the workplace.

Key facts about Land Development Workers

• Education level: Secondary education (construction and civil engineering program)
• Work environment: Outdoors, often physically demanding
• Work form: Project-based and team work
• Demand: Medium, with expected increase over the next five years
• Special skills: Machinery operator certificates and safety training

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience, opportunities open for land development workers to advance to roles such as supervisor, machine operator, or specialized technicians within civil works. For those pursuing further education, there are also possibilities to become site managers or project leaders in construction and civil engineering. The Employment Service's forecasts show that job opportunities are medium today, but demand is expected to increase over the next five years. With 379 job openings nationwide, the labor market is active, especially in areas with planned or ongoing large infrastructure projects. The industry values experience, further training, and certifications, which provide good prospects for long-term career development.

Common questions about Land Development Workers

• What does a Land Development Worker earn?
  - The average salary is 38 700 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, education, and region.
• How do you become a Land Development Worker?
  - Most commonly through the construction and civil engineering program in upper secondary school, but adult education and internships are also pathways into the profession.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 35 300 SEK per month, which corresponds to 91% of men's salaries.
• What tasks are included?
  - Site preparation, paving, drainage, asphalt work, and work with green areas are common tasks.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The Employment Service assesses the opportunities as medium today, with an expected increase in demand over the next five years.
• What is the highest and lowest salary?
  - The highest salary is 42,100 SEK, the lowest is 26,800 SEK, depending on gender, education, and sector.
• Is certification required?
  - Yes, certificates for machinery, safety, and work on roads are often required.