Measuring assistant, forestry

What does a survey assistant in forestry do? – Tasks and work environment

A survey assistant in forestry primarily works with measuring and registering timber, as well as documenting volumes and qualities of forest raw material during harvesting or delivery. Tasks include using measurement equipment, reading dimension data, and often working closely with machine operators, forestry machinery operators, and transporters. The work often takes place outdoors in varying weather conditions and can be physically demanding, requiring movement in terrain and handling measurement instruments. Precision and responsibility are crucial, as the measurement results form the basis for economic settlements and planning in forestry.

Salary development over time

The salary for a survey assistant in forestry has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 29,600 SEK per month, increasing to 30 200 SEK in 2023, which is about a 2% increase. In 2024, the average salary continued upward to 31 800 SEK, representing an additional increase of approximately 5.3% compared to the previous year. This trend reflects high demand for workers in the profession, as well as increased focus on quality assurance and digitization within the forestry industry. It is also worth noting that female survey assistants on average earn more than their male colleagues, which is uncommon in many practical professions. The trend indicates that the role of survey assistant is becoming more specialized, and employers are willing to pay more for experienced and competent staff.

Survey assistant, forestry salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 31 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,500 SEK/month (male), 32,400 SEK/month (female)
• Highest salary: 38,100 SEK/month (male), 34,900 SEK/month (female)
• Hourly wage (average): 191 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 105% of men's salary (men: 31 700 SEK, women: 33 400 SEK)
• Regional differences: No specific data available

Education and qualifications

To work as a survey assistant in forestry, a high school education in natural resources or forestry is usually required, but internal training and internships are also common. Some employers require shorter post-secondary courses or certifications related to measurement and quality assurance. Practical forestry experience is often advantageous, and new hires typically receive internal onboarding to learn routines and equipment. Good physical condition and the ability to work outdoors are important qualifications.

• High school education: Natural resources program with a forestry focus (3 years)
• Certifications: Courses in timber measurement or forestry quality assurance
• Internships: On-the-job training or internships within forestry
• Prerequisites: Basic mathematics and computer skills are advantageous
• Tips: Experience with forestry machinery or logistics facilitates entry into the profession

Common benefits and compensations

For survey assistants in forestry, benefits such as per diems when working away from home, wellness allowances, and sometimes access to work clothing and protective gear are common. Some employers also offer training opportunities and extra leave during low season. Additional compensation for inconvenient working hours may apply depending on the workplace and collective agreements.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a survey assistant in forestry is considered moderate, as there are a relatively large number of vacancies while many leave the profession. The demand for labor is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years according to the Swedish Public Employment Service, but recruitment is often challenging due to the difficulty of finding the right skills. Adapting to technological changes, such as digital measurement tools and new quality standards, requires ongoing skills development. Physically demanding environments and seasonal variations can also impact workload. However, for those who are flexible and willing to further their education, good employment and development opportunities exist within the profession.

Tips for those who want to become a forestry survey assistant

To succeed as a survey assistant in forestry, it’s good to combine accuracy and responsibility with an interest in forest and nature. Strong physical fitness helps in tough weather conditions and difficult terrain, while good communication skills facilitate cooperation with colleagues and machine operators. Technical curiosity makes it easier to handle digital measurement tools and software, and flexibility is an asset when work sites and tasks vary. Being solution-oriented is also valuable, as unexpected situations often arise in the field. Finally, patience and perseverance contribute to maintaining high quality even during long workdays.

Key facts about survey assistants in forestry

• Education level: Usually high school education (natural resources/forestry)
• Work environment: Outdoor work in varying terrain and weather
• Demand: Large opportunities for employment nationwide
• Gender distribution: Women on average earn more than men
• Number of vacancies: 360 within the forestry workforce

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years of experience as a forestry survey assistant, there are opportunities to advance to more specialized roles, such as measurement supervisor, timber grader responsible for quality assurance, or team leader for a measurement team. Further education can also open pathways to positions in forest planning, logistics, or forest technology. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s job forecast, employment opportunities remain strong, and demand is expected to stay steady over five years. However, a paradox exists as many leave the profession, leading employers to frequently seek new staff. Digitalization and automation create new demands but also new opportunities for those willing to develop within the industry.

Frequently asked questions about forestry survey assistants

• What does a survey assistant in forestry earn?
  - A survey assistant in forestry has an average salary of 31 800 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and employer.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn an average of 33 400 SEK while men earn 31 700 SEK, which means women have approximately 5% higher salary.
• What education is required to become a forestry survey assistant?
  - High school education in natural resources with a forestry focus is most common, but there are also shorter courses and internal training programs.
• What does the job market look like for survey assistants?
  - Opportunities are plentiful, and the recruitment need is expected to remain high in the coming years.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a forestry survey assistant?
  - The highest salary is 38,100 SEK and the lowest is 31,500 SEK depending on gender, education, and employment type.
• What personal qualities are important in this profession?
  - Accuracy, responsibility, good physical condition, and an interest in technology and nature are key qualities.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - There is no specific data available on regional salary differences for forestry survey assistants.