What does a park manager do? – Tasks and work environment
A park manager is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and development of parks, green areas, and often playgrounds or nature reserves. Tasks include planning seasonal work, personnel management, budget responsibility, and contact with contractors and authorities. The role involves ongoing supervision of green spaces, trees, plantings, and often machinery management. The work environment is both administrative and practical, taking place outdoors in varying weather and indoors with planning and documentation. Safety, sustainability, and accessibility are central aspects of daily work.
Salary development over time
The salary for park managers has shown a steady positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average was 29,100 SEK per month, increasing to 30 500 SEK in 2023 and further to 30 800 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 5.8% during the period. The salary increase was somewhat stronger between 2022 and 2023 but has plateaued slightly afterward. The development reflects, to some extent, the general wage trends in the public sector and green space professions, where demand for qualified leadership and increased sustainability requirements have influenced salary formation. Nevertheless, the growth rate is somewhat lower than for many other managerial professions, which may be explained by a surplus of labor within the profession.
Park manager salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 30 800 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 26,700 SEK/month (female, private sector)
- Highest salary: 34,600 SEK/month (female, municipal sector)
- Hourly wage (average): 185 SEK
- Gender differences: Women earn 29 900 SEK, men 31 200 SEK – women earn 96% of men's salaries
- Regional differences: Often higher salaries in larger cities and regions with greater competition for labor
Education and qualifications
To work as a park manager, a background in horticulture, park management, or related fields is usually required, often at high school or college level. Practical experience in green space maintenance and leadership is highly valued, and many employers prefer candidates who combine theoretical knowledge with several years of professional experience. Additional courses in work environment, project management, or machinery operation are also common.
- High school education: Specialization in horticulture or natural resource management, 3 years
- Vocational college: Programs in park and garden management, 1–2 years
- Certifications: Courses in work environment, plant knowledge, or machinery safety
- Internship: Recommended for gaining relevant experience in park operations
- Prerequisites: Often B driver's license and good physical condition
Working as a park manager often involves great variation between seasons – from winter planning to intensive outdoor work in spring and summer. The role requires flexibility and the ability to handle unexpected situations quickly, especially under extreme weather conditions.
Common benefits and compensations
Park managers are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, and generous vacation terms. Additional compensations may include overtime pay for irregular hours, work clothing, and in some cases opportunities for skills development. Access to company cars or work vehicles is common, especially in larger municipalities or regions.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as a park manager is considered relatively high, as there is a nationwide surplus of trained labor within the profession. According to the Employment Service's forecast, job opportunities are limited, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Challenges in the profession include requirements for broad skills in leadership and practical work, as well as the ability to handle rapid changes in the work environment. Seasonal variations and tight budgets can create stress and demand high planning skills. To improve job prospects, further training and specialization are often necessary.
Tips for aspiring park managers
To succeed as a park manager, it's good to combine leadership skills with a genuine interest in outdoor environments and sustainable development. Being organized and having good planning skills helps when coordinating complex tasks across seasons. Flexibility and resilience are important qualities, as workdays can change quickly due to weather or urgent park repairs. Communication skills and the ability to collaborate with colleagues and external stakeholders are also valuable. Technical interest and machinery handling skills are advantages, as well as being solution-oriented with an eye for detail in overseeing and developing green spaces.
Key facts about park managers
- Salary range: 26,700–34,600 SEK/month
- Average salary: 30 800 SEK/month
- Education level: High school or vocational college in horticulture/parks
- Work environment: Varied between outdoor and office work
- Job market: High competition, 360 job openings nationwide
Career paths and outlook
After three to five years as a park manager, there are opportunities to advance to larger responsibilities, such as area manager or head of a larger park administration. Some progress to project management for urban development or specialists in biodiversity and sustainability. The Employment Service's forecast indicates that the job market for landscape architects and park managers is characterized by limited opportunities and a surplus of labor nationwide. Demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, which may keep competition high. Specialization and further education are key strategies for long-term career development in the field.
Frequently asked questions about park managers
- What does a park manager earn?
- The average salary for a park manager is 30 800 SEK per month in 2024.
- Are there salary differences between women and men?
- Yes, women earn on average 29 900 SEK and men 31 200 SEK per month – women earn approximately 96% of men's salaries.
- What education is required to become a park manager?
- Typically, high school education in horticulture or natural resource management, or vocational college with a focus on park management.
- What does the job market look like for park managers?
- The job market is characterized by high competition and a national surplus of trained labor, with approximately 360 job openings in the profession.
- What are the most common job duties?
- Managing park operations, personnel responsibility, planning maintenance, and developing green spaces.
- What is the highest and lowest salary for a park manager?
- The highest salary is 34,600 SEK (female, municipal sector), and the lowest is 26,700 SEK (female, private sector).
- Are there regional salary differences?
- Yes, salaries tend to be higher in larger cities and regions with greater competition for labor.
