What does a park technician do? – Tasks and work environment
A park technician works with planning, establishing, maintaining, and caring for green environments in public and private sectors. Tasks include pruning trees and shrubs, planting flowers and perennials, mowing, weed control, and repairing and inspecting pathways and playgrounds. The role also requires using and maintaining machinery and tools, collaborating with colleagues, and sometimes interacting with the public. The work environment is primarily outdoors and often involves physical work in varying weather conditions.
Salary development over time
The salary for park technicians has shown a stable but moderate increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 29,100 SEK per month, increasing to 30 500 SEK in 2023 and reaching 30 800 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 5.8% during the period. The salary increase was somewhat higher between 2022 and 2023 than between 2023 and 2024, reflecting a generally slowed wage growth in green professions. The reasons for this cautious salary development are mainly ongoing high competition for jobs and an oversupply of trained personnel, reducing upward pressure on wages. Nevertheless, salaries have followed the overall trend for similar roles within municipal and private park management.
Park technician salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 30 800 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 26,700 SEK/month (female, private sector employee)
- 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 salary)
- Regional differences: Salary variations occur but are generally small across regions
Education and qualifications
To work as a park technician, a high school education in horticulture, landscaping, or equivalent experience is typically required. Many employers also value practical experience in green space maintenance and machinery handling. Further education, certifications, and specialized courses can enhance employability and open doors to more qualified assignments.
- High school education: Natural Resources Program, horticulture specialization (3 years)
- Vocational college: Park and Garden Technician (1–2 years)
- Certifications: Chainsaw license, machinery operator certificates
- Internships: Work placements or internships during training
- Experience: Previous work in gardening, landscaping, or green space maintenance is advantageous
Park technicians often collaborate with landscape architects and urban planners, providing opportunities to influence the design of public environments early in the planning process. This cooperation makes the profession especially exciting for those who want to combine practical work with creative elements.
Common benefits and compensations
Park technicians are often offered wellness allowances, work clothing and tools, as well as insurance through their employer. In the municipal sector, pension contributions, extra vacation days, and opportunities for skills development are also common. Some employers may provide subsidized meals and flexible working hours depending on the season.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as a park technician is relatively high due to an oversupply of trained professionals and limited new hires. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, job opportunities are expected to be limited nationally, with demand remaining unchanged over the next five years. Challenges mainly involve differentiating oneself through specialized skills and experience, as well as being flexible regarding location and tasks. Seasonal variations also affect job availability, with more opportunities in spring and summer. Currently, there are 360 available positions in the profession, providing some mobility in the job market.
Tips for aspiring park technicians
To succeed as a park technician, it is beneficial to combine practical skills with strong teamwork abilities. A genuine interest in plants and outdoor environments facilitates learning and makes it easier to acquire new knowledge. Flexibility is important, as tasks vary by season and project. Precision and responsibility are valued by employers, especially when operating machinery and following safety protocols. Being service-oriented helps in interactions with the public and colleagues. Engagement in further training and specialized courses can also open pathways to more advanced roles and increase the chances of permanent employment.
Key facts about Park technicians
- Education level: High school or vocational college
- Typical work environment: Outdoors, physical work
- Employment type: Full-time or seasonal, often daytime
- Demand: Limited job opportunities, oversupply of qualified workers
- Number of available positions: 360 within the profession
Career paths and future outlooks
After three to five years as a park technician, opportunities exist to advance to roles such as supervisor, site manager, or specialized gardener. Further education can lead to positions like green space manager or consultant within park and outdoor environment planning. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast for landscape gardeners, the job market is stable but competitive, with demand expected to remain unchanged over five years. Broadening skills in machinery operation, plant knowledge, or project management can improve future prospects. Regional differences exist, but generally, opportunities are better in larger cities and growing municipalities.
Frequently asked questions about Park technicians
- What does a park technician earn?
- The average salary is 30 800 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience and employer.
- Are there significant salary differences between regions?
- Regional differences exist but are generally small; metropolitan areas may offer slightly higher salaries.
- What education is required to become a park technician?
- The most common pathway is a high school education in horticulture or vocational college with a focus on parks and gardens.
- What is the gender distribution within the profession?
- Men have a slightly higher average salary (31 200 SEK) than women (29 900 SEK), with women earning approximately 96% of men's salaries.
- What are the future prospects for park technicians?
- The job market is competitive with limited immediate opportunities, but long-term demand remains steady.
- What personal qualities are important for a park technician?
- Attention to detail, teamwork skills, flexibility, and an interest in plants are important qualities.
- What is the hourly wage for a park technician?
- The average hourly wage is 185 SEK.
