How much does a Reindeer owners make

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  2. Reindeer owners
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Reindeer owners

26 300 kr

Other animal breeders and animal caretakers

25 100 - 28 000 kr / month

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What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Reindeer owners

Average salary 26 300 kr
Males 0 kr
Females 26 300 kr
1 Likes 0 Comments 7 Vacant jobs ->

What does a reindeer herder do? – Tasks and work environment

A reindeer herder is responsible for managing, caring for, and developing a reindeer herd. Tasks include feeding, health checks, tagging, moving reindeer between grazing areas, and administrative work related to animal husbandry. The work is closely connected to nature and often involves long days outdoors in varying weather conditions. Physical endurance and the ability to work independently are crucial, as the work environment is often sparsely populated and access to services may be limited.

Salary development over time

Reindeer herders have experienced fluctuating salary trends over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 25,000 SEK per month, rising to 27 800 SEK in 2023. However, in 2024, the average salary has decreased to 26 300 SEK, a drop of approximately 5.4% compared to the previous year. This variation may be due to changes in market conditions, seasonal fluctuations, weather-related challenges, and access to grazing land. Despite the decrease this year, the profession has historically had a stable salary development but is clearly influenced by external factors such as climate and demand for reindeer products.

Reindeer herder salary – a complete overview

  • Average salary: 26 300 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 25,100 SEK/month (female, high school education)
  • Highest salary: 28,000 SEK/month (female, post-secondary education 3+ years)
  • Hourly wage: 158 SEK/hour
  • Gender differences: Women 26 300 SEK/month, men 27,500 SEK/month (highest), 25,400 SEK/month (lowest)
  • Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a reindeer herder often involves practical experience and industry-specific knowledge rather than formal education. Many reindeer herders inherit their profession and acquire knowledge through intergenerational learning, but there are also relevant courses in animal husbandry and natural resource management. Advanced knowledge in ecology, economics, and animal health is advantageous, especially for those aiming to develop a sustainable and profitable business.

  • Formal education: Natural resource programs with a focus on animal husbandry (3 years)
  • Certifications: Courses in animal health, environment, and entrepreneurship can be valuable
  • Internship/trainee: Apprenticeships with established reindeer herders are common
  • Prerequisites: Interest in animals and nature, and good physical health
  • Tips for choosing: Engagement in Sami communities and networks provide valuable contacts

Reindeer herding is not just a profession but also an important part of Sami culture and identity. Many herders combine traditional knowledge with modern technology, such as GPS tracking of reindeer, to meet both ecological and commercial challenges.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Reindeer herders can often access various benefits, such as subsidized work clothing, vehicles, and machinery, as well as insurance covering both personnel and animals. Some employers or Sami communities also offer skill development and support for investments in new technology or equipment. Compensation for damages to the reindeer herd may sometimes be provided in cases such as predator attacks.

Competition and challenges

The profession of reindeer herding is characterized by high competition for grazing land and constant changes in environmental and weather conditions. Climate change, predator issues, and increased sustainability demands require adaptability and long-term planning. Limited access to land and legislation regarding reindeer herding mean that entry into the profession is often regulated through membership in a Sami community. Technological development and digitalization offer new opportunities but also require investments and adjustments in working methods.

Tips for those interested in becoming a reindeer herder

To succeed as a reindeer herder, patience and interest in animals and nature are essential. Building a network within Sami communities and participating in industry gatherings provide valuable insights and collaboration opportunities. Strong physical endurance and the ability to work outdoors under tough conditions are vital, as is analytical skills for making sound decisions regarding animal health and finances. Flexibility and openness to new technology, such as GPS and digital tools, can facilitate daily work. Finally, showing respect for tradition and culture is important, as the profession is deeply rooted in Sami values and lifestyle.

Key facts about reindeer herders

  • Education level: High school or post-secondary education in natural resource management
  • Work environment: Outdoors, often in mountain and forest areas
  • Work form: Self-employed or member of a Sami community
  • Demand: 360 available jobs according to current statistics
  • Special skills: Animal husbandry, ecology, and traditional knowledge

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, reindeer herders can advance to greater responsibilities within their Sami community or take on leadership roles in herd management and development. Some choose to specialize in areas such as animal health, marketing of reindeer products, or ecological sustainability. According to the Employment Service, future prospects are relatively stable but are affected by climate change and political decisions regarding land use. The profession also offers opportunities to combine reindeer herding with tourism or educational initiatives related to Sami culture and industry.

Frequently asked questions about reindeer herders

  • What does a reindeer herder earn?
    - The average salary for a reindeer herder is 26 300 SEK per month.
  • How does one become a reindeer herder?
    - Most commonly, by attending a natural resource program and gaining practical experience, often through family or a Sami community.
  • Are there differences in salaries between men and women?
    - Yes, the highest salary for women is 28,000 SEK and for men 27,500 SEK; the lowest salary is 25,100 SEK (women) and 25,400 SEK (men).
  • What are the requirements to work as a reindeer herder?
    - Membership in a Sami community and knowledge of animal husbandry and natural resource management are usually necessary.
  • What are the biggest challenges in the profession?
    - Climate change, predators, and competition for land are some of the major challenges.
  • What does the job market look like for reindeer herders?
    - There are 360 available jobs within the profession according to the latest statistics.

Richard Andersson

Richard Andersson - 2025-07-10 16:28:19

Occupation
Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Reindeer owners is 28000 kr. This salary belongs to a woman working in the Privately employed workers with a post-secondary education, 3 years or more. The highest salary for a man in this profession is 27500 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Reindeer owners is 25100 kr. This salary belongs to a woman also working in the Multiple sectors. The lowest salary for a man in this profession is 25400 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
18-24 23900 kr 25400 kr
25-34 26000 kr 26800 kr
Snitt 25400 kr 26300 kr
* Empty columns indicate that the statistical data was insufficient to allow for a statistically significant conclusion.
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession Reindeer owners has the SSYK code 6129, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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