Reindeer owners salary

Salary and Working Conditions for Reindeer Herders

Working as a Reindeer Herder involves taking care of reindeer and ensuring their well-being. As part of the professional group "Other animal breeders and caretakers," the job requires knowledge of reindeer behavior and care, as well as a great deal of patience and dedication. For those considering entering this profession, it is important to be aware of the economic conditions and working conditions that come with the job.

What Does a Reindeer Herder Earn?

Reindeer herders have an average salary of 27 800 SEK per month. There has been an increase from 25 000 SEK in the latest measurement, indicating a salary improvement within the profession. Women in the profession earn an average of 27 700 SEK, while we lack specific data on men's salaries. Hourly employed Reindeer Herders have an average hourly wage of 167 SEK, based on 166 working hours per month.

Salary Variations within the Profession

There is a certain salary variation within the profession depending on employment form and educational level. The highest salary for a Reindeer Herder is 28600 SEK, which goes to a woman working as a privately employed official with an unspecified educational level. For men, the highest salary is 28100 SEK. On the other hand, the lowest salary for a woman in the same profession is 24100 SEK, with a pre-secondary education, while the lowest salary for a man is 24400 SEK.

Tasks and Responsibilities

As a Reindeer Herder, the main focus is to take care of the reindeer herd. This includes everything from ensuring that the animals have enough food and water to looking after their health and general well-being. The work can be both physically demanding and time challenging, especially during certain times of the year such as calving and hunting. It also requires a good knowledge of the areas where the reindeer graze, making understanding of nature and its variations an important part of the profession.

Education and Qualifications

There are no specific educational requirements to become a Reindeer Herder, but experience in animal care and an understanding of the reindeer's life cycle are very valuable. Many who work in the profession have grown up with reindeer husbandry and gained their knowledge through practical experience. For those interested in working as a Reindeer Herder, it may be advantageous to take courses in animal husbandry or similar subjects to gain a basic understanding of the work.

Future Prospects and Challenges

The future prospects for Reindeer Herders are relatively stable, although the profession can be affected by factors such as climate change and changes in grazing areas that can impact the movements and health of reindeer herds. Another challenge may be competition for grazing land, where collaboration with other landowners and users may be needed to ensure sufficient resources for the reindeer.

Working Conditions and Benefits

Working conditions for Reindeer Herders can vary depending on the season and the needs of the reindeer, often involving outdoor work in all weather conditions. Benefits associated with the profession may include access to land for grazing and sometimes subsidies or support to facilitate the work. However, traditional workplace benefits such as paid training or remote work are rare, as the work is so physically demanding and location-bound.

Concluding Reflection

Working as a Reindeer Herder is a profession based on tradition and a close relationship with nature. With an average salary of 27 800 SEK and the possibility of salary increases, it can be an attractive career choice for those passionate about animal care and living in harmony with nature. Despite the challenges, the work offers a unique opportunity to preserve and operate in a culture deeply rooted in the northern part of Sweden.