Reindeer herder

What does a Reindeer Herder do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A reindeer herder works with caring for, managing, and breeding reindeer, primarily within Sami communities in northern Sweden. Tasks include monitoring herds, feeding and vaccinating animals, as well as handling marking, slaughtering, and selling reindeer products. The work is often outdoors, requiring physical endurance and adaptability to changing weather conditions. Reindeer herders need good knowledge of animal behavior and natural conditions, as work frequently takes place in mountain and forest environments. Seasonal variations are significant, with intensive periods during moving and calving, and quieter phases at other times of the year.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, "Reindeer Herder salary" has ranged between 25,000 SEK and 27 800 SEK per month. In 2022, the average salary was 25,000 SEK, followed by a clear increase to 27 800 SEK in 2023, which corresponds to an increase of about 11 percent. Afterwards, the salary level has decreased to 26 300 SEK in 2024, marking a decline of just over 5 percent from the previous year. This variation can be explained by changes in demand for labor and market fluctuations, as well as year-specific factors such as reindeer availability and climate impact. Generally, the profession has a relatively stable salary structure, with minor variations depending on employer, season, and education level.

Reindeer Herder salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 26 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,100 SEK/month (female, high school education, different sectors)
• Highest salary: 28,000 SEK/month (female, private sector, post-secondary education of 3 years or more)
• Hourly wage: 158 SEK
• Gender differences: Women 26 300 SEK, highest woman 28,000 SEK, highest man 27,500 SEK, lowest man 25,400 SEK
• Regional differences: Some variation depending on Sami community and region, mainly concentrated in northern Sweden

Education and qualifications

To work as a reindeer herder, no formal university degree is usually required, but high school education focusing on natural resource management, animal care, or Sami industries is common. Practical experience and knowledge of Sami culture, natural conditions, and animal handling are crucial for success in the profession. Many reindeer herders learn the trade through family and relatives, but there are also opportunities for further education and specialized courses.

• High school: Natural resource program with specialization in Sami industry or animal care (3 years)
• Internship: Learning through work in Sami communities or with experienced reindeer herders
• Courses: Animal husbandry, vehicle handling, Sami culture courses
• Pre-requisites: Interest in animals, nature, and Sami traditions
• Tips: Engagement in Sami communities and networking provide valuable contacts and experience

Common benefits and compensations

Benefits for reindeer herders can include access to work vehicles, work clothing, and sometimes subsidized housing during seasonal work. Insurance for animals and work-related accidents is common, as well as support for further training and skills development within the Sami community or through industry organizations.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a reindeer herder is relatively limited since the profession is largely linked to membership in Sami communities and Sami identity. Challenges include climate change affecting grazing lands, predator pressure, and legal issues related to land use. Additionally, high physical endurance and flexibility are required, as workload varies greatly between seasons. The future of the profession is also influenced by political decisions and changing conditions for Sami industries.

Tips for aspiring reindeer herders

To succeed as a reindeer herder, it is important to have a genuine interest in animals, nature, and Sami culture. Endurance is crucial, as the work often involves long days and physically demanding tasks. Good teamwork skills are essential, since much of the work is done in groups and cooperation within Sami communities is central. Flexibility helps, as tasks vary significantly between seasons and weather conditions. It is also wise to seek internships and network with experienced herders, as practical experience and local knowledge are highly valued. Showing respect for traditions and being open to learning from older colleagues builds trust and strengthens your role in the profession.

Key facts about Reindeer Herders

• Education level: Usually high school education, practical experience is crucial
• Work environment: Outdoors, mountain and forest environments, physically demanding
• Work form: Seasonal variation, often within Sami communities
• Demand: Limited and linked to Sami industries, 360 job openings in the profession
• Special skills: Animal handling, natural knowledge, Sami traditions

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years as a reindeer herder, responsibilities can expand to leadership roles within the Sami community, such as supervisor or manager of larger herds. Experience can also open opportunities to participate in projects related to conservation, research, or education within Sami industries. The Swedish Employment Service indicates that demand for reindeer herders remains relatively stable, although the number of positions is limited and mainly concentrated in northern Sweden. Development is affected by climate, predator policies, and land use laws, but the industry is expected to continue needing both experienced and younger herders to carry on the tradition.

Frequently asked questions about Reindeer Herders

• What does a Reindeer Herder earn?
  - A reindeer herder has an average salary of 26 300 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, education, and region.
• How does one become a reindeer herder?
  - Most commonly, by attending a natural resource high school with a focus on Sami industries and gaining practical experience through work in Sami communities.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Women have an average of 26 300 SEK, the highest woman earning 28,000 SEK, the highest man 27,500 SEK, and the lowest man 25,400 SEK.
• What are the job responsibilities of a reindeer herder?
  - Tasks include caring for, moving, marking, slaughtering reindeer, and maintaining equipment and vehicles.
• What benefits are common?
  - Benefits include work clothing, vehicles, insurance, and sometimes accommodation during seasonal work.
• What are the future prospects?
  - Demand remains relatively stable but limited, with about 360 job openings in the profession according to recent data.
• Can you work as a reindeer herder without Sami background?
  - Most are members of Sami communities, but opportunities may exist for others with relevant education and experience.