Forest worker, clearing out

What does a forestry worker in clearing work do? – Tasks and work environment

A forestry worker specializing in clearing work primarily maintains and develops forest environments by removing unwanted vegetation, thinning young forests, and creating better conditions for desired tree species to grow. Tasks include using brush saws, chainsaws, and other hand tools, often in varying weather conditions and on difficult terrain. The work is mostly outdoors and involves physical challenges and a significant safety responsibility. Clearing workers often work in small teams or independently, and the work environment can be demanding and close to nature, with long days during certain periods of the year.

Salary development over time

The salary for a forestry worker in clearing work has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 29,600 SEK per month, rising to 30 200 SEK in 2023 and reaching 31 800 SEK in 2024. This increase corresponds to a total salary change of approximately 7.4% over three years, slightly above inflation and reflecting ongoing demand for labor in the sector. The salary increase can also be linked to higher skill requirements, changing working conditions, and a certain shortage of trained forestry workers, which drives up salary levels. The fact that women in the profession earn a higher average salary than men is unusual in the industry and may be due to a combination of experience, education level, and employer type. Overall, the trend shows that the profession is increasingly valued, especially with a growing focus on sustainable forestry practices.

Forestry worker, clearing work salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 31 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,500 SEK/month (men), 32,400 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 38,100 SEK/month (men), 34,900 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 191 SEK
• Women/men: Women earn 33 400 SEK (105% of men's 31 700 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary slightly depending on location, but larger differences are seen between employers and employment types.

Education and qualifications

To work as a forestry worker in clearing work, a high school education in forestry is usually required, but it is also possible to train via adult education or through specialized courses. Practical experience is highly valuable, and some employers may offer internal training. Good physical fitness, safety awareness, and the ability to handle machinery and work independently in changing environments are important.

• High school education: Forestry program (3 years)
• Vocational courses and certificates: Brush saw license, chainsaw license
• Internships: Often included during training
• Adult education: Possible for adults to further train in forestry
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition and basic interest in nature are recommended

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to base salary, benefits such as per diems for work in other locations, compensation for work clothing and protective gear, and wellness allowances are often offered. In some cases, employers may also offer bonuses tied to performance or seasonal work, as well as opportunities for further training and certification within the profession.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a forestry worker in clearing work is relatively low, as demand is good and many leave the profession each year. At the same time, challenges include physically demanding work environments, risk of injuries, and the need to constantly stay updated on safety regulations and new work methods. Seasonal variations can also mean periods of high workload, especially in spring and autumn when clearing needs are greatest. Technological developments in forestry may require learning new machinery and digital tools, which demands flexibility and willingness to further educate oneself.

Tips for those who want to become a forestry worker in clearing work

To succeed as a forestry worker in clearing work, a combination of physical endurance and a genuine interest in nature is beneficial. Being careful and safety-conscious is crucial, as the work often involves heavy machinery and challenging environments. Independence and initiative make tasks easier, as many are carried out alone or in small teams, and good teamwork skills are appreciated when working with colleagues. An interest in technology and machinery is also important, as modern forest management requires familiarity with various tools and equipment. Finally, being flexible and able to adapt to different tasks and weather conditions is an advantage for thriving and developing in the profession.

Key facts about Forestry Worker, clearing work

• Average salary: 31 800 SEK/month
• Education: High school education in forestry or equivalent
• Work environment: Outdoors, physically demanding, independent
• Demand: Great job opportunities, 360 available positions nationwide
• Gender difference: Women earn on average 5% more than men in the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years of experience, a forestry worker in clearing work can advance to supervisory roles, such as team leader or instructor. There are also opportunities to specialize in machinery forestry or further educate as a forest machine operator, forest technician, or forest management planner. According to the Swedish Employment Agency, the outlook is good with strong demand and stable employment prospects over the next five years. The recruitment situation is characterized by many leaving the profession, creating opportunities for new workers. Digitalization and technological development are expected to influence the profession, but the need for practical clearing and forest care remains.

Frequently asked questions about Forestry Worker, clearing work

• What does a forestry worker, clearing work, earn?
  - A forestry worker in clearing work has an average monthly salary of 31 800 SEK.
• How does the salary differ between men and women in the profession?
  - Women earn an average of 33 400 SEK while men earn 31 700 SEK on average, which means women earn approximately 105% of men's salary.
• What education is required to become a forestry worker in clearing work?
  - Usually, a high school education in forestry, supplemented with certificates for brush saw and chainsaw operation, is required.
• What is the job market like for forestry workers in clearing work?
  - The demand is high, and currently there are 360 job openings nationwide according to the Swedish Employment Agency.
• What are the biggest challenges of the profession?
  - Physically demanding work, safety risks, and seasonal variations are some of the main challenges.
• How has the salary development for forestry workers in clearing work progressed over time?
  - Salaries have increased from 29,600 SEK in 2022 to 31 800 SEK in 2024, representing a 7.4% increase.
• Are there opportunities for further education and career advancement?
  - Yes, there are good opportunities to further educate oneself and take on more responsibility or specialize within the forestry sector.