Salary progression Lumberjack

Average salary 33 600 kr
Males 33 700 kr
Females 33 400 kr

What does a forest worker do? – Tasks and work environment

A forest worker works with felling and processing trees in a forest environment, often as part of a team. The profession also includes clearing, planting, and some machine operation, but the classic work involves manual tree felling with a chainsaw. Forest workers mainly work outdoors, sometimes under demanding weather conditions and on difficult terrain. The work environment is characterized by physically demanding tasks, high safety standards, and significant variation depending on the season and type of forest. Awareness of risks and good physical condition are essential for performing the tasks safely.

Wage development over time

The profession of forest worker has shown steady wage growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 29,600 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 31 800 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 33 600 SEK, representing a total increase of over 7.4% over three years. Factors driving this development include increased demand for labor and difficulties in recruiting experienced forest workers, while many are leaving the profession. Employers have also had to raise wages to retain skilled staff and attract new employees, especially in regions with high competition for labor. The trend suggests that stable demand and labor shortages will continue to positively influence salary levels.

Forest worker salary – comprehensive overview

  • Average salary: 33 600 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary (men/women): 31,500 SEK / 32,400 SEK
  • Highest salary (men/women): 38,100 SEK / 34,900 SEK
  • Hourly wage (average): 191 SEK
  • Gender differences: Women earn 99% of what men do (men: 33 700 SEK, women: 33 400 SEK)
  • Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on the labor market and demand in different parts of the country

Education and qualifications

To work as a forest worker, a high school education in natural resources, with a focus on forestry, or equivalent experience is generally required. Many employers also require certification for chainsaw and brush saw, as well as some practical field experience. Success in the profession depends on good physical fitness, safety awareness, and the ability to work independently and in teams.

  • High school education: Natural Resources Program, forestry focus (3 years)
  • Certifications: Chainsaw license (A, B, or higher), brush saw certification
  • Practical training: On-the-job learning during education is recommended
  • Prerequisites: Good physical condition and interest in outdoor work
  • Career entry: Possible via trainee programs or as an apprentice

Many forest workers develop deep knowledge of ecosystems and forest management, making them valuable advisors for landowners and forestry companies. Practical field experience can also provide unique insights into sustainable forestry and biodiversity.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Forest workers often have access to wellness allowances, work clothing, and protective equipment as part of their employment conditions. Some employers also offer per diems for work away from home, as well as extra compensation for unsociable hours or particularly risky tasks. Insurance and pension contributions are usually included according to collective agreements.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for forest workers is characterized by high demand, especially in areas with extensive forestry. At the same time, there are reports of difficulties in recruiting new employees, which may be due to the physically demanding nature of the job and working under sometimes harsh conditions. Many leave the profession after a few years, contributing to high turnover. Competition for jobs is therefore relatively low, but employers set high requirements for safety, experience, and training. Technological developments, with more machinery, are also changing work tasks and may influence future skill needs.

Tips for those who want to become a forest worker

To succeed as a forest worker, endurance and good physical condition are important, as the work is often heavy and outdoors in varying weather. Precision is a key trait, especially regarding safety and handling machinery and tools. Showing responsibility and the ability to work independently offers good opportunities for development, while teamwork skills facilitate work in groups. A genuine interest in nature and the environment provides extra motivation, and a willingness to continually update skills in new techniques and safety routines is advantageous. Flexibility and the ability to quickly adapt to different tasks and terrains are also valuable in the profession.

Key facts about Forest Workers

  • Average salary: 33 600 SEK/month
  • Salary range: 31,500–38,100 SEK/month
  • Education level: High school education with certification
  • Work environment: Physically demanding outdoor work
  • Demand: Great opportunities for nationwide employment

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, there are opportunities to advance to team leader, instructor, or machine operator within forestry. Some choose to further their education in forest management, planning, or environmental work. Projections from the Employment Service show that job opportunities are plentiful and expected to remain stable over the next five years. Despite high turnover among forestry workers, there is a steady demand for new forest workers, especially in regions with extensive forestry. The development of new machinery and sustainable forestry practices can create new roles for those who want to specialize.

Frequently asked questions about Forest Workers

  • What is the average salary of a Forest Worker?
    - The average salary for a forest worker is 33 600 SEK per month.
  • What does the salary difference between men and women look like?
    - Women have an average salary of 33 400 SEK, which corresponds to 99% of men's salaries.
  • What education is required to become a forest worker?
    - The Natural Resources Program with a focus on forestry and certification for chainsaw and brush saw are recommended.
  • How is the job market for forest workers?
    - Opportunities for employment are plentiful and demand is expected to remain unchanged in the coming years.
  • Are there regional differences in salaries?
    - Yes, salaries can vary depending on the labor market and demand in different parts of the country.
  • What is the highest reported salary?
    - The highest salary for a forest worker is 38,100 SEK per month.
  • What benefits are common?
    - Wellness contributions, protective equipment, work clothing, and sometimes per diems or overtime pay are common.

Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Lumberjack is 38900 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Privately employed workers with a post-secondary education, less than 3 years. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 33600 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Lumberjack is 32300 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Privately employed officials. The lowest salary for a woman in this profession is 33200 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
18-24 32300 kr 32500 kr
25-34 33700 kr 34700 kr
35-44 33200 kr 33700 kr
45-54 32400 kr 33100 kr
55-64 33600 kr 34800 kr
Snitt 99% 33000 kr 33600 kr
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 Lumberjack has the SSYK code 6210, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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