Forest management workers

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

A forest maintenance worker plays a central role in Swedish forestry, with tasks ranging from planting new trees to clearing, thinning, and site preparation. The work often involves outdoor activity in varying weather conditions and on different types of terrain. Machinery is frequently used, but much work is still manual, especially during planting and clearing. A forest maintenance worker contributes to ensuring the long-term health and growth of forests, making the profession crucial for both the environment and the Swedish forestry industry.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for forest maintenance workers has shown steady growth. In 2022, the average salary was 29,600 SEK per month, increasing to 30 200 SEK in 2023 and further to 31 800 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 7.4% over the period. The increase can mainly be explained by increased demand in the forestry sector, where retirements and expanding forest areas have played a role. Additionally, annual adjustments in collective agreements have contributed to this salary development. The trend indicates that the profession follows the general salary development within the natural resources sector, without significant deviations.

Forest maintenance worker salary – comprehensive 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
• Gender differences: Women earn 33 400 SEK, men 31 700 SEK – women 105% of men's salary
• Regional differences: Slight differences, but higher wages in northern Sweden where demand is greater

Education and qualifications

To work as a forest maintenance worker, a high school education in natural resources with a focus on forestry is generally required, but there are multiple pathways into the profession. Practical experience is highly valued, and many employers offer internal training or internships to ensure the right skills. Additional courses, such as chainsaw licenses and machine operation certificates, can also be advantageous.

• High school education: Natural Resources Program, forestry specialization (3 years)
• Certifications: Chainsaw license, clearing saw license, machine operator certificate
• Internships: Often part of the education or offered by employers
• Prerequisites: Physical ability and interest in nature and the environment
• Tips: Additional training in machinery handling or work environment can increase employability

Common benefits and compensation

Forest maintenance workers often benefit from collective agreements, including occupational pensions, wellness grants, and work clothing. Many employers also offer travel allowances and opportunities for training and professional development within the company. Irregular working hours may sometimes be compensated with overtime pay.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a forest maintenance worker is currently relatively low nationwide, partly because many leave the profession and there is a large need for new workers. At the same time, the work environment can be challenging, with heavy lifting, changing weather, and sometimes monotonous tasks. Physical endurance and good health are essential for long-term success. Technological developments in forestry are also changing the work tasks, requiring adaptability and willingness to learn new skills. Despite some challenges, the future outlook remains bright, with many job openings and steady demand.

Tips for those interested in becoming a forest maintenance worker

To succeed as a forest maintenance worker, it is beneficial to have a genuine interest in nature and outdoor work, as workdays are often spent in forests and on land. Good physical condition makes a significant difference, as tasks can be heavy and repetitive. Attention to safety is crucial when handling machinery and tools. Teamwork skills are also important, as much of the work is done in teams requiring good communication and responsibility. Flexibility and adaptability are valuable, especially when weather and tasks change rapidly. An open mind for further education and new methods increases chances of employment and career development. Finally, being solution-oriented is a great advantage, as unforeseen problems frequently arise in the field.

Key facts about forest maintenance workers

• Salary range: 31,500–38,100 SEK/month
• Education level: High school education in natural resources, certificates may be required
• Work environment: Outdoors, often physically demanding and weather-dependent
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment, 360 job openings nationwide
• Gender difference: Women earn on average more than men in the profession

Career paths and future outlook

After 3–5 years as a forest maintenance worker, there are opportunities for further education and specialization, such as machine operator, supervisor, or instructor in forestry. Some choose to further qualify as a forest master or forest technician. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, job opportunities are expected to remain high nationwide, with demand remaining steady over the next five years. Paradoxically, many leave the profession, creating a continuous need for new forest maintenance workers. Technological development in forestry may change the nature of work in the long term, but fundamental knowledge in forest management will continue to be valuable.

Frequently asked questions about forest maintenance workers

• What does a forest maintenance worker earn?
  - A forest maintenance worker has an average salary of 31 800 SEK per month, with a range from 31,500 SEK to 38,100 SEK.
• What are the gender differences within the profession?
  - Women earn on average 33 400 SEK, which is 105% of men's salary, which is 31 700 SEK.
• What education is required to become a forest maintenance worker?
  - Usually, a high school education in natural resources with certification in machinery and chainsaws is required.
• Are there many job openings for forest maintenance workers?
  - Yes, currently 360 job openings nationwide within the profession.
• What is the work environment like for forest maintenance workers?
  - The work is almost entirely outdoors and involves physical effort, often in varying and sometimes demanding weather conditions.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - It is common to move into roles such as machinery operator, supervisor, or further education as a forest technician.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The forecast indicates that demand for forest maintenance workers will remain unchanged, and job opportunities are plentiful.