Harvest workers salary

Salary and Working Conditions for Harvest Workers

Working as a harvest worker involves performing physically demanding tasks that are often seasonal. This profession includes berry pickers and planters, whose main task is to harvest and plant crops. It requires endurance and good physical condition.

What does a Harvest Worker earn?

The salary for harvest workers has increased in recent years and now stands at an average monthly salary of 26 400 SEK. However, there is a gender pay gap; men earn an average of 26 700 SEK while women earn 26 100 SEK, meaning that women's wages constitute 98% of men's. For those on hourly wages, the average is 159 SEK per hour, based on 166 worked hours per month.

Salary Range in the Profession

There are variations in salaries depending on the sector and educational level. The highest recorded salary for a male harvest worker is 26800 SEK, belonging to a person working in the regional sector with a three-year high school education. For women, the highest salary is 26 100 SEK. On the opposite end of the scale are the lowest wages, where a woman in the public sector with unspecified education earns 24500 SEK, and a man in the same profession earns 24600 SEK.

Working Conditions and Job Duties

Working as a harvest worker can be both physically demanding and monotonous. The work is often done outdoors in various weather conditions, requiring adaptability and resilience to both heat and cold. Typical tasks include picking fruits and berries, planting, and sometimes sorting and packing the products.

Education and Qualifications

Formal education is usually not a requirement to work as a harvest worker, but some employers may prefer applicants with a basic understanding of agriculture and cultivation. Experience in similar jobs can also be an advantage. Some employers may offer short training programs or introductory courses to improve employees' efficiency and knowledge.

Future Prospects and Job Market

The Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts indicate that the opportunities for work as berry pickers and planters are considered medium. Over a five-year period, demand is expected to remain unchanged, providing stability for those interested in working in this field. The recruitment situation is deemed balanced, meaning there is a match between job availability and the number of applicants.

Challenges and Competition

One of the biggest challenges of being a harvest worker is the seasonal nature of the job, which can lead to periods of unemployment between seasons. Competition can also be tough during the most active periods when many individuals seek these jobs for short-term employment.

Benefits and Working Conditions

Benefits for harvest workers can vary depending on the employer and sector. In some cases, benefits such as subsidized meals or transportation to the workplace may be offered, but more traditional benefits like paid training or the opportunity to work from home are not as common.

Considerations for Becoming a Harvest Worker

If you are considering a career as a harvest worker, it is important to be aware of the physical demands and seasonal nature of the work. It is also advisable to research the conditions and benefits offered by different employers to find what best suits your needs. For those who enjoy outdoor work and physical activities, this profession can provide a rewarding work experience.