Caretaker, horse

What does a horse caretaker do? – Tasks and work environment

A horse caretaker in the equine industry is responsible for daily care of horses at, for example, riding schools, harness racing stables, galloping stables, or breeding facilities. Tasks include feeding, mucking out, leading horses in and out, brushing, saddling, and maintaining equipment. Often, basic medical care, shoeing, and health monitoring are also included. The work is physically demanding, often outdoors, and involves irregular hours, including weekends and early mornings. The work environment is characterized by close contact with animals, high responsibility, and collaboration with colleagues, trainers, and sometimes horse owners.

Salary development over time

The salary for horse caretakers has shown steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 27,200 SEK per month. In 2023, the salary increased to 28 400 SEK, representing an increase of about 4.4%. This level has remained unchanged in 2024, with the average salary still at 28 400 SEK. The clear rise between 2022 and 2023 can partly be explained by general wage adjustments within the agricultural sector and increased focus on working conditions in animal-related professions. The demand for competent horse caretakers has remained stable, contributing to maintaining the salary at this level, despite no further increases noted in the past year.

Horse caretaker salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 28 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,000 SEK/month (female, private sector, three-year upper secondary education)
• Highest salary: 32,500 SEK/month (female, public sector, upper secondary education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage: 171 SEK/hour (based on 166 working hours/month)
• Women's average salary: 27 800 SEK/month (94% of men's salary)
• Men's average salary: 29,700 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data on regional salary differences is unavailable

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a horse caretaker usually involves the natural resources program at upper secondary school, specializing in animals or horse management. Practical experience is highly valued, and many employers place great importance on previous stable experience. Further training, certifications, and specialized courses can enhance employability and opportunities for higher wages or more qualified tasks.

• Upper secondary education: Natural resources program, horse management specialization (3 years)
• Certifications: Horse caretaker diploma, Safe horse handling
• Practical training: Work-based learning (APL) during upper secondary school
• Prerequisites: Stable experience and interest in animals
• Courses and further training: Continuing education in horse healthcare, feeding science, and riding

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to the base salary, benefits such as work clothing, wellness allowances, subsidized meals, and sometimes accommodation near the workplace are often offered. Compensation for unsociable hours, skill development, and participation in competitions without salary deductions are also common.

Challenges and competition

The job market for horse caretakers is characterized by high demand but also a paradoxical recruitment situation, where many work part-time and some employers struggle to find the right competence. The work can be physically exhausting and often involves irregular hours. Competition for the most attractive positions, especially in competition stables, is fierce and requires experience and proven skills. Combining a passion for animals with endurance and precision is crucial for long-term success in the profession.

Tips for aspiring horse caretakers

To succeed as a horse caretaker, it is beneficial to gain practical experience early through summer jobs or internships in stable environments, which develop responsibility and patience. Engagement and a genuine interest in horse welfare are essential, especially since workdays are often long and physically demanding. Good teamwork skills facilitate smooth collaboration, while meticulousness ensures daily routines are followed and animal health is prioritized. Flexibility is a valuable asset, as tasks and schedules may vary seasonally and depending on the operation. Continuing education, such as in horse healthcare or feeding science, increases opportunities for development and responsibility. Finally, the ability to take initiative is valuable, as tasks often require independence and problem-solving.

Key facts about horse caretakers

• Average salary: 28 400 SEK/month
• Education level: Upper secondary education, natural resources program (3 years)
• Work environment: Physically demanding, often outdoors, irregular hours
• Demand: Great job opportunities, 360 available positions nationwide
• Gender salary gap: Women earn 94% of what men do

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a horse caretaker, there are opportunities to advance to more specialized roles, such as stable manager, foreman, or young horse trainer. Some choose further education to become riding instructors or trainers, while others focus on competition work, traveling with horses and trainers to national and international events. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the prospects for employment in the profession are excellent, with demand remaining steady over the next five years. However, a challenge remains that many work part-time, which can impact long-term career development. The industry’s development is largely driven by interest in equestrian sports and the demand for qualified personnel in animal care.

Frequently asked questions about horse caretakers

• What is the average salary of a horse caretaker?
  - The average salary is 28 400 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a horse caretaker?
  - The most common pathway is the natural resources program at upper secondary school, specializing in horses, supplemented with practical training and certifications.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 94% of what men do in the profession.
• What is the job market like for horse caretakers?
  - Job opportunities are plentiful, with approximately 360 available positions nationwide.
• What are the most common tasks?
  - Feeding, mucking out, horse care, basic medical treatment, and equipment maintenance form the core of the work.
• What is the highest salary for a horse caretaker?
  - The highest salary is 32,500 SEK per month, belonging to a woman in the public sector.
• What benefits are common in the profession?
  - Common benefits include work clothing, wellness allowances, subsidized meals, and sometimes accommodation.