Image that illustrates Snowmobile driver, forestry

Snowmobile driver, forestry

32 900 kr

Operators of agricultural and forestry machinery

30 600 - 35 400 kr / month

Women earn 92% of what men do.

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What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Snowmobile driver, forestry

Average salary 32 900 kr
Males 33 100 kr
Females 30 600 kr

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

A skotarförare in forestry is responsible for transporting felled logs from the harvesting site to the storage area where the timber is collected for further transportation. The work mainly takes place in a forest environment and involves operating heavy machinery, often under varying weather conditions and on uneven terrain. The operator handles advanced skotare, requiring technical skill and good oversight to avoid damage to both machinery and nature. Workdays can be long and physically demanding, with safety being a prioritized aspect of the daily work.

Salary development over time

The salary for a skotarförare in forestry has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,400 kronor per month, rising to 31 500 kronor in 2023 and reaching 32 900 kronor in 2024. This corresponds to an increase of about 8.2% over three years, which is slightly higher than the average for similar professions within natural resource management. The salary development is mainly driven by increased demand for experienced operators and a shortage of trained workforce, especially in regions where the forestry industry is significant. Advances in machinery technology and increased specialization have also contributed to raising the profession's status and salary levels. However, gender and regional differences persist, affecting the overall salary picture.

Skotarförare, forestry salary – complete overview

  • Average salary: 32 900 kr/month
  • Lowest salary: 30,600 kr/month
  • Highest salary: 35,400 kr/month
  • Average hourly wage: 198 kr
  • Women: 30,600 kr/month
  • Men: 33 100 kr/month
  • Women earn: 92% of what men do

Education and qualifications

To work as a skotarförare in forestry, a high school education in natural resource management with a focus on forestry is usually required, or equivalent adult education. Practical experience in machinery operation and basic knowledge of forest management are important for success in the profession. It is also advantageous to have certifications for machinery operation and good knowledge of occupational health and safety.

  • High school education: Natural resource management program, forestry specialization (3 years)
  • Vocational adult education: Forest machine operator (1–1.5 years)
  • Certifications: Machinery operator certificate, safety training
  • Practical training: Work-based learning (APL) during education
  • Prerequisites: Good physical condition and interest in technology

Operating a skotare often involves working alone in quiet forest environments, making the profession attractive for those who enjoy independent work and nature. During certain periods, such as spring and autumn, the workload can vary significantly depending on weather and ground conditions.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Skotarförare in forestry are often offered per diems for work far from home, as well as compensation for inconvenient working hours. Other common benefits include wellness contributions, work clothing, and opportunities for further training in technology and safety. In some cases, bonuses linked to production or efficiency are also provided.

Competition and challenges

The profession of skotarförare is characterized by a paradoxical labor market where demand is high but recruitment difficulties exist. Many leave the profession, leading employers to frequently seek new operators. Challenges include physically demanding work environments, seasonal variations, and sometimes long working days under difficult weather conditions. Technological development also requires operators to continuously update their skills to handle modern machinery. Despite these challenges, the profession attracts individuals who appreciate independence, nature, and technical work.

Tips for those who want to become a skotarförare in forestry

To succeed as a skotarförare in forestry, it is beneficial to be technically interested and have a good sense for machinery, as you work daily with advanced equipment. A high degree of independence facilitates the work, which often takes place without direct supervision and in remote environments. Being physically resilient is also an advantage, especially during intensive periods of harvesting and transportation. Precision and safety awareness are crucial, as both machinery and the environment require respect for risks. The ability to handle unexpected situations and quickly solve problems is valued by employers in the industry. Keeping up with new technology and participating in further training can provide a competitive edge. Finally, an interest in nature and the environment can make the workdays more meaningful and stimulating.

Key facts about Skotarförare, forestry

  • Education level: High school diploma (natural resource management, forestry)
  • Work environment: Outdoors, varying weather and terrain
  • Demand: High, with 360 available jobs nationwide
  • Gender distribution: Majority men, but women are present
  • Typical employment form: Full-time, seasonal variations occur

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, there are opportunities to advance to machine operator, supervisor, or machine instructor within larger forestry companies. Some choose to further their education as entrepreneurs and run their own forestry transport businesses. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, job opportunities as an operator of agricultural and forestry machinery remain large nationwide, with unchanged demand over five years. However, the recruitment situation is characterized by difficulties, as many leave the profession and new recruitment is necessary to meet the need. Technological development in forestry may eventually lead to new specialized roles and increased demands for digital skills.

Frequently asked questions about Skotarförare, forestry

  • What does a skotarförare, forestry earn?
    - The average salary is 32 900 kr/month, with an hourly wage of 198 kr.
  • How do gender differences in salary look?
    - Women earn on average 92% of what men do within the profession.
  • What education is required to become a skotarförare?
    - High school education in natural resource management, forestry specialization, or equivalent adult education.
  • What is the job market like for skotarförare?
    - Demand is high with 360 available jobs nationwide, and the forecast remains unchanged for the next five years.
  • What occupational health and safety risks exist in the profession?
    - Physically demanding work, risk of accidents during machine operation, and weather-related challenges.
  • Are there opportunities for further education?
    - Yes, many employers offer courses in technology, safety, and leadership.
  • What are the highest and lowest salaries for the profession?
    - The highest salary is 35,400 kr/month and the lowest 30,600 kr/month.

Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Snowmobile driver, forestry is 35400 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Privately employed officials with a upper secondary education, maximum 2 years. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 30600 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Snowmobile driver, forestry is 30600 kr. This salary belongs to a woman also working in the Multiple sectors. The lowest salary for a man in this profession is 32800 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
18-24 28700 kr 29700 kr
25-34 32900 kr 34000 kr
35-44 31900 kr 32600 kr
45-54 33900 kr 35300 kr
55-64 33600 kr 34500 kr
Snitt 92% 31900 kr 32900 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 Snowmobile driver, forestry has the SSYK code 8341, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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