City gardener

What does a city park gardener do? – Tasks and work environment

A city park gardener is responsible for planning, developing, and managing the city's green environments. Tasks include designing parks, squares, avenues, as well as maintaining public gardens and green areas. The role often involves coordinating projects, procuring contractors, and working closely with landscape architects, gardeners, and technical staff. The work environment is diverse and can include outdoor fieldwork as well as administrative tasks in an office. The focus is on creating sustainable, aesthetically pleasing, and functional outdoor environments for city residents.

Salary development over time

The salary for a city park gardener has shown steady positive growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 54,500 kr per month, increasing to 55 000 in 2023. In 2024, the average salary continued upward and reached 56 100, which is approximately a 2.9 percent increase over three years. This growth is linked to increased demand for expertise in climate adaptation, biodiversity, and urban development, as well as higher educational and specialization requirements. The trend indicates that the profession's status and responsibilities have strengthened, positively influencing salary levels.

City park gardener salary – a complete overview

• Average salary: 56 100 kr/month
• Lowest salary: 43,100 kr/month (female, public sector, secondary education)
• Highest salary: 64,000 kr/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 337 kr
• Gender differences: Men 55 500 kr/month, women 53,000 kr/month (highest recorded salary)
• Regional differences: Specific figures are missing, but variations may occur depending on city size and budget

Education and qualifications

To work as a city park gardener, a post-secondary education in garden engineering, landscape architecture, or related fields is usually required. Many employers also value work experience in project management or public administration. Specialized courses in plant knowledge, sustainable urban development, and environmental certification are advantageous and can improve employment prospects.

• Formal education: University or college degree (3–5 years) in landscape architecture, garden engineering, or equivalent
• Certifications: Courses in plant protection, environmental management, and project management are often meritorious
• Practical experience: Work experience in garden management or municipal planning during studies is recommended
• Prerequisites: High school education with focus on natural sciences, environment, or technology can be a good foundation
• Tips for choosing: Engagement in relevant networks and industry organizations can increase job opportunities

Common benefits and compensations

For city park gardeners, collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowances, and extra vacation days are common. Some employers also offer further training, subsidized meals, and flexible working hours. Other benefits may include work clothing, mobile phones, and sometimes company cars, especially when working for larger municipalities or private contractors.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a city park gardener is moderate, but demand varies depending on region and municipality size. There are high demands on both technical knowledge and collaboration skills, as work often occurs in project teams with many stakeholders. Challenges include budget constraints, political decisions affecting long-term projects, and the need to stay updated on new environmental requirements and sustainability goals. Climate change and increased demands for ecosystem services add complexity and responsibility to the role.

Tips for aspiring city park gardeners

To succeed as a city park gardener, it is beneficial to be both analytical and creative, as the profession requires solutions that combine functionality and aesthetics. A strong interest in environmental issues and sustainability is important, as well as the ability to collaborate with different professional groups and stakeholders. Building a broad network within the gardening and construction sectors can open doors to new opportunities and projects. Communication skills are crucial, as the role often involves dialogue with citizens, politicians, and contractors. A careful and structured working style helps keep projects within budget and deadlines, while flexibility facilitates adaptation to changing conditions. Continuing education in new trends and techniques in the industry is highly recommended.

Key facts about city park gardeners

• Education level: University/college (3–5 years)
• Work environment: Combination of office work and outdoor activities
• Typical employment: Permanent employment within municipality or private sector
• Demand: 175 job openings within the profession (May 2024)
• Special skills: Project management, plant knowledge, sustainable urban development

Career paths and future prospects

After gaining some years of experience, opportunities open for more qualified roles such as project managers for larger urban development projects, heads of park and nature departments, or advisors in green urban planning. There is also the possibility to specialize in areas such as climate adaptation, biodiversity, or environmental certification of outdoor environments. Forecasts from the Employment Service show continued high demand for the profession, especially as cities invest in sustainable and healthy living environments. With increasing urbanization and climate challenges, the role is expected to become even more central in the future.

Frequently asked questions about city park gardeners

• What does a city park gardener earn?
  - The average salary is 56 100 kr per month, but it varies depending on experience, sector, and education level.
• What education is required to become a city park gardener?
  - A university or college degree in landscape architecture, garden engineering, or similar is usually required.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries in the profession?
  - Yes, men have an average salary of 55 500 kr, while the highest recorded salary for women is 53,000 kr.
• What is the job market like for city park gardeners?
  - There is strong demand with 175 job openings in spring 2024.
• What are the tasks of a city park gardener?
  - Planning, development, and management of city green spaces, project management, and coordination.
• What benefits are common in the profession?
  - Pension schemes, wellness allowances, extra vacation days, and opportunities for further education are common.
• What are the career paths?
  - Opportunities include roles as project managers, heads of park and nature departments, or specialists in sustainable urban development.