Stallman

What does an equine caretaker do? – Tasks and work environment

An equine caretaker primarily works with maintaining and caring for stable environments, including daily supervision of animals, feeding, mucking out, cleaning stalls and spaces, and some equipment repairs. The profession often involves close contact with horses or other stable-bound animals and requires good physical fitness, as the work is physically demanding and performed both indoors and outdoors under varying weather conditions. The work environment is characterized by early mornings, weekend work, and sometimes long shifts, focusing on animal welfare and stable functionality. Collaboration with colleagues and communication with animal owners or visitors are common parts of the workday.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for an equine caretaker has increased from 23,500 SEK per month in 2022 to 26 400 SEK in 2023 and further to 27 500 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to a total increase of just over 17% during the period, indicating steady demand for the profession and employers’ efforts to offer competitive wages. The salary increases can partly be explained by increased awareness of work environment, a greater focus on animal welfare, and generally higher salary levels within the natural resource sector. Despite this, the salary levels remain relatively low compared to other professions in similar sectors. It is also worth noting that the gender pay gap persists, albeit small.

Equine caretaker salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 27 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 24,900 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 28,500 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 165 SEK
• Women earn: 26,800 SEK/month (96% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 27 900 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Highest salaries are found in the regional sector, lowest in the public sector

Education and qualifications

To work as an equine caretaker, a high school diploma in natural resources, agriculture, or animal care is generally required. Practical experience with animal husbandry and stable work is highly meritorious, and employers may sometimes require specific certifications in horse or animal care. For those wishing to develop within the profession, courses in work environment, safety, and animal protection are also advantageous, along with demonstrating responsibility and independence in work tasks.

• High school diploma: Natural resources, 3 years
• Certifications: Animal care, horse caretaker, or equivalent
• Internship: Workplace-based learning during education
• Pre-knowledge: Experience in animal husbandry and stable environment
• Courses: Work environment, safety, animal protection

Common benefits and compensations

Equine caretakers are often offered benefits such as work clothing, wellness allowances, and sometimes subsidized lunch or accommodation during seasonal employment. Several employers may also provide insurance and opportunities for further training within the profession. Working hours can be flexible, but there are also irregular hours, which are sometimes compensated with additional pay or extra time off.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an equine caretaker is moderate, and the profession is characterized by a balance between supply and demand for labor. One of the main challenges is the physically demanding work and often irregular hours, which can impact both work environment and private life. Salary levels are relatively low compared to other professions within the natural resource sector, making it difficult to attract and retain staff long-term. There is also some seasonal variation in demand, especially in regions with a strong presence of horses or agriculture. The profession requires a high level of responsibility, precision, and the ability to handle unexpected situations quickly.

Tips for those who want to become an equine caretaker

To succeed as an equine caretaker, it is good to be responsible and flexible, as the workday often involves varied tasks and quick adjustments. Building good physical endurance is important, as the work environment can be both heavy and strenuous at times. An interest in animals and a desire to learn more about their needs facilitates daily work and makes the profession more rewarding. Showing initiative and being self-reliant is appreciated by employers, especially when it comes to identifying and solving practical problems independently. Social skills are an asset, as collaboration with colleagues and communication with animal owners are natural parts of the profession. Being meticulous and attentive to detail benefits both animal welfare and a safe workplace. Lastly, actively seeking internships and networking within the industry increases employment opportunities.

Key facts about the equine caretaker

• Average salary: 27 500 SEK/month
• Education level: High school diploma in natural resources
• Work environment: Physically demanding, both indoors and outdoors
• Job opportunities: 360 available jobs nationwide
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 96% of men's salary

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, an equine caretaker can advance to more responsible roles such as supervisor, stable manager, or instructor in animal care, especially after further education or specialization in areas like horse handling. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts for the job group, fruit pickers and planters, which include equine caretakers, have moderate employment opportunities, with recruitment characterized by balance. Over a five-year period, demand is expected to remain unchanged, providing a stable labor market but limited potential for salary growth beyond the overall trend. For those wishing to develop further, additional training in animal care, machinery maintenance, or leadership can open new career opportunities within the natural resource sector.

Frequently asked questions about the equine caretaker

• What does an equine caretaker earn on average?
  - An equine caretaker has an average salary of 27 500 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become an equine caretaker?
  - High school diploma in natural resources, preferably with practical training and possible certifications in animal care.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn 96% of what men do in the profession.
• What is the job market like for equine caretakers?
  - There are 360 available jobs nationwide and the job market is considered balanced.
• What are common tasks for an equine caretaker?
  - Daily animal care, cleaning stalls, feeding, and basic repairs.
• How has the salary development been?
  - The salary has increased positively in recent years, from 23,500 SEK in 2022 to 27 500 SEK in 2024.
• What career options are available for equine caretakers?
  - Opportunities to advance to supervisor, stable manager, or instructor after experience and further education.