Mushroom growers

What does a mushroom grower do? – Tasks and work environment

A mushroom grower primarily works with cultivating, harvesting, and processing various types of edible mushrooms, such as button mushrooms, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms. The tasks cover the entire production chain – from preparing cultivation substrates and monitoring climate conditions to managing watering, pest control, and quality assurance of the finished mushrooms. The work often takes place in greenhouses, climate-controlled halls, or underground spaces where temperature and humidity can be carefully regulated. Physical effort is involved, and the work environment requires both precision and patience to ensure a consistent and high-quality harvest.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salary development for mushroom growers has shown a steady increase. In 2022, the average salary was 26,500 SEK per month, rising to 27 600 in 2023. The latest data for 2024 shows a further increase to 29 300, representing a total growth of approximately 10.6% over the period. Factors driving this salary growth are believed to include increased demand for locally produced and organic mushrooms, as well as a greater focus on sustainability within the food sector. At the same time, employers have needed to compete for labor in horticulture, which may have contributed to rising wages.

Mushroom grower salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 29 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 28,000 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 30,300 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 176 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 30,300 SEK, women 28,000 SEK (women earn 92% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: No specific data available

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a mushroom grower is often practical and can vary depending on the employer and production focus. Many mushroom growers have a background in horticulture or nature management, but it is also common to learn the profession through internships or directly on the workplace. Some specialized knowledge about mushroom biology and cultivation methods is an advantage, especially for those wishing to work independently or start their own business.

• Vocational training in horticulture/nature management: 1–3 years (high school or adult education)
• Specialized courses in mushroom cultivation: Short courses or online training
• Internship/trainee: Common as an introduction
• Prerequisites: Interest in cultivation and food, some technical understanding
• Self-study and experience exchange: Important for development and innovation

Common benefits and compensations

Mushroom growers are usually covered by basic employment benefits such as holiday pay, sick pay, and sometimes wellness allowances. In some cases, work clothes, employee discounts on the company's products, or opportunities for further training in horticulture are offered. Compensation levels can vary between employers and depending on whether employment is seasonal or permanent.

Challenges and competition

The job market for mushroom growers is relatively narrow and affected by seasonal variations, climate factors, and competition from imported products. Technological development and automation require growers to continuously update their skills. Since the profession is often practiced in small and medium-sized companies, workload can be uneven, especially during peak season. There are also challenges related to maintaining consistent product quality and finding profitable sales channels.

Tips for aspiring mushroom growers

To succeed as a mushroom grower, it is good to have a strong sense of precision and patience, as the cultivation process requires attention to detail and regular monitoring. Being flexible and solution-oriented helps when unexpected challenges arise, such as disease outbreaks among the mushrooms or technical failures in the cultivation environment. An interest in sustainability and food is a great asset, especially if the goal is to develop new products or find niches in the market. Good teamwork skills are also important, as the work is often carried out in small teams where everyone needs to help each other. Finally, curiosity and a willingness to learn new methods are crucial for adapting to changes in the industry and taking advantage of new cultivation techniques.

Key facts about mushroom growers

• Average salary: 29 300 SEK/month
• Salary range: 28,000–30,300 SEK/month
• Education level: High school vocational training or practical experience
• Work environment: Greenhouses, climate-controlled facilities
• Job openings in the profession: 360 positions (May 2024)

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience, a mushroom grower can develop into supervisory roles within cultivation operations or take the step to start their own cultivation business. Specialization in rare mushroom varieties or organic production can open new opportunities, especially in a market where demand for sustainable and locally produced foods is increasing. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, there is currently no specific assessment for the mushroom grower profession, but within the horticultural group, 360 job openings are reported. This indicates that demand is relatively stable, although competition for permanent positions may vary between regions.

Frequently asked questions about mushroom growers

• What does a mushroom grower earn?
  - A mushroom grower has an average salary of 29 300 SEK per month, with a range between 28,000 and 30,300 SEK.
• How does one become a mushroom grower?
  - The most common route is through vocational training in horticulture or nature management, but many also learn through internships and self-study.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, men earn on average 30,300 SEK while women earn 28,000 SEK, which means women earn 92% of men's salary in the profession.
• What is the work environment like for a mushroom grower?
  - The work often takes place in greenhouses or climate-controlled cultivation halls where physical effort and precision are important.
• What career opportunities are there for mushroom growers?
  - After a few years of experience, one can become a supervisor, specialize further, or start their own cultivation.
• How many job openings are available within the profession?
  - There are 360 job openings (May 2024).
• Is formal education required to become a mushroom grower?
  - Formal education is an advantage, but it is also common to learn the profession directly on the job.