Pig breeder

What does a pig breeder do? – Tasks and work environment

A pig breeder is responsible for breeding and caring for pigs within agriculture. Tasks include feeding, cleaning stalls, monitoring animal health, and documenting growth and breeding. The pig breeder often works practically in a barn environment, which involves physically demanding tasks and daily contact with the animals. Additionally, handling feed, vaccinations, and sometimes assisting with births are included. The work environment can be noisy, dusty, and involve early mornings and weekends, requiring endurance and precision in daily tasks.

Salary development over time

The salary for pig breeders has shown stable growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 27,200 SEK per month. In 2023, the salary increased to 28 400 SEK and has remained at this level through 2024. This corresponds to an increase of approximately 4.4% between 2022 and 2023, while the salary has been unchanged in the past year. The trend indicates some improvement in wage conditions, likely related to increased demand for labor in the agricultural sector and general collective bargaining. However, the profession has not experienced significant salary fluctuations recently, possibly due to market stabilization and unchanged demand according to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts.

Pig breeder salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 28 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,000 SEK/month (female, private sector, high school education 3 years)
• Highest salary: 32,500 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage (average): 171 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 94% of what men do (men: 29,700 SEK, women: 27 800 SEK)
• Regional differences: No specific statistics available

Education and qualifications

To work as a pig breeder, a high school education in natural resource use, with specialization in agriculture or animal husbandry, is usually required. Practical experience and knowledge of animal needs are crucial, and many employers seek relevant work experience. There are also opportunities to deepen skills through courses and certifications in animal health and barn management.

• High school education: Natural resource use program, specialization in agriculture (3 years)
• Certifications: Courses in animal health, animal husbandry, and hygiene
• Internships: Work-based learning often included in high school programs
• Prerequisites: Basic high school eligibility
• Tips: Practical experience and interest in animals are highly meritorious

Common benefits and compensations

The profession often includes benefits such as work clothing, wellness contributions, and opportunities for further education in animal husbandry or agricultural machinery. Some employers also offer subsidized lunches, on-farm accommodation, and flexible working hours depending on the season. Additional pay for unsociable hours may occur, especially during weekends and evenings.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a pig breeder is relatively low, as demand for labor within the profession is high nationwide. At the same time, there is a paradoxical recruitment situation where many work part-time, making it difficult for employers to find full-time employees with the right skills. The job is physically demanding and often involves working under pressure, especially on larger farms and during intensive periods such as piglet births. Hygiene requirements, disease control, and animal welfare are central challenges, along with staying updated on legislation and new work methods. Seasonal variations and market profitability can also affect working conditions.

Tips for those who want to become pig breeders

To succeed as a pig breeder, it is good to have a genuine interest in animals and to be responsible, as animal well-being is always the top priority. Physical endurance and stress tolerance are important qualities, especially during busy periods or emergencies in the barn. It is recommended to gain as much practical experience as possible during your education, preferably through summer jobs or internships on farms. Being flexible and solution-oriented makes it easier when tasks quickly shift between animal care, maintenance, and administration. Good teamwork skills are necessary, as work often takes place in small teams or family-run farms. A structured approach helps keep documentation, routines, and animal health in order. Finally, being curious about technology and machinery is a big advantage, as automation and digital tools are becoming increasingly common in the industry.

Key facts about pig breeders

• Education level: High school diploma, natural resource use program
• Work environment: Physically demanding in barns and on farms
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment (360 available jobs nationwide)
• Gender distribution: Women earn 94% of men's salaries
• Work form: Usually full-time but many part-time positions

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a pig breeder, there are opportunities to take on greater responsibility on the farm, such as barn manager, supervisor, or responsible for breeding and production. Some choose to run their own farm or specialize in areas like animal health, consulting, or agricultural technology. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, job opportunities are plentiful and demand is expected to remain stable over the next five years. However, recruitment remains paradoxical, with difficulties in finding the right skills while many work part-time. This means that those with relevant education and experience have good chances for permanent employment and career development within the profession.

Frequently asked questions about pig breeders

• What does a pig breeder earn?
  - The average salary for a pig breeder is 28 400 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a pig breeder?
  - High school education in natural resource use, often with internships in agriculture and animal husbandry, is most common.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 94% of what men do within the profession.
• What does the job market look like for pig breeders?
  - Demand is high and there are 360 available jobs nationwide within the profession.
• What are the biggest challenges in the profession?
  - Physically demanding work environment, high hygiene standards, and the need for flexible and broad skills.
• What benefits are common for pig breeders?
  - Wellness contributions, work clothing, further training, and sometimes housing and subsidized lunches.
• Can you advance within the profession?
  - Yes, it is possible to become a supervisor, barn manager, or start your own farm after a few years of experience.