Garden engineer

What does a garden engineer do? – Tasks and work environment

A garden engineer works with planning, developing, and managing green environments, ranging from parks to residential areas, public spaces, and private gardens. The role often involves analyzing soil conditions, selecting plant materials, creating planting plans, and advising on maintenance and care of outdoor environments. The work environment varies between office work, field studies, and practical outdoor work, depending on the project and employer. Collaborations often involve landscape architects, contractors, and municipal officials, where both technical knowledge and understanding of ecological relationships are central.

Salary development over time

The salary for garden engineers has increased steadily in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 40,300 SEK per month, which increased to 45 200 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has continued to rise to 45 700 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 13 % over three years. This positive trend can be explained by increased demand for sustainable outdoor environments, greater focus on climate adaptation in urban planning, and a growing need for specialized skills within green infrastructure. Although the job market is relatively small, technological developments and new environmental requirements have contributed to raising the profession's status and salary levels.

Garden engineer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 45 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,400 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 49,300 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 275 SEK/hour
• Women: 41 300 SEK/month (85 % of men's salary)
• Men: 48 700 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Varying, but generally higher salaries in larger cities and regions with high demand for green expertise.

Education and qualifications

To work as a garden engineer, a university degree in garden engineering is usually required, often with specialization in design or cultivation. The education combines theoretical subjects in plant science, soil science, and ecology with practical training and project work. Practical experience from the industry and additional courses in project management or environmental technology can be advantageous. Some employers also require certifications or specialized skills, for example in plant protection or sustainable urban development.

• Formal degree: Garden engineering degree (3 years, university level)
• Internship: Mandatory internships or work-based learning are often included
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies
• Certifications: Opportunities for further specialization in plant protection, project management, or environmental technology
• Tips for choosing: Select specialization (design/cultivation) based on interest and future job market

Common benefits and compensations

The most common benefits for garden engineers include wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and opportunities for further education within sustainability and plant science. Other benefits may include occupational pension, extra vacation days, and work clothing for outdoor work. Some employers also offer remote work options and professional development through industry meetings or study trips.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as a garden engineer varies depending on the region and specialization. In larger urban areas, demand is often high due to extensive urban development projects and environmental initiatives, while competition may be greater in smaller towns with fewer employers. Challenges in the profession include staying updated on new environmental regulations, digital tools, and changing sustainability requirements. It can also require working under time pressure, especially before seasonal start-ups or major project deliveries. The ability to combine technical skills with creative problem-solving is a clear success factor.

Tips for those who want to become a garden engineer

To succeed as a garden engineer, it is good to be both meticulous and curious, as the profession requires continuous updating in plant science and environmental technology. A strong interest in nature and design facilitates creating attractive and functional outdoor environments. Being communicative is a big advantage, as much of the work involves collaboration and advising clients and colleagues. Practical experience, such as summer jobs or internships, provides valuable insights into industry requirements and opportunities. Flexibility and the ability to handle changing work environments are also important, as well as having a structured approach to drive projects from idea to finished result. Finally, a willingness to learn new things and develop in sustainability and digitalization offers good career prospects in the long term.

Key facts about a garden engineer

• Education level: University degree (3 years)
• Work environment: Combination of office work and practical fieldwork
• Typical employment: Permanent employment, often in the public sector or consulting firms
• Demand: 360 available jobs within the profession (May 2024)
• Gender distribution: Women earn on average 85 % of men's salary

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a garden engineer can advance to roles such as project manager for larger outdoor projects, advisor within municipal administration, or specialist in plant selection and ecological planning. Other career options include becoming a consultant, starting your own business, or working in education and research within the green space sector. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, no specific assessment is made for the profession due to limited data, but there are 360 available jobs within the profession. The trend indicates that skills in sustainability, digital tools, and climate adaptation will become increasingly important in the future.

Frequently asked questions about garden engineers

• What is the average salary of a garden engineer?
  - The average salary for a garden engineer is 45 700 SEK per month.
• How large is the salary difference between men and women?
  - Women earn on average 41 300 SEK, which corresponds to 85 % of men's salary at 48 700 SEK.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries?
  - The highest salary is 49,300 SEK and the lowest is 34,400 SEK per month.
• How do you become a garden engineer?
  - It requires a three-year university degree in garden engineering, often with practical training and specialization in design or cultivation.
• Are there many jobs for garden engineers?
  - Yes, the profession reports 360 available jobs (May 2024).
• What are the most common work environments?
  - The work environment is often a combination of office work and outdoor activities at various project sites.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Attention to detail, creativity, communication skills, and interest in nature and sustainability are central qualities.