Gardener, plant

What does a gardener in construction do? – Tasks and work environment

A gardener in construction works with planning, creating, and maintaining outdoor environments such as parks, gardens, courtyards, and public green spaces. Typical tasks include ground preparation, planting trees and shrubs, paving, lawn laying, and maintenance of vegetation and irrigation systems. The work is often outdoors and can be physically demanding, especially during spring and summer when the peak season occurs. The profession involves close collaboration with colleagues in construction, contractors, and sometimes landscape architects or clients on larger projects.

Salary development over time

The salary for a gardener in construction has seen steady increases in recent years. In 2022, the average was 29,100 SEK per month, rising to 30 500 SEK in 2023, and further to 30 800 SEK in 2024. This represents an increase of approximately 6% over three years, slightly above the general wage growth for similar green sector professions. The wage increase can partly be explained by increased demand for sustainable outdoor environments and greater focus on climate adaptation in urban planning, although the market at the national level is characterized by a certain surplus of trained personnel. Regional and employer differences exist, with larger cities and the public sector often offering somewhat higher wages.

Gardener in construction salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 30 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 26,700 SEK/month (female, private sector worker)
• Highest salary: 34,600 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage: 185 SEK/hour (average, based on 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Men earn 31 200 SEK, women earn 29 900 SEK (women earn 96% of men's wages)
• Regional differences: Small variations, with slightly higher wages in larger cities and the public sector

Education and qualifications

To work as a gardener in construction, a high school education in gardening or equivalent adult education is usually required. Many employers demand practical experience, and it is common to combine formal education with internships or apprenticeship periods. Specialized courses in plant knowledge, machinery operation, and environmental technology can be advantageous and provide a competitive edge.

• High school education: Nature conservation program, gardening specialization (3 years)
• Adult education/Vocational college: Garden construction (1–2 years)
• Internship: Typically 6–12 months during education
• Certifications: Machinery operator license, plant protection training
• Prerequisites: Basic high school eligibility

Common benefits and compensation

Benefits for gardeners in construction often include wellness contributions, work clothing, opportunities for skill development, as well as insurance and pension schemes according to collective agreements. In the public sector, additional vacation days and access to employee support are also common. Shift work and seasonal variations can influence compensation levels, especially during the peak season.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for gardeners in construction is characterized by a surplus of labor, meaning competition for permanent positions can be high. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, job opportunities are expected to be limited, with demand remaining unchanged over the next five years. Seasonal variations and weather-dependent projects can create uncertainty regarding employment types and workload. To stand out, specialized skills, machinery experience, or experience with large-scale projects are often necessary. At the same time, there is a constant need for skilled professionals as communities grow and the demand for sustainable outdoor environments increases.

Tips for those wanting to become a gardener in construction

To succeed as a gardener in construction, it is good to be both meticulous and creative, as the work requires precision in everything from planting to paving. Endurance and good physical condition are important, especially during intensive periods with heavy lifting and long outdoor days. An interest in plants and the environment helps you stay updated on new trends and sustainable solutions, which can give you an advantage in the job market. Collaborating and communicating clearly with colleagues and clients is crucial for efficient project execution and meeting customer expectations. Flexibility is a strength, as tasks and workplaces can vary daily. Finally, investing in continuous skill development, such as obtaining machine certifications or taking courses in plant protection, can increase your employability and broaden your role within the industry.

Key facts about gardeners in construction

• Education level: High school or vocational college, often with practical training
• Work environment: Outdoors, physically demanding, seasonal
• Demand: Limited opportunities nationwide, according to the Swedish Public Employment Service
• Typical employment: Full-time or seasonal, often covered by collective agreements
• Special skills: Machinery license, plant knowledge, construction techniques

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a gardener in construction can advance to supervisor, project manager, or specialize in areas such as environmental technology, plant planning, or large-scale contracting. Some choose to start their own gardening business or move into roles like site manager or consultant in green spaces. The Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast indicates that the national job market offers limited opportunities and a surplus of educated workers, with demand expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Despite this, regional differences and growth in specialized niches or growth areas provide opportunities. As of May 2024, there were 360 job openings in the gardening and landscaping sector, indicating that opportunities still exist for those with the right skills and flexibility.

Frequently asked questions about gardeners in construction

• What does a gardener in construction earn?
  - The average salary is 30 800 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, sector, and region.
• How do gender differences appear in wages?
  - Men earn an average of 31 200 SEK and women 29 900 SEK, meaning women earn 96% of men's wages.
• What education is required to become a gardener in construction?
  - High school education in gardening or equivalent adult education is most common, often supplemented with practical training.
• What career paths are available within the profession?
  - Common development opportunities include supervisor, project manager, or self-employment within construction.
• What is the job market like for gardeners in construction?
  - The job market is characterized by limited opportunities nationwide and a surplus of labor, but regional differences exist.
• What is the hourly wage for a gardener in construction?
  - The average hourly wage is 185 SEK, based on 166 hours of work per month.
• What are the highest and lowest wages in the profession?
  - The highest wage is 34,600 SEK (female, municipal sector), and the lowest is 26,700 SEK (female, private sector worker).