Tree caretaker

What does a tree care specialist do? – Tasks and work environment

A tree care specialist works with planting, pruning, maintaining, and sometimes felling trees in various environments, from parks and gardens to urban areas and private properties. The job often involves working at heights, such as climbing or from cherry pickers, and requires a good understanding of tree biology and ecology. The work environment is diverse and can include solo work and teamwork, as well as varying weather conditions. Tree care specialists use specialized tools and machinery, and the work can be physically demanding with high safety and precision requirements.

Salary development over time

The salary development for tree care specialists has been relatively stable over the past three years with a slight upward trend. In 2022, the average salary was 29,100 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 30 500 SEK, which represents an increase of about 4.8%. In 2024, the average salary reached 30 800 SEK, a marginal increase of 1% compared to the previous year. This trend reflects ongoing demand for professional skills, but also the competition within the gardening and landscaping sector, where salaries are affected by seasonal variations and regional differences. The modest salary increase can partly be explained by a national surplus of labor and unchanged demand, according to the Employment Service's forecasts.

Tree care specialist salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 30 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 26,700 SEK/month (female, private sector employee)
• Highest salary: 34,600 SEK/month (female, municipal sector)
• Hourly wage: 185 SEK/hour (average for hourly workers)
• Gender differences: Women earn 29 900 SEK, men 31 200 SEK (women 96% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data on variations are lacking, but wages can be influenced by the labor market and employers

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a tree care specialist often involves high school education in horticulture or natural resource management, but adult education and specialized courses are also common. To work professionally, both theoretical knowledge of trees and practical experience in pruning, planting, and equipment handling are required. Certifications in tree climbing and chainsaw operation are often advantageous and sometimes mandatory for employers.

• High school education: Natural resource management – horticulture (3 years)
• Adult education: Gardening training with a focus on tree care (1–2 years)
• Certificates: Chainsaw license, climbing certification, and ESA trees
• Practical experience: Through internships or trainee programs
• Courses: Pruning, tree identification, work environment, and safety

Common benefits and compensations

Tree care specialists are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, work clothing, protective gear, and opportunities for further education. Many employers also provide insurance, extra vacation days, and sometimes access to company vehicles or transport allowances for work at different locations. Collective agreements are common and provide security regarding wages, overtime, and compensation for inconvenient working hours.

Competition and challenges

The competition within the profession of tree care specialists is considered high, with a national surplus of labor according to the latest forecast from the Employment Service. Despite approximately 360 job openings in the sector, job opportunities are relatively limited and expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Seasonal variations pose a challenge, with increased demand during the growing season and decreased activity in winter. The profession also demands high physical fitness, safety awareness, and the ability to work at heights, which can limit the pool of qualified personnel.

Tips for aspiring tree care specialists

To succeed as a tree care specialist, it’s good to combine an interest in nature with practical skills and good physical condition. Precision is crucial, especially when pruning and working at heights, where safety must never be compromised. Flexibility and stress resistance are helpful during busy periods or in rapidly changing weather. Social skills are an asset, as the work often involves teamwork and contact with clients or the public. Finally, a willingness to continuously develop skills is important, as new techniques and safety requirements demand updated knowledge and certifications.

Key facts about tree care specialists

• Salary range: 26,700–34,600 SEK/month
• Education pathway: High school or adult education with certifications
• Work environment: Outdoors, often at heights and with machinery
• Demand: Limited job opportunities, national surplus
• Gender differences: Women earn 96% of what men do

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, many tree care specialists have opportunities to specialize in advanced tree pruning, supervision, or consultation on tree care and urban greenery. Some start their own businesses or work as arborists with more advanced tasks. According to the Employment Service, the future outlook for the sector of gardening and landscaping professionals is unchanged, with a labor surplus and limited job opportunities nationwide. Regional differences may exist, especially in metropolitan areas where demand for tree care is higher. Developments in environmental and sustainability areas can also create new opportunities for tree care specialists wishing to broaden their expertise.

Frequently asked questions about tree care specialists

• What is the average salary of a tree care specialist?
  - A tree care specialist earns an average of 30 800 SEK per month.
• Are there significant salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn 96% of what men do, with an average salary of 29 900 SEK compared to men's 31 200 SEK.
• What are the requirements to work as a tree care specialist?
  - High school education in natural resource management or equivalent adult education, along with certifications for chainsaw operation and climbing, are common.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Job opportunities are limited nationwide and competition is high, with a surplus of labor according to the Employment Service.
• What are the occupational health and safety risks?
  - Working at heights, heavy lifting, and machinery use pose risks, requiring safety training and equipment.
• Can I further my education within the profession?
  - Yes, opportunities exist to train as an arborist, supervisor, or consultant in tree care and green infrastructure.
• What is the hourly wage for a tree care specialist?
  - The average for hourly workers is 185 SEK per hour.