Tractor driver, agriculture

What does a tractor driver in agriculture do? – Tasks and work environment

A tractor driver in agriculture is responsible for operating and managing tractors and other farming machinery during cultivation, harvest, soil preparation, and land maintenance. Tasks often include transporting crops, plowing, sowing, fertilizing, and sometimes performing basic repairs and maintenance on equipment. The role requires high precision, especially when working with advanced equipment and GPS technology. The work environment varies seasonally, with intense periods in spring and autumn, primarily outdoors in changing weather conditions. Safety awareness and good physical health are important, as the work can involve heavy lifting and long working hours.

Salary development over time

The salary for tractor drivers in agriculture has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,400 SEK per month, rising the following year to 31 500 SEK. In 2024, the average salary continued upward to 32 900 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 8.2% over the period. This positive salary trend can partly be explained by increased demand for machinery-skilled workers in agriculture, combined with a shortage of competent drivers. Improved working conditions, technological advances, and a focus on sustainable farming have also contributed to raising the profession's status and wages. Gender pay gaps still exist, with men generally earning more than women in the profession.

Tractor driver in agriculture salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 32 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,600 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 35,400 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 198 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 33 100 SEK, women 30,600 SEK (women earn 92% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Information on regional differences varies and is influenced by local labor market conditions and demand.

Education and qualifications

The path to working as a tractor driver in agriculture typically involves secondary education in natural resource use or equivalent, with a focus on agriculture and machinery technology. Practical experience is highly valued, and many employers prefer applicants who have completed internships or trainee programs. A tractor license and sometimes licenses for heavier vehicles are required. Further training and certifications in machinery safety and environmental technology can increase employability.

• High school education: Natural resource use program, specialization in agriculture (3 years)
• Certifications: Tractor license and possibly licenses for heavy vehicles
• Internships: Longer internships during education are recommended
• Further education: Courses in advanced machinery technology or environmental technology
• Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of technology and machinery maintenance

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to the base salary, tractor drivers in agriculture often receive benefits such as per diems for work away from home, overtime pay during busy seasons, and access to work clothing and protective equipment. Some employers may also offer wellness allowances, subsidized lunches, or opportunities for further training within the company.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a tractor driver in agriculture is generally low, and job opportunities are considered plentiful nationwide. However, a challenge is that many leave the profession, creating recruitment difficulties for employers. Seasonal variations affect workload, and during certain periods, work can be very intensive. Technological development in agriculture requires drivers to continually update their knowledge of new machinery and methods. The industry's dependence on weather and market prices also introduces some uncertainty regarding workload and employment types, but over five years, demand for tractor drivers is expected to remain stable.

Tips for those who want to become tractor drivers in agriculture

To succeed as a tractor driver in agriculture, it is good to be interested in technology and have strong problem-solving skills, as machinery requires maintenance and troubleshooting. Being precise and safety-conscious is crucial to avoid accidents and injuries, especially when working with large and heavy vehicles. Flexibility and stress resistance help during busy seasons when working hours can be long and pace high. Practical experience from internships or summer jobs on farms increases chances of employment, and good teamwork skills facilitate collaboration with other machine operators. Finally, an interest in agricultural technology developments is an advantage, as the profession is rapidly changing with new digital tools and machinery.

Key facts about Tractor Drivers in Agriculture

• Education level: High school in natural resource use (3 years)
• Work environment: Outdoors, changing weather and seasonal variation
• Typical work form: Seasonal work with potential for year-round employment
• Demand: Great opportunities for work and low competition
• Special skills: Machinery technology and GPS control

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a tractor driver in agriculture, opportunities open to advance to supervisory roles, such as machine supervisor responsible for larger machine fleets or farm operations managers. Some choose to specialize in areas like precision farming or machinery service, which can lead to higher salaries and greater responsibility. The Employment Service's forecast shows that job opportunities within the profession are large and expected to remain stable over five years. Recruitment challenges exist in finding qualified personnel, while many leave the profession, prompting employers to invest in further training of existing staff. Continued technological shifts and increased digitalization in agriculture can also create new career paths for those wishing to develop within the profession.

Frequently asked questions about Tractor Drivers in Agriculture

• What does a Tractor Driver in agriculture earn?
  - The average monthly salary is 32 900.
• What is the hourly wage?
  - The hourly wage for tractor drivers in agriculture is 198 SEK.
• Are there significant salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 92% of men's salaries in the profession.
• What education is required to become a tractor driver in agriculture?
  - High school education in natural resource use, preferably with machinery specialization, is recommended.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The Employment Service assesses that job opportunities are plentiful and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What career opportunities are available?
  - After a few years, one can progress to supervisory roles or specialize in machinery technology and precision farming.
• How many job openings are there in the profession?
  - There are 360 job openings for operators of agricultural and forestry machinery.