Tractor repairman

What does a tractor repairer do? – Tasks and work environment

A tractor repairer works with servicing, troubleshooting, and repairing tractors and sometimes other agricultural and construction machinery. Tasks include identifying technical problems, replacing worn or broken parts, and performing preventive maintenance to ensure machine reliability. Repairs can range from engines and gearboxes to hydraulics and electronics. The work environment is often workshop-based but can also involve field work, especially during busy seasons when downtime needs to be addressed quickly. The profession requires both technical skills and physical endurance, as work can be physically demanding and performed in environments with high noise levels, oil, or dirt.

Salary development over time

The salary for tractor repairers has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,900 SEK per month, increasing to 33 200 SEK in 2023 and further to 34 400 SEK in 2024. This represents a total salary increase of approximately 7.8% over the period. This positive trend can partly be explained by increased demand for qualified repairers as agricultural machinery becomes more technologically advanced, and by a shortage of trained workforce in the industry. Additionally, the labor market's need for specialized mechanics has contributed to rising wages, especially in regions with higher competition for skills.

Tractor repairer salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 34 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,100 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school 3 years)
• Highest salary: 36,300 SEK/month (male, regional sector, high school up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage (average): 207 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 94% of men's salary (men: 34 500 SEK, women: 32 500 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on employer and region, but the most noticeable differences are between public and regional sectors.

Education and qualifications

To work as a tractor repairer, a high school education in vehicle or mechanical engineering is usually required, often supplemented with practical training or internships. Many employers also seek certifications in vehicle mechanics and experience working with agricultural machinery. Self-study and specialized courses can be advantageous, especially in new vehicle electronics and hydraulics.

• High school education: Vehicle and transport program, specialization in passenger cars or mechanical engineering (3 years)
• Internship/Trainee: Internships are often part of the education and highly valued for employability
• Certifications: Courses/certificates in hydraulics, electronics, or mechanical engineering are advantageous
• Prerequisites: Technical interest and good grades in mathematics and science subjects
• Further education: Opportunities for additional courses within manufacturer-specific systems or new technology

Common benefits and compensations

Tractor repairers are often offered benefits such as work shoes, work clothing, and tool allowances. Other common benefits include wellness contributions, opportunities for employer-funded training, and overtime pay for work outside regular hours. Some employers also provide occupational pensions and discounts on spare parts and equipment.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for tractor repairers is characterized by a paradoxical situation where many positions are vacant, yet there is relatively high unemployment within the profession. Competition varies depending on region and employer, but those with specialized skills in new technology and electronics often have an advantage. Challenges in the profession include physically demanding tasks, working under time pressure, and sometimes hard-to-reach workplaces. Rapid technological development requires continuous skills update to handle new machinery and systems. The work environment also involves exposure to noise, dirt, and heavy lifting, demanding good physical health and safety awareness.

Tips for those who want to become tractor repairers

To succeed as a tractor repairer, it is good to be meticulous, solution-oriented, and genuinely interested in technology. Developing analytical skills facilitates troubleshooting and repairs, while good physical endurance is needed for often heavy and practical tasks. It is also important to be communicative, as collaboration with colleagues and customers is part of daily work. Staying updated on new technological solutions and machine models provides an advantage in the job market. Flexibility is a strength, as work may sometimes involve on-call duties or emergency repairs. Lastly, a safety-conscious approach is valued, since the job can involve risks during tasks like lifting or working with electrical systems.

Key facts about tractor repairers

• Salary range: 30,100–36,300 SEK/month
• Average salary: 34 400 SEK/month
• Education level: High school (3 years), specialization in vehicles/mechanics
• Work environment: Workshop and field, often physically demanding
• Demand: 481 job openings nationwide, large opportunities across the country

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a tractor repairer can advance to leadership roles such as supervisor, workshop manager, or specialized technician in fields like hydraulics or electronics. The industry’s outlook is considered stable, with large employment opportunities according to the Swedish Public Employment Service forecasts. Over five years, demand is expected to remain unchanged, but rapid technological development may create new specialist roles. Both private and public sectors recruit, and further education in related areas like machinery service or technical sales is also possible. The profession is part of the motor vehicle mechanics and vehicle repairers, where the recruitment situation nationally is characterized by both skill shortages and high unemployment. For those willing to further their education and keep up with industry developments, there are good chances for long-term employment and career growth.

Frequently asked questions about tractor repairers

• What is the average salary of a tractor repairer?
  - A tractor repairer has an average salary of 34 400 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development for tractor repairers progressed?
  - The average salary has increased from 31,900 SEK in 2022 to 34 400 SEK in 2024, which corresponds to an increase of approximately 7.8%.
• Are there differences in salary between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn on average 34 500 SEK and women 32 500 SEK, meaning women earn 94% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a tractor repairer?
  - High school education in vehicle technology or mechanical engineering, often supplemented with practical training and certifications.
• What is the job market like for tractor repairers?
  - There are 481 job openings nationwide in the profession, and opportunities are considered to be plentiful.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for tractor repairers?
  - The highest salary is 36,300 SEK (male, regional sector), and the lowest is 30,100 SEK (female, public sector).
• What tasks does a tractor repairer perform?
  - Servicing, troubleshooting, repairing, and maintaining tractors and other agricultural machinery.