Plant protection specialist

What does a plant protection specialist do? – Tasks and work environment

A plant protection specialist works with analyzing, preventing, and combating pests, diseases, and weeds within agriculture, horticulture, or forestry. Tasks include advising farmers and growers, evaluating plant protection strategies, and monitoring cultivation results. The role often combines field visits with office work, where documentation, data collection, and reporting are central components. The specialist collaborates closely with other agronomists, researchers, and authorities to ensure sustainable production and reduce environmental impact. The work environment is varied and can involve outdoor work under different weather conditions, as well as participation in training and seminars.

Salary development over time

The salary for plant protection specialists has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 40,300 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 45 200 SEK, reflecting a salary increase of approximately 12% compared to the previous year. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 45 700 SEK per month. This positive trend indicates a growing demand for specialized skills in plant protection, driven by an increased focus on sustainability and food safety. Although detailed regional differences are lacking, the trend suggests that the profession is becoming more valued, especially in the private sector. The gender pay gap remains evident, influencing the average salary.

Plant protection specialist salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 45 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,400 SEK/month (female, private sector worker, high school education)
• Highest salary: 49,300 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, unspecified education)
• Hourly wage (average): 275 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 48 700 SEK/month, Women 41 300 SEK/month (women 85% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: No detailed statistics available

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a plant protection specialist typically involves post-secondary education in agronomy, biology, or plant science. Specialization in plant protection, entomology, or plant pathology is often advantageous, as well as experience working in agriculture. Practical experience and training in environmental and chemical legislation are also important parts of the skill profile.

• Bachelor's degree in agronomy, biology, or plant science (3 years)
• Master's degree or further training in plant protection (1–2 additional years)
• Certification courses in pesticides and environmental safety
• Internships or trainee programs in agriculture or horticulture
• Prerequisite: Science-oriented high school education

Common benefits and compensations

Plant protection specialists are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness grants, and opportunities for further education. Flexible working hours and access to a company car for field visits are common. In some cases, bonus schemes and extra vacation days are also provided, especially in larger companies or government agencies.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a plant protection specialist is generally moderate but varies depending on region and employer. One of the main challenges is staying updated on legislation and new research findings within plant protection, while also meeting increasing demands for environmental considerations and sustainability. Technological development and digitalization also impose new skill requirements, especially in precision agriculture and data-driven analysis. The gender pay gap remains a challenge for the industry. Limited access to training places can also affect the availability of qualified workforce.

Tips for aspiring plant protection specialists

To succeed as a plant protection specialist, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a genuine interest in sustainable agriculture. Curiosity and a willingness to continuously learn are important, as legislation and methods change rapidly. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with farmers and authorities, helping research results to be practically useful. Accuracy and structure are vital for effective documentation and follow-up. Finally, patience and perseverance are valuable, as the work often involves long-term projects and field studies requiring dedication and engagement.

Key facts about plant protection specialists

• Average salary: 45 700 SEK/month
• Salary range: 34,400–49,300 SEK/month
• Gender difference: Women earn 85% of men's salary
• Work environment: Combined field and office work
• Educational level: University degree in agronomy or biology

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years in the profession, a plant protection specialist can advance to senior advisor, project manager, or take on a more specialized role in research and development. There are also opportunities to work internationally, such as in aid projects or global food companies. The Employment Service's forecasts indicate that there are 360 job openings within the group of specialists and advisors in agriculture, but due to limited data, no precise assessment of future recruitment for plant protection specialists is made. The job market is influenced by environmental regulations, climate change, and technological development, suggesting that the need for specialized skills in plant protection will continue in the future.

Frequently asked questions about plant protection specialists

• What is the average salary of a plant protection specialist?
  - The average salary is 45 700 SEK per month.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a plant protection specialist?
  - The highest salary is 49,300 SEK and the lowest is 34,400 SEK per month.
• What are the gender differences in salary for a plant protection specialist?
  - Women earn on average 41 300 SEK, which is 85% of men's average salary of 48 700 SEK.
• What education is required to become a plant protection specialist?
  - A university degree in agronomy, biology, or plant science is recommended, often supplemented with specialized courses in plant protection.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The Employment Service does not make an exact forecast, but currently there are 360 job openings within the group.
• What tasks does a plant protection specialist perform?
  - Analysis, advising, field visits, evaluation of plant protection strategies, and documentation.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - No detailed statistics on regional differences are available.