Timber buyers

What does a Virkesinköpare do? – Tasks and work environment

A Virkesinköpare works with acquiring raw materials, mainly timber, from forest owners for sawmills, pulp industries, or energy companies. The profession involves identifying and contacting forest owners, negotiating deals, establishing contracts, and following up on deliveries. Besides sales and negotiation, advice on forest management and planning harvests are often included. The work is largely field-based, with forest inventories and meetings with landowners as recurring activities, but administrative tasks at an office are also common. Days are characterized by a mix of physical work and social interactions, requiring both forestry knowledge and good communication skills.

Salary development over time

The salary for Virkesinköpare has shown a steady increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 40,100 SEK per month, rising to 41 600 SEK in 2023 and further to 43 100 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total salary increase of approximately 7.5% over the period. The positive trend can be explained by increased demand for forestry expertise, especially as sustainability and raw material supply become more important in the industry. Salary growth has also been driven by competition for experienced purchasers and higher requirements for specialist knowledge in forest management, logistics, and contract law. Despite some regional and employer variation, the profession has generally strengthened financially, reflecting the central role Virkesinköpare play in the forest industry value chain.

Virkesinköpare salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 43 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,000 SEK/month (female, private sector, 3-year high school education)
• Highest salary: 48,300 SEK/month (male, public sector, postgraduate degree)
• Hourly wage: 259 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Men 43 400 SEK, women 42 200 SEK (women earn 97% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data varies, but salaries are influenced by labor market conditions and forest access in different parts of the country

Education and qualifications

To work as a Virkesinköpare, a forestry-related university degree is generally required, such as a bachelor's in forestry or a forestry master's degree. Many employers also value practical experience from forestry or sales. In addition to formal education, the ability to build relationships, negotiate, and understand business processes is highly valued. Some employers offer internal trainee programs or introductory courses for new employees.

• Bachelor's degree in forestry: 3 years at university
• Forestry master's degree: 3 years, often at SLU
• Courses in sales and negotiation: Can be advantageous
• Internship/trainee: Common in larger forestry companies
• Prerequisites: Often natural science high school or equivalent

Common benefits and compensations

Virkesinköpare are often offered company cars for business trips, wellness allowances, and flexible working hours. Pension schemes and extra vacation days are common among larger employers, along with bonus or commission systems linked to achievement of purchasing targets. Some also include training support and work clothing for fieldwork.

Competition and challenges

Competition for Virkesinköpare positions varies depending on region and economic conditions within the forestry industry. Since the tasks require both technical and social skills, it can be difficult to find candidates with the right combination of education and experience. A challenge in the profession is managing complex negotiations with different types of forest owners while ensuring sustainable business deals. Seasonal variations and weather conditions can affect workload, especially during periods of intensive harvesting or storm damage. The ability to adapt to digital tools and new ways of working is becoming increasingly important as the industry modernizes.

Tips for those wanting to become a Virkesinköpare

To succeed as a Virkesinköpare, it is good to combine business acumen with a genuine interest in forestry and nature. Strong communication skills are essential when negotiating contracts and building long-term relationships with landowners. Independence helps in planning and structuring workdays often spent in the field, while analytical skills assist in valuing forests and planning purchases. Being solution-oriented and flexible is also important, as unexpected situations and quick decisions are part of everyday life. Early internships, networking within the forestry industry, and staying updated on digital tools can give you an edge in the job market.

Key facts about Virkesinköpare

• Educational level: University degree in forestry or equivalent
• Work environment: Combination of fieldwork and office work
• Typical employment: Permanent full-time position
• Demand: Approximately 360 job openings within the profession (2024)
• Special skills: Negotiation, forest management, and business law

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, opportunities exist to advance to senior Virkesinköpare, regional manager, or take on leadership roles within purchasing, production, or forest management. Some choose to specialize in consulting, certification issues, or digital forestry services. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, it is difficult to give an exact assessment for Virkesinköpare due to limited data, but overall demand remains stable for specialists and advisors in forestry. The transition towards sustainable raw material supply and digitalization is expected to create new development opportunities, although the economic cycle and access to forest resources can influence recruitment locally.

Frequently asked questions about Virkesinköpare

• What does a Virkesinköpare earn?
  - The average salary is 43 100 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, education, and employer.
• What education is required to become a Virkesinköpare?
  - Usually, a university degree in forestry or similar is required.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 97% of what men do within the profession.
• What is the working environment like for a Virkesinköpare?
  - The work involves a mix of forest fieldwork and administrative tasks at an office.
• What are the biggest challenges in the profession?
  - Combining business skills with forestry expertise and managing complex negotiations are central challenges.
• What are the future prospects for Virkesinköpare?
  - Demand is considered stable but may vary depending on region and economic conditions within the forestry industry.
• Are there career opportunities within the profession?
  - Yes, there are opportunities to advance to senior roles or leadership positions within purchasing and forest management.