Replacement, mixed operation

What does a substitute worker in mixed farming do? – Tasks and work environment

A substitute worker in mixed farming temporarily replaces regular staff at agricultural enterprises with both animal husbandry and crop cultivation. The job tasks vary greatly and can include everything from milking, feeding, and caring for animals to machinery operation, sowing, harvesting, and maintenance of technical equipment. Depending on the season and the farm's focus, the substitute encounters both intensive periods and more routine days. The work environment is usually outdoors or inside farm buildings, meaning that work is affected by weather and seasons. Physical endurance, flexibility, and good teamwork skills are important qualities as the pace and tasks can change quickly.

Wage development over time

The salary for a substitute worker in mixed farming has shown a slight positive trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 26,900 SEK per month, which decreased slightly to 26 700 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the salary recovered and increased to 27 600 SEK, corresponding to an increase of about 3.4% compared to the previous year. This development reflects a stable but slow salary increase within the profession. Variations can partly be explained by changes in demand, labor market structure, and the educational level of employees. Salary development is also influenced by regional differences and sector affiliation, where public and private employers may offer different conditions.

Substitute workers in mixed farming salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 27 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,300 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 50,400 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 166 SEK
• Women earn: 25,300 SEK (89% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 28,500 SEK
• Regional differences: Salary variations occur, especially between rural areas and urban centers, but exact levels vary depending on employer and region.

Education and qualifications

To work as a substitute in mixed farming, a high school education with a focus on agriculture is often required, but experience is highly valued during recruitment. Practical knowledge of animal husbandry, crop cultivation, and machinery is central, and many employers prefer candidates who have completed relevant internships or have prior work experience in similar environments. Additional courses or certificates, such as machinery operator licenses, can enhance employment opportunities.

• High school education: Natural resources program with agricultural specialization (3 years)
• Internship: Often work-based learning during education
• Certificates: Machinery operator, animal welfare courses
• Experience: Previous work in agriculture is highly meritorious
• Additional courses: Possible via adult education or online learning

Common benefits and compensation

Common benefits for substitutes in mixed farming include per diems when working away from home, work clothing, wellness allowances, and sometimes subsidized lunches. Some employers also offer accommodation or transportation assistance to the workplace. Irregular working hours can be compensated with overtime pay and extra days off for weekend work.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a substitute in mixed farming is relatively low, but the availability of jobs can vary greatly depending on season and region. The shortage of trained labor is a recurring problem, especially during busy periods like spring planting and harvest. Physical strain, varying working hours, and demands for broad skills mean the profession requires endurance and adaptability. Additionally, the work environment can be strenuous in bad weather or when working with large animals and heavy machinery. Despite the challenges, many are attracted to the profession for the freedom and variety it offers.

Tips for those who want to become a substitute in mixed farming

To succeed as a substitute in mixed farming, it is good to combine practical skills with an interest in both animals and technology. Flexibility makes it easier when tasks quickly shift between different activities and environments. Precision is important when handling animals and machinery, as well as the ability to quickly learn new routines on different farms. A social and communicative personality facilitates collaboration with farmers and colleagues. Being proactive and independent helps in autonomous work, especially when unexpected problems need to be solved on-site. Physical endurance and stress tolerance are also crucial for handling heavy lifts and long working days. Finally, a willingness to continually learn new things provides opportunities for development within the profession and taking on more advanced tasks.

Key facts about substitutes in mixed farming

• Education level: High school education (natural resources) recommended
• Work environment: Varied, often outdoors or inside farm buildings
• Common employment type: Fixed-term or hourly employment
• Demand: 360 job openings in the occupational group according to latest survey
• Special skills: Practical skills in both animal husbandry and crop cultivation

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a substitute in mixed farming, many have built broad experience that opens opportunities for further development in agriculture. Common career paths include becoming a permanent employee on a larger farm, taking on a supervisory role, or specializing in areas such as machinery maintenance or animal health. Some choose to further their education to become an agricultural engineer or agronomist to take on greater responsibilities or work in advisory roles. According to the Employment Service's occupational forecast, there is no precise assessment for this specific profession due to limited data, but the large number of job openings indicates ongoing demand. The future will be influenced by structural changes in agriculture and technological development, creating new opportunities for those willing to upgrade their skills.

Frequently asked questions about substitutes in mixed farming

• What does a substitute in mixed farming earn?
  - The average salary is 27 600 SEK per month, but variations occur depending on experience, region, and gender.
• How to become a substitute in mixed farming?
  - Most commonly, a high school education in natural resources, supplemented with practical training and possible certificates for machinery and animal handling.
• What are the job responsibilities of a substitute in mixed farming?
  - The duties include animal care, crop cultivation, machinery operation and maintenance, as well as replacing regular staff when needed.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 89% of what men do in the profession.
• What is the work environment like for a substitute?
  - The work environment is often physically demanding and varies between outdoor work and work inside farm buildings.
• What are the future prospects in this profession?
  - The prognosis is uncertain, but there are many job openings within the occupational group according to recent surveys.
• Can I work as a part-time substitute?
  - Yes, many substitutes are hourly employed or work seasonally depending on the need.