Operations manager, agriculture, agricultural plants

What does a farm manager in agriculture do – tasks and work environment

A farm manager specializing in crop production is responsible for the daily operations of cultivation activities on farms or larger agricultural enterprises. Tasks include planning and executing sowing, watering, maintenance, plant protection, and harvesting of various crops. The role often involves leadership responsibilities for a team of employees and seasonal workers, as well as coordinating machinery and resources to ensure efficient production. The work environment is diverse and can include both administrative work at an office and practical outdoor tasks, sometimes under harsh weather conditions and during peak seasons.

Salary development over time

The salary for a farm manager in agriculture and crop production has shown a slight positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 29,716 SEK per month, increasing to 29 958 SEK in 2023 and further to 30 083 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of approximately 1.2% over the period. The salary increase is modest, which can be explained by steady but not rapidly growing demand for labor in the profession, along with ongoing competition from automation and efficiency improvements in the sector. Despite these small changes, the trend indicates that the profession maintains stability in the job market, although large salary jumps are uncommon.

Farm Manager, agriculture, crop production salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 30 083 SEK/month
• Lowest/Highest salary: Data unavailable
• Hourly wage: 181 SEK
• Gender differences: Data unavailable
• Regional differences: Data unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a farm manager in agriculture and crop production, a combination of practical experience and formal education in agriculture, crop cultivation, or related fields is usually required. Many have completed vocational programs or higher education in agriculture, but it is also common to start as a worker and advance to managerial positions through work experience. Some employers require specific certifications in plant protection or machinery handling.

• Formal education: Vocational high school or YH training (1–3 years)
• Certifications: Plant protection, machinery operator licenses
• Internship: Work placement/internship is common
• Prerequisites: Basic knowledge in agronomy and leadership
• Tips for choosing: Combine education with summer jobs on farms for practical experience

Common benefits and compensations

Farm managers in agriculture are often offered company cars, work clothing, and sometimes housing on the farm. Additional benefits may include wellness allowances, mobile phones, and opportunities for further training in leadership or environmental work. Bonuses and performance-based compensation are also common, especially at larger farms or enterprises with high turnover.

Competition and challenges

The job market for farm managers in agriculture and crop production is characterized by some competition, particularly for the most attractive positions with greater responsibility and better conditions. Challenges include seasonal variations, weather dependency, and technological development requiring continuous adaptation. The availability of positions is difficult to predict due to limited data, making it hard to forecast how competition will develop. Vacant positions are often categorized under broader job titles, which means specific farm manager roles may be more rare than the statistics suggest. Flexibility, technical interest, and good planning skills are essential for success in the role.

Tips for aspiring farm managers in agriculture

To succeed as a farm manager focusing on crop production, being organized and solution-oriented is beneficial. Gaining practical experience early through summer jobs or internships provides valuable insights into the industry and strengthens leadership skills. A strong interest in technology and sustainability is advantageous, as modern farms demand digital competence and environmental awareness. Flexibility and the ability to handle unexpected situations are important, especially during intensive periods like harvest. Further education in crop cultivation and leadership makes advancement easier. Good communication skills facilitate cooperation with staff and partners. Lastly, an analytical mindset is appreciated, as planning and monitoring production are central to success in the role.

Key facts about Farm Manager, agriculture, crop production

• Education level: Vocational high school or YH training in natural resources
• Work environment: Varied, both outdoors and in offices
• Work form: Full-time, often seasonal work
• Demand: Approximately 360 job openings in the profession
• Special skills: Crop cultivation, machinery handling, leadership

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, farm managers in agriculture can advance to overall farm managers or take responsibility for larger agricultural operations. Opportunities to specialize in technology, environmental issues, or economics are good, especially for those combining experience with further education. According to the Employment Service, there is no precise forecast for the profession's future outlook due to limited data, but there are indications of continued demand for competent leaders in the green sector. With around 360 job openings in the profession, there are opportunities for those who are flexible and willing to develop with the industry. Technological shifts and increased sustainability requirements are also expected to create new career opportunities as agriculture modernizes.

Frequently asked questions about Farm Manager, agriculture, crop production

• What does a Farm Manager, agriculture, crop production earn?
  - The average salary is 30 083 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a farm manager in agriculture?
  - High school vocational programs or YH training in agriculture are recommended, often in combination with practical experience.
• What is the work environment like for a farm manager in agriculture?
  - The work environment is varied, involving both administrative tasks in the office and practical outdoor work.
• Are there many job openings for farm managers in agriculture?
  - There are approximately 360 job openings currently.
• What benefits are common for farm managers in agriculture?
  - Company cars, work clothing, sometimes housing on the farm, and wellness allowances are common benefits.
• How has the salary developed in recent years?
  - The salary has increased slightly, from 29,716 SEK/month in 2022 to 30 083 SEK/month in 2024.
• What personal qualities are important for the profession?
  - Being organized, solution-oriented, technically interested, and possessing good leadership skills are important qualities.