Operations manager, agriculture, horticulture

What does an operations manager in agriculture and horticulture do? – Tasks and work environment

An operations manager in agriculture and horticulture is responsible for leading and coordinating daily activities on farms and cultivation sites. The work often includes planning production, supervising staff, financial follow-up, and contact with suppliers and clients. The role also involves responsibility for personnel, machinery, and work environment issues. The work environment can vary greatly depending on the season and the focus of the operation, with tasks performed both outdoors and indoors, involving physical effort and technical elements.

Salary development over time

The salary for operations managers in agriculture and horticulture has shown steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 26,500 SEK, increasing to 27 600 SEK in 2023. The latest recorded period, 2024, reports an average salary of 29 300 SEK. This represents an overall increase of about 11% over three years, slightly above the average salary growth for similar professions within natural resource management. This trend can partly be explained by increased demand for qualified leadership in agriculture, as well as a growing need for efficient resource use and modernization of work methods. The highest salary, 30,300 SEK, is found among privately employed men, while the lowest, 28,000 SEK, applies to women in the same profession.

Operations manager, agriculture, horticulture salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 29 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 28,000 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 30,300 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 176 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 92% of men's salary (women: 28,000 SEK, men: 30,300 SEK)
• Regional differences: Specific regional salary differences are not available in available statistics

Education and qualifications

To work as an operations manager in agriculture and horticulture, a combination of relevant education and practical experience is usually required. Many have a vocational program in natural resources at upper secondary level, often supplemented with further training or specialized courses in leadership, economics, or technology. Practical experience from agriculture or horticulture is often crucial to securing employment and succeeding in the role.

• Formal education: Natural resources program (3 years) or equivalent adult education
• Further training: Courses in leadership, economics, work environment, and technology
• Internship: Longer internships or trainee positions are recommended
• Certifications: Industry-specific certificates, e.g., plant protection or machinery licenses
• Prerequisites: Experience from agriculture or horticulture is advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Operations managers in agriculture and horticulture are often offered benefits such as company cars, wellness allowances, and opportunities for skills development. Other common compensations include per diems for travel, mobile phones, and sometimes housing on-site. Pensions and insurance coverage via the employer are also typical.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an operations manager in agriculture and horticulture can vary depending on region and season. Since the profession requires both leadership skills and technical knowledge, it is often difficult to find suitable candidates, especially in smaller towns. Challenges in the role often involve balancing economic demands with sustainability goals and managing seasonal workload variations. In some cases, a shortage of qualified labor can lead to increased workload for existing managers. The technological development within the industry also raises demands for ongoing training and adaptability.

Tips for aspiring operations managers in agriculture and horticulture

To succeed as an operations manager in agriculture and horticulture, it is beneficial to combine leadership skills with a strong interest in nature and technology. An analytical mindset helps in planning and monitoring operations efficiently, while good communication skills facilitate leadership and relationship building. Flexibility and problem-solving abilities are crucial for handling unforeseen challenges, especially during busy periods. Early internships or seasonal work are recommended to gain experience and contacts in the industry. Continuous skills development, such as courses in sustainable farming, also increases employability. Ultimately, genuine engagement in sustainability and development is an important driver for long-term success and satisfaction in the role.

Key facts about Operations Manager, agriculture, horticulture

• Educational level: Natural resources program or equivalent adult education
• Work environment: Varies, both outdoors and indoors, often seasonal
• Typical employment type: Permanent employment with supervisory responsibility
• Demand: 360 available jobs within the profession of horticulturist
• Gender differences: Women earn 92% of men's salary

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an operations manager in agriculture and horticulture, opportunities include advancing to larger operations, taking on more complex projects, or further education as a production manager or entrepreneur within green industries. It is also common for experienced managers to move into advisory roles or work on developing new cultivation methods and sustainability projects. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, there is currently no specific outlook for this profession due to limited data, but the number of available positions indicates continued demand, especially for individuals with leadership experience and technical skills.

Frequently asked questions about Operations Manager, agriculture, horticulture

• What is the salary of a Operations Manager, agriculture, horticulture?
  - The average salary is 29 300 SEK per month, with an hourly rate of 176 SEK.
• Are there significant salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn 92% of what men do (28,000 SEK compared to 30,300 SEK per month).
• What education is required to become an operations manager in agriculture and horticulture?
  - Usually, a natural resources education at upper secondary level plus industry experience.
• What is the job market like for this profession?
  - There are 360 available jobs and demand is stable.
• What are the duties of an operations manager in agriculture and horticulture?
  - Responsibilities include work management, production, economics, personnel management, and supplier contact.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Company car, wellness allowance, skills development, and sometimes housing on-site.
• Is there potential for career development?
  - Yes, many move on to larger responsibilities, advisory roles, or own businesses within the industry.