Operations manager, agriculture mixed plant species

What does a farm operations manager with mixed crops do? – Tasks and work environment

A farm operations manager with mixed crops is responsible for planning, leading, and following up on daily activities on farms where multiple types of crops are cultivated. Tasks include scheduling and distributing work, monitoring machinery, managing purchases of seeds and fertilizers, and ensuring compliance with environmental and occupational safety laws. The role often also involves financial follow-up, personnel management, and contact with suppliers and customers. The work environment is diverse, involving both administrative work and outdoor physical tasks, requiring flexibility and the ability to handle rapid changes in workload depending on the season and weather conditions.

Salary development over time

The salary for farm operations managers with mixed crops has increased slightly over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 29,716 SEK per month, rising the following year to 29 958 SEK. In 2024, the average salary has continued upward and now stands at 30 083 SEK per month. The total increase corresponds to approximately 1.2 percent over the three-year period, representing a modest but steady growth. Salary increases are linked to a relatively constant demand for competent managers, while the industry is influenced by efficiency improvements and increased demands for specialization. However, the market is sensitive to external factors such as weather, commodity prices, and political decisions, which can affect salary development in the long run.

Farm operations manager – salary and conditions 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 operations manager with mixed crops, a high school education in natural resources is usually required, preferably supplemented with post-secondary courses or training in agriculture, crop production, or leadership. Practical experience is highly valued, and many employers favor candidates who have worked practically on farms before taking on managerial responsibilities. Additional skills can be acquired through various certifications and further training in environmental management, occupational safety, and machinery technology.

• Education type: Natural resources program (3 years) at high school
• Post-secondary courses: Focused on agriculture, crop production, or management
• Certifications: Examples include plant protection, machinery operation certificates
• Internships: Strongly recommended, both during and after education
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for high school

Common benefits and compensations

Farm operations managers are often offered benefits such as free company cars or work vehicles, work clothing, subsidized meals, and sometimes housing on the farm. Some employers also offer opportunities for further education and skill development, especially in environmental and leadership areas. Other common compensations include overtime pay, per diems for travel, and sometimes bonuses linked to harvests or production.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as farm operations managers with mixed crops can vary depending on region and season. Since the industry often requires practical experience, it can be difficult for newly educated individuals to quickly establish themselves in the job market. Challenges also include managing rapid weather changes, new environmental requirements, and technological developments in machinery. Many employers also seek good leadership skills and the ability to organize work teams effectively. As the profession is part of a broad occupational group, the exact level of competition is hard to assess, but there is a stable number of job openings. The lack of detailed statistics makes it difficult to provide an exact forecast for future competition.

Tips for aspiring farm operations managers with mixed crops

To succeed as a farm operations manager with mixed crops, it's beneficial to be both organized and flexible, as the work requires planning but also quick decision-making during unexpected events. A strong interest in technology and environmental issues is helpful, since modern farms are often technologically advanced and environmentally conscious. Being communicative and having good teamwork skills are important, especially when managing large or seasonal teams. It is recommended to seek internships or summer jobs early to build experience and networks. The ability to handle stress and prioritize correctly in pressured situations is crucial. Continuing education and staying updated on new laws and technologies strengthen your position in the job market. Engagement and genuine interest in agricultural development are also personal qualities valued by employers.

Key facts about farm operations managers with mixed crops

• Education level: High school diploma in natural resources, often supplemented with courses
• Work environment: Varied between office, machinery hall, and field
• Work form: Varies, often seasonal with personnel responsibilities
• Demand: 360 job openings according to current statistics
• Special skills: Crop production, leadership, and machinery technology

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years in the role as a farm operations manager with mixed crops, there are opportunities to move into larger responsibilities, such as farm manager, business developer, or advisor within agricultural organizations and cooperatives. Specializations within organic farming, machinery technology, or plant breeding are also possible. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, it is difficult to give an exact forecast for future job prospects due to limited statistics. However, a steady number of vacancies exists within the profession, and the development of new crops and increased digitalization may create new opportunities over time.

Frequently asked questions about farm operations managers with mixed crops

• What does a farm operations manager in mixed crops earn?
  - The average salary is 30 083 SEK per month according to current statistics.
• What education is required to become a farm operations manager?
  - High school education in natural resources is recommended, preferably supplemented with post-secondary courses and internships.
• What is the work environment like for a farm operations manager?
  - The work environment is varied and involves both administrative tasks, machinery management, and outdoor fieldwork.
• Are there many job openings in this profession?
  - Yes, there are approximately 360 job openings within the profession according to the latest statistics.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Organized, flexible, communicative, and interested in technology and the environment are valued qualities.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The outlook is uncertain due to limited statistics, but there is steady demand within the profession.
• What benefits can be included in the job?
  - Common benefits include free company car, work clothing, subsidized meals, and sometimes housing on the farm.