Operations manager, agriculture, agricultural pets

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

A farm manager specializing in livestock is responsible for leading and planning the daily operations on farms where animal husbandry is the focus. Tasks include organizing staff and resources, monitoring animal health and welfare, managing feed and equipment purchases. The role also involves reporting, quality checks, and often close collaboration with veterinarians and advisors. The work environment varies and can involve both office work and physical presence in stables and barns, with long workdays and high pace depending on the season and animal needs.

Salary development over time

The salary development for farm managers in agriculture and livestock has shown some stability over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 27,200 SEK per month, while both 2023 and 2024 have shown an average salary of 28 400 SEK. This represents an increase of approximately 4.4% between 2022 and 2023, but the salary level has remained stable since then. This trend reflects relatively low salary growth within the profession, possibly due to stable demand for labor and many professionals working part-time. The unchanged salary in the past year can also be explained by market balance between supply and demand and the limited financial resources of many employers in agriculture.

Farm manager, agriculture, livestock salary – full overview

• Average salary: 28 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,000 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, 3-year secondary education)
• Highest salary: 32,500 SEK/month (female, public sector, up to 2 years of secondary education)
• Hourly wage (average): 171 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 94 % of what men do (27 800 SEK vs 29,700 SEK)
• Regional differences: No specific data available

Education and qualifications

To work as a farm manager in agriculture and livestock, a secondary school natural resources program is usually required, often supplemented with additional training or specialized courses in animal husbandry. Practical experience is highly valuable, and much of the professional skill is built through work on farms. Employers also often require leadership experience and the ability to handle administrative tasks.

• Secondary education: Natural Resources program, specialization in agriculture (3 years)
• Further education: Courses or YH (vocational) training in animal husbandry or agriculture (1–2 years)
• Internship: Workplace-based learning during studies
• Certifications: Possibly required animal handling certificates or machinery licenses
• Leadership training: Meritorious for the role of farm manager

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for farm managers in agriculture and livestock include per diem allowances when working elsewhere, access to work clothing, wellness contributions, and sometimes staff housing on the farm. Some employers also offer training support and insurance as supplements to the base salary.

Competition and challenges

The profession of farm manager in agriculture and livestock is characterized by a paradoxical job market: while there are recruitment difficulties, there is also a potential pool of part-time workers. Competition for full-time positions can be fierce, especially in regions dominated by larger farms. Seasonal variations and animal needs can lead to long workdays and high responsibility. Physically demanding tasks and high flexibility requirements are other challenges, as is the potentially stressful work environment during certain periods of the year. Despite this, good opportunities exist for committed individuals willing to develop both practical and administrative skills.

Tips for aspiring farm managers in agriculture and livestock

To succeed as a farm manager in agriculture and livestock, it’s good to combine organizational skills with a genuine interest in animals and nature. Precision is crucial when planning and documenting tasks, while leadership skills help motivate and coordinate staff effectively. Flexibility facilitates handling unexpected challenges, and technical interest makes it easier to adopt new machinery or digital tools. Good teamwork and communication skills are also important, especially when liaising with suppliers and advisors. Gaining practical experience early, such as through summer jobs or internships, provides a solid foundation for further development in the profession.

Key facts about farm managers in agriculture and livestock

• Average salary: 28 400 SEK/month
• Salary range: 27,000–32,500 SEK/month
• Gender difference: Women earn 94 % of what men do
• Education requirements: Secondary education in natural resources recommended
• Job market: 360 job openings, good opportunities for employment

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a farm manager in agriculture and livestock, opportunities can open for greater responsibility, such as farm director or production manager at larger farms. Further education in economics, technology, or animal welfare can also lead to advisory or administrative roles within the industry. Employment forecasts indicate large opportunities within the profession, with demand expected to remain stable over the next five years. Recruitment difficulties exist, especially since many work part-time, which means there are good chances for those who are flexible and possess the right skills. The number of available jobs is 360, further highlighting the positive job market for this profession.

Frequently asked questions about farm managers in agriculture and livestock

• What does a farm manager, agriculture, livestock earn?
  - The average salary is 28 400 SEK per month. The salary varies between 27,000 SEK and 32,500 SEK depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• What education is required to become a farm manager in agriculture?
  - Recommended education is a secondary school natural resources program, preferably with further training in animal husbandry or agriculture.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 94% of what men do within the profession.
• What is the state of the job market?
  - Opportunities for employment are large, with currently 360 job openings within the profession.
• What are the most common job tasks?
  - Tasks include personnel management, animal care, planning, purchasing, and administration.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for the profession?
  - The highest salary is 32,500 SEK (female, public sector), and the lowest is 27,000 SEK (female, private sector employee).
• Is experience needed to get a job?
  - Practical experience is highly valued and often a requirement for employment as a farm manager.