Farmer, plant cultivation

What does an estate manager in crop production do? – Tasks and work environment

An estate manager in crop production is responsible for the daily operations and development of crop cultivation on a farm or within a larger agricultural enterprise. Tasks include planning growing seasons, purchasing seeds and fertilizers, monitoring crop growth, and coordinating harvest work. The estate manager often leads a team of employees, manages machinery, and ensures that cultivation complies with environmental and quality standards. The work environment is mostly outdoors and involves both physical work and administrative tasks, requiring flexibility and the ability to make quick decisions under varying weather conditions.

Salary development over time

The salary for estate managers in crop production has shown a relatively stable trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 29,716 SEK per month, which increased slightly to 29 958 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has continued upward to 30 083 SEK per month. The total increase during this period amounts to approximately 1.2 percent. This slow but steady growth may be due to continued demand for skilled estate managers, while the profession is affected by economic cycles and changes within the agricultural sector. Education level and experience often influence individual salaries, but the overall trend is modestly upward.

Estate managers in crop production salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 30 083 SEK/month
• Lowest/Highest salary: Data not available
• Hourly wage: 181 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Data not available
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To work as an estate manager in crop production, a high school education with a focus on agriculture is usually required, often supplemented with vocational college education or practical experience. Many estate managers have also pursued further training in crop production, machinery technology, or leadership to meet industry demands for efficiency and sustainability. Practical experience is often crucial for gaining responsibility as an estate manager.

• High school: Natural Resources program, specializing in agriculture (3 years)
• Vocational college: Estate manager training (1-2 years)
• Internship: Often a requirement for relevant practical experience during education
• Certifications: Courses in plant protection, machinery handling, and work environment
• Prerequisites: Interest in agriculture, technical understanding, and leadership qualities

Common benefits and compensations

Estate managers in crop production are often offered benefits such as company phones, work clothing, subsidized lunches, or flexible working hours during the off-season. Some employers also provide further training, machinery courses, or the possibility of housing on the farm. Bonuses may be awarded for good results or after an intensive harvest period.

Competition and challenges

The job market for estate managers in crop production is characterized by relatively low competition, but the availability of vacancies varies seasonally and regionally. Challenges often include managing weather-dependent production, increasing demands for sustainability and technological development, and attracting and retaining qualified personnel. The industry is also influenced by global market prices for agricultural products and changing regulations regarding the environment and food safety. Success in the profession requires adaptability and a strong interest in agricultural development.

Tips for aspiring estate managers in crop production

To succeed as an estate manager in crop production, it is beneficial to be both proactive and analytical, especially in planning growing seasons and solving unexpected problems. Good leadership is essential for motivating and guiding the team, while communication skills are needed to collaborate with suppliers and clients. Attention to detail and responsibility are important qualities in work related to plant protection and machinery maintenance. An interest in technology and sustainability offers advantages as the industry digitalizes. Finally, flexibility and perseverance should not be underestimated, as workload varies significantly between seasons.

Key facts about estate managers in crop production

• Educational level: High school and vocational college education
• Work environment: Outdoors, practical and leadership work
• Number of available jobs: 360 within the occupational group (May 2024)
• Occupational group: Cultivators of agricultural crops, fruit, and berries
• Future outlook: No assessment due to limited data

Career paths and future prospects

After gaining some years of experience as an estate manager in crop production, opportunities may open for more specialized roles such as production manager, crop production advisor, or farm operations manager at larger agricultural companies. Some choose to start their own business or further their education in agronomy and agricultural economics. According to the latest forecasts from the Employment Service, no specific assessment is provided for this profession due to limited data, but there are 360 available jobs in the occupational group, indicating some demand. The industry's future is influenced by technological shifts, environmental requirements, and developments in Swedish food production.

Frequently asked questions about estate managers in crop production

• What does an estate manager in crop production earn?
  - An estate manager in crop production has an average salary of 30 083 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development been for estate managers in crop production?
  - The salary has increased by approximately 1.2 percent over three years, from 29,716 SEK in 2022 to 30 083 SEK in 2024.
• What education is required to become an estate manager in crop production?
  - High school education in natural resources and preferably additional vocational college education are recommended.
• Are there many available jobs for estate managers in crop production?
  - There are 360 available jobs within the occupational group cultivation of agricultural crops, fruit, and berries.
• What benefits are common for estate managers in crop production?
  - Common benefits include company phone, work clothing, further training, and sometimes housing on the farm.
• What are the future prospects for estate managers in crop production?
  - No specific forecast exists, but technological changes and sustainability issues influence the profession's development.
• What is required to succeed as an estate manager in crop production?
  - Initiative, leadership, technical interest, and perseverance are key qualities in the profession.