Estate manager, agricultural beekeeper and silk grower

What does an estate manager within agriculture, beekeeping, and silkworm farming do? – Tasks and work environment

An estate manager within agriculture, beekeeping, and silkworm farming is responsible for planning, leading, and optimizing the operation of larger farms, apiaries, and sometimes silkworm farms. Tasks include strategic and operational activities such as financial planning, negotiations with tenants, purchasing, personnel management, as well as overseeing production and environmental considerations. The role often involves close collaboration with landowners, authorities, and contractors. The work environment can vary between office work, field visits, and practical work on farms or apiaries, where flexibility and problem-solving skills are essential.

Salary development over time

The salary for estate managers within agriculture, beekeeping, and silkworm farming has shown a steady but modest upward trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 54,500 SEK per month, increasing to 55 000 SEK in 2023 and further to 56 100 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to a total increase of about 3 percent over three years, which is slightly above the general salary level for similar professions. The salary increase can largely be explained by increased demand for qualified expertise in sustainable farming, digitalization of the agricultural sector, and requirements for efficient management. Additionally, increased complexity in job tasks and the need for specialized education have contributed to rising salary levels in the profession.

Estate manager within agriculture, beekeeping, and silkworm farming salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 56 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 43,100 SEK/month (female, public sector, 3-year high school education)
• Highest salary: 64,000 SEK/month (male, private sector, 3+ years post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage (average): 337 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 55 500 SEK, women 53,000 SEK (highest observed salary); specific average data for women is not available
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To work as an estate manager within agriculture, beekeeping, and silkworm farming, a post-secondary education in agriculture, agronomy, or similar fields is usually required. Practical experience from farming, beekeeping, or property management is often advantageous, as well as knowledge in economics, environmental law, and leadership. Several employers also require specialized courses or certifications in areas such as organic farming or property law.

• Post-secondary education: Examples include a land surveyor (3 years) or agronomist (5 years)
• Certifications: Specialized courses in beekeeping, environmental management, or property management
• Internships: Strongly recommended during education
• Prerequisites: High school diploma, preferably with a focus on natural resource management
• Self-study/online: Possible to supplement with digital courses in beekeeping or silkworm farming

Common benefits and compensation

The profession as an estate manager within agriculture, beekeeping, and silkworm farming often offers company cars, wellness allowances, opportunities for professional development, and sometimes favorable pension schemes. Other common benefits include flexible working hours and the possibility to work partly remotely depending on tasks and season.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as estate managers within agriculture, beekeeping, and silkworm farming is moderate but gradually increasing as more people seek sustainable and green industries. A challenge is that the role requires broad competence in economics, environment, and technology, which means employers set high demands on education and experience. Seasonal variations and dependence on weather conditions also affect workload. Additionally, continuous updating of knowledge regarding legislation and digital tools is necessary. Combining strategic leadership with practical problem-solving is often key to long-term success in the profession.

Tips for aspiring estate managers within agriculture, beekeeping, and silkworm farming

To succeed as an estate manager within agriculture, beekeeping, and silkworm farming, it is good to combine analytical skills with a genuine interest in farming and nature. A structured work approach facilitates planning and financial follow-up, and good communication skills are crucial for collaboration with landowners and staff. Flexibility is important as workdays can vary greatly in content and pace depending on the season and weather. Being curious and open to new technology also offers advantages, especially as digital tools become increasingly important in management. Independence and initiative are appreciated by employers, especially when unexpected situations arise. Finally, building a network early, both among industry colleagues and within related fields, is wise.

Key facts about estate managers within agriculture, beekeeping, and silkworm farming

• Education level: Post-secondary education (3–5 years) recommended
• Work environment: Combination of office, field visits, and practical work
• Typical employment: Full-time, sometimes with seasonal variation
• Demand: Approximately 175 job openings in Sweden (2024)
• Special skills: Economics, environment, digital tools, and leadership

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, an estate manager within agriculture, beekeeping, and silkworm farming can advance to more strategic roles, such as manager of larger estates, consultant in agricultural advisory, or specialist in sustainability issues. There are also opportunities to work on development projects in organic farming or to start one's own business. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, demand for qualified managers remains stable, with some growth in green industries and sustainability-oriented services. However, technological innovations and changes in environmental legislation influence the sector, making ongoing skills development important for long-term career success.

Frequently asked questions about estate managers within agriculture, beekeeping, and silkworm farming

• What is the salary of a estate manager within agriculture, beekeeping, and silkworm farming?
  - The average salary is 56 100 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What education is required to become an estate manager within agriculture?
  - Post-secondary education, such as land surveyor or agronomist, is recommended.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, the highest observed salary for men is 64,000 SEK and for women 53,000 SEK; the average salary for women is not specified.
• What are the most common job tasks?
  - Financial planning, personnel management, negotiations, production follow-up, and environmental work.
• What does the job market look like?
  - There are about 175 job openings in Sweden, indicating good demand.
• Are specific certifications necessary?
  - Some employers require certifications in areas such as environmental management or property management.
• What personal qualities are valued in this profession?
  - Analytical skills, flexibility, communication skills, and independence.