Estate manager, agriculture mixed plant species

What does a farm estate manager in mixed crop farming do? – Tasks and work environment

A farm estate manager in mixed crop farming is responsible for the operation, finances, and development of larger agricultural properties with diverse cultivation. Tasks include management planning, budgeting, procurement of contractors, and contact with tenants and authorities. The role also requires monitoring crop results, ensuring compliance with environmental standards, and developing sustainable land use strategies. The work often involves close collaboration with landowners, farmers, and other sector actors, combining office-based tasks with regular visits to the fields.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salaries for farm estate managers in mixed crop farming have steadily increased. In 2022, the average salary was 54,500 SEK per month, rising to 55 000 SEK in 2023 and further to 56 100 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 2.9% over the period. The salary growth has been stable, reflecting continued demand for qualified managers in the agricultural sector. Factors such as increased regulatory complexity, sustainability requirements, and a greater focus on business management contribute to higher salary levels. There is some variation depending on education level, employer type, and regional differences, with private sector employees often experiencing higher salary growth.

Farm estate manager in agriculture – salary, gender, and region

• Average salary: 56 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 43,100 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 64,000 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education of at least 3 years)
• Hourly wage: 337 SEK/hour (hourly employee, 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Men earn on average 55 500 SEK/month; data for women is incomplete, but the highest salary for women is 53,000 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salary variations occur mainly between larger agricultural regions and metropolitan counties

Education and qualifications

To work as a farm estate manager in mixed crop farming, a post-secondary education in agriculture, agronomy, or economics is usually required, often with specialization in property management or crop production. Practical experience from farming or property management is highly valuable, and additional courses in environmental legislation and business development can be advantageous. Many employers prefer candidates who have completed internships or trainee programs to gain a broad understanding of both technical and administrative aspects of the profession.

• Formal education: Post-secondary education in agriculture, agronomy, or economics (3 years or more)
• Certifications: Courses in environmental legislation, property management, and business development
• Practical experience: Experience from farming or trainee programs is meritorious
• Prerequisites: High school diploma, preferably with natural resource or economics focus
• Tips: Combine theoretical education with practical experience and industry contacts for best opportunities

Common benefits and compensations

Among farm estate managers in mixed crop farming, common benefits include company cars, wellness allowances, opportunities for further training, and sometimes bonuses or flexible working hours. Many employers also offer pension contributions and remote work options, especially for administrative tasks.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as farm estate managers in mixed crop farming is moderate, but high demands are placed on both education and practical experience. One of the biggest challenges is staying updated on changing laws and regulations related to environment, economy, and agricultural policy. The role also requires quickly adapting to new technological solutions and digitalization of management processes. A shortage of qualified labor in some regions can create opportunities for those with the right skills. At the same time, market demands for sustainability and efficiency mean managers must be both strategic and operational.

Tips for aspiring farm estate managers in mixed crop farming

To succeed as a farm estate manager in mixed crop farming, it is beneficial to be analytical and able to see the big picture in both economics and cultivation strategies. A strong interest in sustainability issues and new technology makes it easier to identify future development opportunities. Building a broad network within the industry and participating in relevant training increases chances of finding an interesting job. Good communication skills are important for collaboration with farmers, landowners, and authorities. Independence and initiative are needed to drive projects and make decisions in a complex environment. Being solution-oriented and flexible facilitates handling unexpected problems. Patience and perseverance are also advantageous, as results often materialize over the longer term.

Key facts about farm estate managers in mixed crop farming

• Education level: Post-secondary education in agriculture or economics (at least 3 years)
• Work environment: Combination of office work and field visits
• Demand: 175 job openings in Sweden (2024)
• Special skills: Property management, crop production, and environmental legislation

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, there are good opportunities to advance to more specialized roles, such as property manager, sustainability officer, or consultant in agricultural management. The forecast from the Employment Service indicates continued stable demand for qualified farm estate managers, especially within larger agricultural companies and among landowners investing in mixed cultivation and sustainable development. Digitalization and increased environmental requirements are expected to strengthen the need for expertise in both technology and regulations. For those wishing to broaden their career, international work or roles in education and consulting are also possible.

Frequently asked questions about farm estate managers in mixed crop farming

• What does a farm estate manager in mixed crop farming earn?
  - The average salary is 56 100 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, sector, and education.
• What education is required to become a farm estate manager in agriculture?
  - Post-secondary education in agriculture, agronomy, or economics is recommended, often at least three years.
• What is the job market like for farm estate managers in agriculture?
  - Demand is stable with 175 job openings reported in Sweden (2024).
• Are there gender differences in salaries for farm estate managers?
  - Yes, men earn on average 55 500 SEK/month; data for women is limited, but the highest salary for women is 53,000 SEK/month
• What are the biggest challenges in the profession?
  - Staying updated on laws, digitalization, and balancing economic and sustainable goals.
• What benefits are most commonly offered?
  - Company cars, wellness allowances, further training, and sometimes bonuses or flexible hours.
• Can one work internationally as a farm estate manager in agriculture?
  - Yes, especially within larger companies or as a consultant, international opportunities exist.