Farmers, mixed farming

What does a mixed farm farmer do? – Tasks and work environment

A mixed farm farmer is responsible for both crop cultivation and livestock on the same farm. Tasks vary by season and farm focus but typically include sowing, harvesting, feeding and caring for animals, machinery maintenance, and production planning. The work environment is often physically demanding and involves outdoor work in all weather conditions, with early mornings and sometimes long working hours. Technology and machinery are important tools, but much work is still manual. The job requires great flexibility and the ability to handle unexpected situations, such as weather changes or animal health issues.

Salary development over time

The salary for mixed farm farmers has developed relatively steadily in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 26,900 SEK per month, followed by a slight decrease to 26 700 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the salary has risen to 27 600 SEK, corresponding to an increase of about 3.4% compared to the previous year. The trend shows slow but positive salary growth, which may be due to increased demand for skilled farmers and a greater focus on sustainable production. Variations between years can also be influenced by seasonal changes, labor availability, and economic conditions in the agricultural sector. The relatively low salary growth reflects limited competition for positions and the dependence of the profession on external factors such as weather and market prices.

Comprehensive overview of salaries for mixed farm farmers

• Average salary: 27 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,300 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 50,400 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 166 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 89% of what men do (25,300 SEK compared to 28,500 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data varies, but highest salaries are found in the municipal sector and with post-secondary education

Education and qualifications

To work as a mixed farm farmer, a high school education in natural resource management is generally required, but many supplement with post-secondary courses or practical training. Experience in both crop production and animal husbandry is highly valued, and technical skills related to machinery and environmental regulations are becoming increasingly important. Practical training during education is common and provides valuable industry experience.

• High school education: Natural resource management program, specialization in agriculture (3 years)
• Post-secondary courses: Examples include machinery handling, animal husbandry, or environmental certification
• Internship/trainee: Usually at least 15 weeks of practical training during studies
• Prerequisites: Interest in agriculture, animals, and technology
• Further education: Opportunities for YH (Higher Vocational Education) or university studies, e.g., in land surveying

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to base salary, benefits such as per diems for travel, work clothing, meal allowances, and sometimes housing on the farm are often offered. Opportunities for further training and certifications are available, especially if employed by larger companies or in the municipal sector. Some employers may also offer bonuses based on production results.

Competition and challenges

The profession of a mixed farm farmer is characterized by low competition for available positions, partly because many farmers operate their own businesses rather than being employed. At the same time, challenges are significant: profitability is influenced by weather, market prices, and political decisions regarding the environment and support. Technological development requires continuous skill upgrading and investments, and workdays are often long and physically demanding. An additional challenge is succession, as many farms face ownership changes and recruitment needs.

Tips for those wanting to become a mixed farm farmer

To succeed as a mixed farm farmer, it is good to develop both practical skills and strong problem-solving abilities. Being persistent and flexible helps with unforeseen challenges, such as weather changes or technical problems. A genuine interest in animals and nature is fundamental, as the profession requires year-round engagement. Actively seeking internships and networking with experienced farmers provides valuable insight and can open doors to future employment or collaborations. The ability to take initiative and work independently is essential, while teamwork and communication facilitate cooperation with colleagues and contacts with customers or authorities. Staying updated on new technology and environmental requirements gives a competitive edge and improves the farm's long-term profitability.

Key facts about mixed farm farmers

• Education level: High school education (natural resource management), often supplemented with courses
• Work environment: Physically challenging, outdoor, and seasonal
• Work form: Self-employed or employed on a farm/business
• Demand: 360 job openings in the profession
• Gender distribution: Majority men, women generally have lower salaries

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, many mixed farm farmers have the opportunity to take on greater responsibility on the farm, such as supervisor or running their own business. Specialization in organic production, machinery technology, or farm processing is common. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, there is no specific assessment for the profession due to limited data, but there are currently 360 job openings. Overall, demand is considered stable, especially for those with broad skills and willingness to further educate themselves. Future prospects are influenced by political decisions, technological development, and market demands for sustainability.

Frequently asked questions about mixed farm farmers

• What does a mixed farm farmer earn?
  - The average salary is 27 600 SEK per month, but it can vary depending on education, experience, and sector.
• Are there significant salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 89% of what men do in the profession.
• What education is required to become a mixed farm farmer?
  - High school education in natural resource management is recommended, but further education and practical training are also valuable.
• What is the job market like for mixed farm farmers?
  - There are 360 job openings in the profession, and demand is considered stable.
• What are the biggest challenges in the profession?
  - Profitability is affected by weather, market prices, and technological development; the work environment is physically demanding.
• Can you specialize within the profession?
  - Yes, for example in organic production, machinery technology, or farm processing.
• How high can the salary become for a mixed farm farmer?
  - The highest reported salary is 50,400 SEK per month, for a woman with post-secondary education in the municipal sector.