Agricultural consultant

What does an Agricultural Consultant do? – Tasks and Work Environment

An Agricultural Consultant works by providing advice and support to farmers and companies within the agricultural sector. Tasks often include analyzing cultivation methods, financial planning, environmental issues, and implementing new technology. The consultant acts as a link between practical farming activities and research results or regulatory requirements. Work takes place both in the field, where direct contact with farmers is central, and in offices, where documentation, reporting, and analysis constitute a significant part of daily work. Flexibility and good communication skills are important qualities for success in this role.

Salary Development Over Time

The salary for Agricultural Consultants has developed positively over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 40,300 SEK per month, increasing to 45 200 SEK in 2023 and further to 45 700 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of approximately 13.4% over the period, and a more modest increase of 1.1% in the last year. The trend reflects a growing demand for specialist skills within agriculture and an increased focus on sustainability and efficiency. At the same time, salaries are influenced by budget conditions of both private and public employers, as well as competition for qualified labor within the sector.

Agricultural Consultant Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 45 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,400 SEK/month (woman, privately employed worker)
• Highest salary: 49,300 SEK/month (man, privately employed official)
• Hourly wage: 275 SEK
• Women: 41 300 SEK/month (85% of men's salary)
• Men: 48 700 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Specific data is lacking, but variation exists depending on region and employer.

Education and Qualifications

To work as an Agricultural Consultant, a university degree in agronomy, agricultural sciences, or related fields is usually required. Practical experience from farming or advisory work is highly valued, and additional courses in areas such as environment, economics, or technology can be advantageous. The ability to interpret and implement research and communicate with different target groups are central qualifications.

• Formal degree: University education (3–5 years) in agronomy, agricultural sciences, or similar
• Certifications: Courses in environment, economics, or advisory services can be meritorious
• Internship: Practical experience from farming or advisory work is often sought after
• Prerequisites: Scientific or technical high school education is recommended
• Tips for choosing: Specializing in sustainability and technology provides a competitive edge

Common Benefits and Compensation

Agricultural Consultants often have access to company cars, wellness allowances, and flexible working hours. Additional benefits may include skill development, remote work options, and travel allowances. In some cases, extra vacation days and pension contributions beyond statutory requirements are offered.

Competition and Challenges

The profession of Agricultural Consultant is characterized by competition for the most attractive positions, especially within advisory organizations and larger companies. A challenge is to stay updated on rapid changes in technology, environmental legislation, and market conditions. The limited number of new recruitments means many positions require experience or specialization from the start. At the same time, the role involves balancing independent advice with clients' or commissioning parties' interests, which demands high integrity and analytical skills.

Tips for Aspiring Agricultural Consultants

To succeed as an Agricultural Consultant, it is good to combine strong analytical skills with curiosity about sustainable development and farming challenges. Building a broad network within the industry during your studies gives you an advantage when it comes to internships and future employment. Good communication skills are crucial, as advising requires both sensitivity and pedagogical ability. Being flexible and able to quickly understand new research findings or regulations is also important in this role. The ability to work independently and take initiative is appreciated by employers, while collaboration in projects and interdisciplinary teams is often part of everyday work. Drive and engagement for the development of agriculture ultimately form a key foundation for thriving and making a difference as an Agricultural Consultant.

Key Facts about Agricultural Consultants

• Education level: University degree in agronomy or agricultural sciences (3–5 years)
• Work environment: Alternates between office and field visits
• Work style: Both independent and in project teams
• Demand: 356 job openings within the profession (2024)
• Gender differences: Women earn 85% of men's salaries

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After a few years in the profession, an Agricultural Consultant can advance to specialist roles such as environmental advising, business economics, or project management. Opportunities also exist to become a manager of advisory services or to work internationally with development projects. According to the latest forecast from the Employment Service, no specific assessment has been made for the profession of Agricultural Consultant due to limited data, but there are 356 job openings within the profession. Overall, demand for advisors and specialists in agriculture is considered stable, especially with increased focus on sustainability and technological development.

Frequently Asked Questions about Agricultural Consultants

• What is the average salary of an Agricultural Consultant?
  - An Agricultural Consultant has an average salary of 45 700 SEK per month.
• What is the highest salary for an Agricultural Consultant?
  - The highest salary is 49,300 SEK per month, which applies to a man who is a privately employed official.
• What is the lowest salary for an Agricultural Consultant?
  - The lowest salary is 34,400 SEK per month, which applies to a woman who is a privately employed worker.
• Are there differences between men and women in the profession?
  - Yes, women earn on average 41 300 SEK while men earn 48 700 SEK, meaning women earn 85% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become an Agricultural Consultant?
  - Higher education in agronomy, agricultural sciences, or similar fields is required, often supplemented with practical experience.
• What is the job market like for Agricultural Consultants?
  - There are 356 job openings within the profession, and demand is considered stable.
• What are the most common tasks?
  - Advising farmers, analyzing cultivation methods, financial planning, and implementing new technology.