Agricultural Adviser

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

An Agricultural Advisor functions as a specialist and support for farmers and companies within the agricultural sector. Tasks include analyzing economic and technical conditions, providing advice on crop selection, plant protection, animal husbandry, and environmental issues, as well as developing strategies for increased profitability and sustainability. Advisory work can be conducted both on-site at the client’s location and via digital channels, resulting in a varied work environment with elements of field visits, office work, and meetings. Collaboration with authorities, research institutions, and other advisors is common.

Salary Development Over Time

Over the past three years, salaries for Agricultural Advisors have shown a clear upward trend. In 2022, the average salary was 40,300 SEK per month, which increased to 45 200 SEK in 2023 and further to 45 700 SEK in 2024. The total increase amounts to approximately 13.4% over the three-year period. This development reflects a rising demand for qualified advice in agriculture, while competition for specialist skills has intensified. Inflation adjustments and the industry’s need for sustainability expertise have also contributed to pushing salary levels slightly faster than the average on the labor market.

Agricultural Advisor Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 45 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,400 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, high school education)
• Highest salary: 49,300 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, unspecified education)
• Hourly wage (average): 275 SEK
• Men’s average salary: 48 700 SEK
• Women’s average salary: 41 300 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 85% of what men do

Education and Qualifications

To work as an Agricultural Advisor, a university degree in agronomy, agricultural sciences, or related fields is usually required. Practical experience from farming, as well as knowledge in economics and environmental issues, are often advantageous. The educational path is varied and can be supplemented with certifications or specialized courses depending on the employer’s requirements and the advisor’s focus.

• Formal education: University degree in agronomy, agricultural sciences (3–5 years)
• Certifications: Environmental advising, plant protection, animal husbandry
• Internships: Longer internships or trainee programs are recommended
• Prerequisites: Science or technical high school education
• Specialized courses: Digital advising, sustainability analysis, economics

Common Benefits and Compensation

Agri-advisors are often offered company cars, wellness allowances, and the opportunity for remote work. Other common benefits include further training, occupational pension, and flexible working hours. Bonus programs and performance-based pay are present in some organizations.

Competition and Challenges

The profession of Agricultural Advisor is characterized by high specialization but also some competition, especially in attractive regions and larger advisory organizations. Rapid technological development and increased environmental demands require continuous skill development. Since advising often needs to be adapted to both local and global challenges, the ability to quickly understand new regulations and methods is essential. The industry is also influenced by political decisions and changes in agricultural policy, which can create periods of uncertainty regarding demand. The availability of job openings is stable, but competition for the most qualified roles is noticeable.

Tips for Aspiring Agricultural Advisors

To succeed as an Agricultural Advisor, it’s good to combine analytical skills with practical understanding of everyday farming. A clear interest in sustainability and environmental issues provides an advantage, especially when advising on modern cultivation methods. Being communicative facilitates collaboration with farmers and authorities, and accuracy is crucial when providing economic or technical advice. Flexibility is needed to handle the variation between field visits and office work, while a solution-oriented mindset helps address unexpected challenges. Finally, continuous further education within the latest industry trends is important to remain attractive on the job market.

Key Facts about Agricultural Advisors

• Educational level: University degree (3–5 years) in agronomy or agricultural sciences
• Work environment: Varied between field visits and office work
• Demand: Approximately 360 job openings within the profession in Sweden
• Gender distribution: Men have a higher average salary than women (48 700 SEK vs 41 300 SEK)
• Special skills: Environment, plant protection, digital advising, and economics

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After 3–5 years as an Agricultural Advisor, there are opportunities to advance to senior advisor, specialize in areas such as environment, economics, or technology, or move into managerial roles within advisory services. Some choose to start their own consulting business or work within authorities and research projects. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that there is no precise assessment for this specific role, but there are 360 job openings within the profession, suggesting steady demand. The industry’s increased focus on sustainability and technology is expected to continue driving the need for qualified advisors, although regional variations may occur and competition for the most attractive positions is noticeable.

Common Questions about Agricultural Advisors

• What does an Agricultural Advisor earn?
  - An Agricultural Advisor has an average salary of 45 700 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, region, and employer.
• What education is required to become an Agricultural Advisor?
  - Usually, a university degree in agronomy, agricultural sciences, or related fields is required.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 85% of what men do within the profession.
• What are the job responsibilities of an Agricultural Advisor?
  - Responsibilities include advising on cultivation, animal husbandry, economics, and environmental issues, as well as analyzing farm business operations.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Assessment is lacking for the profession, but there are approximately 360 job openings within the field and steady demand is expected.
• What benefits are common for Agricultural Advisors?
  - Common benefits include company cars, wellness allowances, occupational pension, and remote work options.
• What is the work environment like?
  - The work environment is diverse, including field visits, office work, and collaboration with farmers and authorities.