Consultant, Board of Agriculture

What does a consultant in the agricultural board do? – Tasks and work environment

A consultant in the agricultural board works with advising, investigations, and development within the agricultural sector. The role often involves supporting farmers, companies, and authorities on issues related to farming economy, technology, environment, and sustainability. Tasks also include analyzing legislation, preparing reports, and participating in projects to promote sustainable rural development. The consultant typically has a varied work environment with both office work and field visits, and collaboration with other specialists is a central part of the profession.

Salary development over time

Salaries for consultants within the agricultural board have shown a clear increase in recent years. 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. This represents a total increase of approximately 13.4% over three years. The largest growth occurred between 2022 and 2023, which can be explained by increased demand for specialist advice in agriculture and changing requirements for sustainability and environmental compliance. The salary development has since stabilized but continues to show a slightly positive trend, reflecting the importance of the profession and the skills in demand within the sector.

Consultant, agricultural board salary – comprehensive 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: 275 SEK
• Women: 41 300 SEK/month (85% of men's salary)
• Men: 48 700 SEK/month

Education and qualifications

To work as a consultant in the agricultural board, a higher education in agriculture, agronomy, or related fields is usually required. Practical experience from the agricultural sector is often advantageous, and some employers prefer candidates who have completed specific courses in environment, economics, or project management. The profession demands analytical skills, communication skills, and a good understanding of legislation in natural resource management.

• Formal degree: Bachelor's or master's degree in agronomy, agriculture, or natural resource management (3–5 years)
• Certifications: Courses in environmental and sustainability issues can be advantageous
• Practical experience: Work experience from agriculture or advisory services is highly valued
• Prerequisites: Often science or technical high school education
• Tips for choosing: Focus on specializations in advising, environment, economics, or project management

Common benefits and compensations

Within the profession, it is common to have benefits such as wellness allowances, occupational pension, and flexible working hours. Some employers also offer professional development, training grants, or extra vacation days. Fieldwork may involve per diems and travel allowances, depending on the employer and the nature of the assignment.

Competition and challenges

The job market for consultants within the agricultural board is characterized by limited competition but also a narrow recruitment pool, as positions often require specialized skills and experience. Challenges may include rapid changes in legislation, technology, and environmental requirements, demanding continuous training. Additionally, consultants are expected to handle complex conflicts of interest between environmental considerations and economic goals. Availability of positions can vary by region, and employers often seek candidates with broad and deep subject knowledge.

Tips for aspiring consultants in the agricultural board

To succeed as a consultant in the agricultural board, it is beneficial to have a genuine interest in agricultural development and the ability to analyze complex issues. Being communicative and pedagogical facilitates cooperation with farmers and authorities, while working systematically makes it easier to manage projects and reporting. Flexibility and initiative are important qualities, as the profession often involves varied tasks and field visits. Keeping up-to-date with new legislation and technological innovations in the sector is also advantageous. A tip is to seek internships or summer jobs in advisory services during your studies, as this provides valuable contacts and experience. Networking within industry organizations can also contribute to skill development and new career opportunities.

Key facts about Consultant in the agricultural board

• Education level: Bachelor's or master's degree in agronomy or natural resource management
• Work environment: Varies between office and fieldwork
• Common work form: Specialist and advisory assignments
• Demand: 360 available jobs in 2024
• Gender salary gap: Women earn 85% of men's salaries

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a consultant in the agricultural board, opportunities may open for more qualified advisory roles, project management, or leadership positions within public administration and private consulting firms. Some choose to specialize in environmental issues, sustainable development, or agricultural financing. According to the Employment Service, no separate forecast is made for this profession due to limited data, but within the group “Specialists and advisors in agriculture, etc.” there are 360 available jobs and a continued need for qualified labor is expected. Future prospects are influenced by developments in environmental legislation, technology, and EU support, making expertise in these areas still highly sought after.

Frequently asked questions about Consultant in the agricultural board

• What does a Consultant in the agricultural board earn?
  - A consultant within the agricultural board has an average salary of 45 700 SEK per month in 2024.
• Are there significant salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 41 300 SEK while men earn 48 700 SEK, which corresponds to approximately 85% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a consultant in the agricultural board?
  - Usually, a bachelor's or master's degree in agronomy, agriculture, or related fields is required.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - There are 360 available jobs in the profession, but no separate forecast due to limited data.
• What tasks does a consultant in the agricultural board perform?
  - Tasks include advising, investigations, project management, and field visits within agriculture.
• What is the highest and lowest salary in the profession?
  - The highest salary is 49,300 SEK/month (male), and the lowest is 34,400 SEK/month (female).
• What is the hourly wage for a consultant in the agricultural board?
  - The hourly wage is 275 SEK according to the average for hourly workers.