Barn manager, mixed operation

What does a farm manager in mixed operations do? – Tasks and work environment

A farm manager in mixed operations is responsible for leading and coordinating the farm's activities, which include both animal husbandry and crop cultivation. Tasks involve planning work efforts, monitoring animal health, machinery maintenance, and caring for the cultivated land. The role also requires budgeting, personnel planning, and often close collaboration with others in agriculture, such as advisors and suppliers. The work environment is varied and may involve indoor and outdoor work, often in changing weather conditions, with high demands on flexibility and problem-solving skills.

Salary development over time

The salary for farm managers in mixed operations has shown moderate but stable growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 26,900 SEK, followed by a slight increase to 26 700 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen to 27 600 SEK, corresponding to an increase of about 3.4 % from 2023 to 2024. Salary levels are influenced by factors such as education, experience, employer sector, and regional demand. The limited growth can be attributed to a stable but not expanding labor market, where automation and efficiency improvements in agriculture impact salary levels.

Farm manager in mixed operations salary: comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 27 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,300 SEK/month (female, various sectors, unspecified education)
• Highest salary: 50,400 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage (average): 166 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Men 28,500 SEK, women 25,300 SEK (women earn 89 % of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data varies, but salary levels can be affected by local labor market conditions

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a farm manager in mixed operations often involves completing a natural resource program at the high school level, supplemented with post-secondary studies in agriculture or animal husbandry. Practical experience is essential, as are skills in economics, management, and technology. Many choose to further their education through courses or certifications in animal health, machinery operation, or crop cultivation to strengthen their competence and competitiveness.

• High school education: Natural resource program (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: Vocational college or university (1–3 years, agriculture/animal husbandry)
• Certifications/courses: Animal health, machinery operator certification, work environment
• Practical experience: Practical experience on farms is often required
• Prerequisites: Interest in animals and crop cultivation, technical understanding

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to the base salary, benefits such as work clothing, free meals during work hours, the possibility of staff housing, and sometimes per diems for work in other locations are often offered. Some employers may also provide further training, wellness allowances, or bonuses linked to the farm's results. Security systems such as collective agreements and insurance are common, especially in larger companies or within the municipal sector.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as farm managers in mixed operations varies between regions and depends on farm size and specialization. The shortage of formally educated labor in agriculture can offer good opportunities for qualified applicants, but automation and efficiency improvements are reducing the need for management on smaller farms. The profession requires broad competence and flexibility, and the work environment can be physically demanding with irregular working hours. Technological advances in agriculture necessitate continuous further training to remain competitive.

Tips for those wanting to become a farm manager in mixed operations

To succeed as a farm manager in mixed operations, it is good to combine leadership skills with a genuine interest in animals and crop cultivation. Being organized helps when coordinating many tasks, and problem-solving skills are crucial during emergencies. Early internships to build experience and networks within the industry are recommended, along with staying updated on new techniques and regulations. Communication skills are needed both for leading staff and collaborating with external actors. Finally, resilience is an important trait, as the work often involves long days and physically demanding tasks.

Key facts about farm managers in mixed operations

• Education level: High school and post-secondary education in natural resource programs
• Work environment: Varied, both indoor and outdoor
• Work form: Full-time, often irregular hours
• Demand: 360 job openings within the occupational group
• Special skills: Leadership, animal health, machinery technology

Career paths and future outlook

Career opportunities for a farm manager in mixed operations can include advancing to operations manager, farm supervisor, or starting their own agricultural business. After 3–5 years, it is common to take on greater responsibility for financial planning, staff development, or specializing in areas such as organic production or new technology. According to the Employment Service, no precise forecast exists due to limited data, but the occupational group has 360 available jobs, indicating ongoing demand. Future prospects are influenced by shifts in agriculture, where digitalization and sustainability issues are becoming increasingly important.

Frequently asked questions about farm managers in mixed operations

• What does a farm manager in mixed operations earn?
  - The average salary is 27 600 SEK/month, but it varies depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Men earn an average of 28,500 SEK/month and women 25,300 SEK/month, which means women earn 89 % of men's salary.
• What education is required to become a farm manager?
  - High school education in natural resource programs and preferably post-secondary studies in agriculture or animal husbandry are recommended.
• Are there many job openings for farm managers?
  - There are 360 job openings within the occupational group of crop growers and animal breeders, in mixed operations.
• What tasks are included in the role?
  - Tasks include managing the farm's activities, animal husbandry, crop cultivation, personnel responsibility, and machinery maintenance.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - No exact forecast exists, but demand is influenced by changes in agriculture and technological development.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries?
  - The highest salary is 50,400 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, post-secondary education 3+ years), and the lowest is 25,300 SEK/month (female, various sectors, unspecified education).