Barn manager, farm pets

What does a farm manager in agricultural livestock do? – Tasks and work environment

A farm manager in agricultural livestock is responsible for the operation and care of farm animal herds, such as cows, pigs, or sheep. Tasks include daily supervision, feeding, health checks, breeding planning, documentation, and managing staff at larger farms. The profession is practical and often involves direct contact with animals, demanding good animal knowledge and responsibility. The work environment includes both indoor and outdoor work, with physical tasks and working at inconvenient hours, especially during calving or illness among the animals.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salaries for farm managers in agricultural livestock have shown stable growth. In 2022, the average salary was 27,200 SEK per month, which increased to 28 400 SEK in 2023 and has remained at the same level in 2024. This represents an increase of about 4.4% from 2022 to 2023, but wages have stagnated since. This trend reflects a slight improvement in salary levels, possibly linked to increased demand for skills in the profession and adjustments for inflation, but the market has stabilized afterward. Despite high demand for labor, additional wage increases have not occurred in the past year, possibly due to agricultural economy and competition from other sectors.

Farm manager in agricultural livestock salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 28 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,000 SEK/month (female, private sector, high school education 3 years)
• Highest salary: 32,500 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage (average): 171 SEK
• Men's average salary: 29,700 SEK
• Women's average salary: 27 800 SEK
• Gender gap: Women earn 94% of what men do

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a farm manager in agricultural livestock usually goes via high school natural resources program with specialization in agriculture or animals. Post-secondary education in agriculture, animal husbandry, or leadership can be advantageous, especially for larger farms with supervisory duties. Practical experience is highly valued and often combined with theoretical knowledge through internships or trainee positions.

• High school education: Natural resources program, 3 years
• Post-secondary courses: In agriculture, animal husbandry, or leadership
• Certifications: Animal protection, work environment, and sometimes machinery operator license
• Practice: Long-term internships on farms are common
• Personal qualities: Responsible, problem-solving, team-oriented

Common benefits and compensation

Common benefits within the profession often include staff housing on the farm, work clothing, free meals during work, and certain insurance and wellness allowances. Access to work vehicles or flexible working hours may also be available, especially on smaller farms where tasks are broad.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as a farm manager in agricultural livestock is moderate, as there is a continuous need for competent employees. Challenges include uneven workload, physically demanding tasks, and work during weekends and holidays. The industry is also affected by economic fluctuations and dependence on weather and market prices, which can impact work environment and job security. Recruitment difficulties are common, especially since many work part-time and require high flexibility. High demands are placed on professional skills and engagement to meet the animals' needs year-round.

Tips for those wanting to become a farm manager in agricultural livestock

To succeed as a farm manager in agricultural livestock, it is good to have a strong sense of responsibility and be prepared to work inconvenient hours when animals need extra care. Being problem-solving and able to adapt quickly to new situations is valuable, especially during emergencies. Good teamwork skills facilitate leadership within the team and communication with staff and animal owners. Practical experience from working on farms is a big advantage, so consider internships or summer jobs during your education. Further training in animal health and leadership can open more doors and give you confidence in the role, while genuine care for animals is essential for thriving and developing in the profession.

Key facts about farm managers in agricultural livestock

• Education level: High school education (natural resources), often supplemented with practical experience
• Work environment: Physically demanding, both indoors and outdoors
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment according to the Swedish Public Employment Service
• Gender distribution: Both men and women, some salary differences favoring men
• Work form: Part-time work is common, especially on smaller farms

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a farm manager in agricultural livestock, opportunities include advancing to operations manager, advisor within the agricultural industry, or specializing in animal health and breeding. Some choose to start their own farm or take on greater responsibility within existing operations. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, demand for breeders and caretakers of farm animals remains high and is expected to stay steady over the next five years. Recruitment difficulties are noted, partly because many work part-time. At the beginning of 2024, there were 360 job vacancies in the profession, indicating a stable job market for those with the right skills and commitment.

Frequently asked questions about farm managers in agricultural livestock

• What does a farm manager in agricultural livestock earn?
  - The average salary is 28 400 SEK per month, with variations between 27,000 SEK and 32,500 SEK depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 94% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What education is required to become a farm manager in agricultural livestock?
  - High school education from the natural resources program is most common, preferably supplemented with practical training.
• What is the job market like for the profession?
  - Demand is high and the job market is considered stable over the next five years.
• What are the duties of a farm manager in agricultural livestock?
  - Supervision, feeding, health checks, personnel management, and documentation are central tasks.
• Which qualities are highly valued in the profession?
  - Responsibility, problem-solving skills, and dedication to animals are especially important.
• Are there regional differences in salary?
  - Regional differences may occur, but the average salary nationwide is 28 400 SEK.