Barn foreman, 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 daily work on farms with both crop production and animal husbandry. Tasks include planning and supervising work teams, caring for animals, maintaining machinery and buildings, and managing fodder and crop cultivation. The role often involves close collaboration with farm owners and other employees, ensuring a safe work environment and compliance with laws and regulations. The work environment is physically demanding, with outdoor work under varying weather conditions common.

Salary development over time

The salary of a farm manager in mixed operations has changed somewhat in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 26,900 SEK per month, which slightly decreased to 26 700 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the salary increased to 27 600 SEK, corresponding to an approximate increase of 3.4% compared to the previous year. This development can be explained by an increased need for competent supervisors in agriculture and some inflation in society. Despite some variation over time, the profession's salary has generally been stable, although wage increases have not fully kept pace with other industries. Gender differences remain, with men earning more on average than women in the same role.

Farm manager in mixed operations salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 27 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,300 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 50,400 SEK/month (woman, municipal sector, post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage (average): 166 SEK/hour
• Women’s salary as a percentage of men’s: 89%
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and sector, but most jobs are located in rural areas.

Education and qualifications

To work as a farm manager in mixed operations, a high school education in natural resource management is usually required, preferably supplemented with relevant work experience. Many employers also seek specialized skills in animal husbandry, machinery handling, or crop cultivation. Practical experience is often crucial and can weigh equally with formal education during hiring.

• High school education: Natural resource management program, 3 years
• Post-secondary courses: Specializations in animal husbandry, machinery handling, or crop cultivation
• Internship: Work-based learning during education
• Experience: Previous work in agriculture is highly meritorious
• Certifications: Tractor license or other machinery certifications may be required

Common benefits and compensations

Employees working as farm managers in mixed operations often have benefits such as free housing or staff accommodation, per diems when working elsewhere, and access to work clothing and tools. In some cases, wellness allowances and training opportunities are offered to enhance skills within specific areas of agriculture.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a farm manager in mixed operations varies depending on region and season. The profession requires broad skills and a high sense of responsibility, making it difficult to find suitable candidates. Seasonal variations and weather-dependent conditions in agriculture demand flexibility and problem-solving skills. Additionally, work often involves long days and physically demanding tasks, which can be challenging for many. The lack of an official forecast from the Employment Service makes it difficult to give an exact picture of future demand, but the number of available jobs indicates ongoing demand.

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 be proactive and able to make independent decisions in hectic situations. A genuine interest in both animals and crop production facilitates the work and makes it easier to acquire new knowledge. Flexibility is crucial, as tasks can vary greatly depending on season and weather. Good communication skills help in leading teams and interacting with suppliers or customers. Practical experience in agriculture provides a strong foundation and increases the ability to quickly solve problems. Being thorough and responsible is important, especially when handling machinery and animals. Finally, it pays to build a network within the industry, for example through internships or extra work during education.

Key facts about Farm Manager in mixed operations

• Education level: High school education in natural resource management recommended
• Work environment: Physically demanding, outdoor, seasonal
• Work form: Usually full-time employment, sometimes on call
• Demand: 360 job openings in the profession in spring 2024
• Special skills: Experience with both animal husbandry and crop cultivation is an advantage

Career paths and future outlook

After a few years of experience as a farm manager in mixed operations, opportunities open to advance to farm owner or to specialized roles within, for example, animal health, crop production, or machinery maintenance. Some choose to further education in agronomy or land surveying to broaden their skills. The Employment Service indicates that there is no specific forecast for the profession due to limited data, but the number of available jobs shows some ongoing demand. Digitalization and increased mechanization may change tasks and require new technical skills over time. Overall, the need for skilled supervisors in agriculture is expected to remain, especially on larger farms with mixed operations.

Common questions about Farm Manager in mixed operations

• What does a farm manager in mixed operations earn?
  - The average salary is 27 600 SEK per month, but there is significant variation depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What education is required to become a farm manager?
  - A high school education in natural resource management is most common, often combined with practical experience and possible certifications.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn on average 89% of what men do in the profession.
• What is the work environment like?
  - The work environment is often physically demanding and involves a lot of outdoor work under varying conditions.
• What career opportunities are available?
  - After a few years, one can advance to farm owner or specialize in various areas within agriculture.
• What are the future prospects?
  - No official forecast exists, but there are 360 job openings within the profession, indicating ongoing demand.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries in the profession?
  - The highest salary is 50,400 SEK (woman, municipal sector), and the lowest is 25,300 SEK (woman, unspecified education).